Tent camping opportunities near Franklin, Connecticut cluster primarily around the Connecticut River corridor and surrounding woodland preserves. The region features several primitive camping areas accessible via boat, short hikes, or designated drive-in access points. Water access defines many of the camping experiences, with river-facing sites offering opportunities for fishing, paddling and wildlife observation from camp.
What to do
Riverfront paddling access: At Gillette Castle State Park Campground, campers can reach sites on the south end via watercraft, providing direct river access. "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," notes camper Jackie G.
Hiking trail exploration: The best tent camping near Franklin, Connecticut includes access to trail networks connecting camping areas with scenic overlooks and natural features. Chapman Pond Preserve provides trail access to its tent platforms. One camper describes it as a "middle of nowhere site" with "CT river within view."
Wildlife observation: Early morning hours offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities at many riverside camping locations. At River Highlands State Park River Campground, the natural setting supports diverse wildlife. "The campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river," reports Alicia B., though she cautions about encountering wolf spiders in the outhouse.
What campers like
Island isolation: The boat-in requirement for some tent camping sites creates a natural barrier that enhances the wilderness experience. As Jason S. describes about Selden Neck State Park Campground: "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."
Private campsites: Several tent camping options near Franklin provide well-spaced sites for privacy. "There's a few sites close to each other, so it is nice to go with enough people to occupy them all at once to keep it personal," mentions a Gillette Castle State Park Campground reviewer about maintaining privacy.
Scenic water views: Riverside camping spots afford unobstructed views of the Connecticut River, particularly at sunrise and sunset. "At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on. The sunset view was amazing," notes a camper at Selden Neck State Park, highlighting the changing landscape throughout the day.
What you should know
Access restrictions: Many top tent camping destinations near Franklin require specific transportation methods. For Buck Hill Campground, camper Greg R. notes it's "heavily wooded without much else around and very few amenities," making preparation essential.
Primitive facilities: Most riverside camping areas feature basic amenities only. Chapman Pond Preserve offers "good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse," providing essential infrastructure while maintaining a wilderness feel.
Seasonal considerations: Spring flooding can affect riverside camping areas, particularly after heavy rainfall periods. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, sometimes altering shoreline access at popular tent camping spots near Franklin, Connecticut.
Wildlife presence: Natural settings mean wildlife encounters are common. River Highlands campers should note that "the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders," a common occurrence in woodland settings.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety planning: When camping with children at riverfront sites, establish clear boundaries for water access. At Buck Hill Campground, "The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water (including the 'beach')," notes Greg R., but he points out there are no lifeguards.
Group site coordination: For family camping trips, consider reserving adjacent sites when available. "There's a few sites close to each other," notes a Gillette Castle reviewer, making it ideal for family groups wanting proximity while maintaining some separation.
Age-appropriate adventures: Hidden Lake Farm offers "quiet and private" camping with amenities that make tent camping more accessible for families with younger children, including drinking water, showers, and toilets.
Simple activities: River-based camping allows for impromptu water play. One camper at Gillette Castle mentions "You can swim and fish and relax all day!" providing natural entertainment options without complex equipment.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only zones: Most camping areas near Franklin Connecticut cater specifically to tent campers with limited or no RV access. Chapman Pond Preserve and similar sites require walk-in access unsuitable for recreational vehicles.
Limited hookups: Even at locations where drive-in access exists, RVers should note most camping near Franklin focuses on primitive tent experiences without typical RV infrastructure. The tent camping experience is deliberately primitive at most locations, with natural terrain and minimal development.
