Tent camping near Enfield, Connecticut offers diverse options within a 30-mile radius, including both free primitive sites and fee-based established campgrounds. The region features rolling hills and river valleys with elevations ranging from 150 to 600 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F during daytime hours. Most sites have fire restrictions during dry periods from July through September.
What to do
Paddle the Connecticut River: Access boat-in campsites at Selden Neck State Park Campground where the entire camping experience revolves around water access. "Selden Neck State Park is an island in the Connecticut River with no roads or development other than 4 campsites. You have to kayak or boat in. There's a boat launch across from the island on the west side of the river at Deep River Landing where you can leave your car," explains camper Jason S.
Explore hiking trails: Many campgrounds connect to trail networks. At Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground, campers enjoy woodland walks directly from their sites. A recent visitor noted, "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean."
Visit Gillette Castle: When staying at tent sites near the Connecticut River, take a day trip to this historic landmark. "Great place for a hike or a picnic. Castle has tours at certain times," reports Todd J. about the activities available at Gillette Castle State Park.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many tent campers appreciate the isolation available at campgrounds like Hidden Lake Farm. With only 5 designated tent sites, it offers a quiet experience away from crowds. Ashley F. describes it as "Quiet and Private."
Riverside camping views: The Connecticut River provides scenic backdrop for many campsites. Jackie G. shares about camping near Gillette Castle State Park Campground: "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. It is amazing with the views of the CT River and being able to watch the sunrise and sunset."
Simple amenities: The best tent camping near Enfield includes basic facilities without excessive development. Campers at Chapman Pond Preserve appreciate this balance, with one noting, "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view. Good site."
What you should know
Access restrictions: Many prime tent sites require hiking or boating to reach them. Ricky H. reports about Onion Mountain Park: "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis. Other posts claim you can park right the site, but you can not. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take."
Limited water availability: Bring your own drinking water to most sites. Few campgrounds offer potable water directly at tent sites, and some have no water facilities at all.
Weather considerations: Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly in this region. Tent sites near rivers may experience morning fog, affecting visibility and departure times. One Selden Neck camper noted, "In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early. But it burned off before long and we headed back."
Tips for camping with families
Choose car-accessible sites: For camping with young children, select locations where vehicles park close to tent areas. Marshall S. from Onion Mountain Park shares: "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it so no need for a bear bag."
Watch for wildlife: Natural tent camping areas near Enfield harbor various creatures. Alicia B. warns about River Highlands State Park River Campground: "We only visited for the day and left around dawn, but the campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river. As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Plan for bathroom logistics: Most primitive tent sites have limited or no toilet facilities. Sites with outhouses may be a considerable distance from some camping spots. Consider bringing portable toilet options for young children.
Tips from RVers
Consider alternative accommodations: Some camping areas near Enfield offer unique lodging options beyond traditional tent sites. At Chester Railway Station, campers can experience something different: "It is a really fun place to spend a night, especially for a train enthusiast. The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too. You hear the trains running at night. Very clean and comfortable."
Focus on tent-specific areas: Many campgrounds near Enfield prioritize tent camping rather than RV facilities. This means quieter sites without generator noise but also fewer hookups or amenities RVers might expect.
