Franklin, Connecticut offers diverse camping opportunities with its mixed forest terrain at 300-500 feet elevation. Located at the edge of the Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor, the area features several rivers and streams with sandy riverbanks that create natural swimming holes throughout the camping region. Most campgrounds remain open from May through October.
What to do
Water recreation: Ross Hill RV Park & Campground provides direct access to the Quinebaug River for fishing and paddling. "The campground is set on the Q River and if you're lucky enough to see it from your site it's beautiful," notes camper Glenn P. Water activities extend beyond just swimming.
Beach exploration: Rocky Neck State Park Campground sits within driving distance of Franklin, offering beach access. "Every site had a central bathhouse and they have a variety of tree covering options for each campers preferences. The campsite is only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails," writes Mauricio R.
Holiday camping: For seasonal celebrations, consider Odetah Camping Resort which runs special events. "We went two years in a row each on Halloween! They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating. Very enjoyable time," shares Brian P.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Witch Meadow Lake Campground maintains well-kept grounds. "The owner of the property takes pride in the campground and it shows. She takes care of the campers. Swimming pool, facilities, small lake as well larger lakes in the surrounding area," reports Pauly P.
Family programming: Brialee Family Campground specializes in organized activities. "Plenty of activities pretty much hourly for kids and adults to enjoy. Along with a pool, they also have a beach and a separate beach for dogs. They provide a store with all the essentials, a game room, laundry room, Rec hall, and multiple bathhouses," explains Mallory P.
Site options: Campers appreciate the range of sites available at campgrounds near Franklin. "Large campground with 3 pools, many amenities and scheduled activities," notes Robert M. about Strawberry Park. Most campgrounds offer a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and yurt camping options.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book early for weekend stays, especially at Hidden Acres Campground which fills quickly during summer months. "Large well established and clean. Great mix of seasonal and vacation campers. Nice river with small beach. Arts and crafts for kids," reports Barbara P.
Privacy levels: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. "The sites are a little close, but with so much to do you don't spend that much time at your site," explains Happy Camper L. about Odetah Camping Resort.
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds in the Franklin area close by mid-October. "Ross Hill Park & Campground operates from April 19 to October 27," while most others follow similar seasonal schedules. Yurt camping near Franklin, Connecticut typically requires advance booking.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Strawberry Park provides numerous recreation options. "When my family went here it poured! And we were thankful that there were so many things to do, painting ceramics, karaoke, an arcade. It is close by to some nice shopping areas as well. Bingo is always a family favorite," says Michelle D.
Water options: Many campgrounds offer multiple swimming venues. "The lake is great!! The pool area is a little small, but the attraction is the lake. The splash area at the pool is great for little kids," notes one reviewer about recreational options.
Wildlife awareness: Be prepared for local wildlife encounters. "Keep food locked up too many skunks!!!" warns Molly V. about Strawberry Park. Most campgrounds provide secure food storage information at check-in.
Tips for RVers
Site selection: Mystic KOA, though further from Franklin, offers varied RV accommodations. "We snagged a late reservation over a busy summer weekend so the place was packed. Our site (Q15) was all grass which was fine with us because the grass was nice and thick. There was no defined pad, instead just hookups to back in next to so you have lots of flexibility as to how you park," explains Nancy W.
Utility considerations: Some campgrounds have limited hookup options. "There was not full service sewer hook up, only gray water. There was a dump station," notes Dave B. about one area campground. Most RV-friendly locations offer 30-amp service, while 50-amp availability varies.
Off-season options: For yurt camping near Franklin, Connecticut during shoulder seasons, verify heating systems in advance. Many campgrounds with yurt options transition to weekend-only operations after Labor Day, with limited staffing.
