Gales Ferry camping options extend beyond the immediate vicinity, with prime locations within 10-30 miles offering diverse outdoor experiences. Coastal Connecticut's camping season typically runs April through October, with most state park campgrounds closing by mid-October. Temperatures range from mid-60s in spring and fall to upper 80s in summer with moderate humidity and occasional rain showers affecting camping conditions.
What to do
Waterfall viewing: 5-minute hike from Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground leads to Chapman Falls. "Across the street from the campground is a trail to Chapman Falls, which will take less than 10 minutes to hike to, but it's a pretty waterfall," notes camper Ryan A.
Kayak launch access: While popular at several area campgrounds, prepare for logistics. At Rocky Neck State Park, "Anyone with kayaks can't easily get to boat launch. It's 4-5 miles by car at 4 mile river boat launch," explains camper Nita D.
Marina camping experience: Crocker's Boatyard in New London offers unique boat-watching opportunities. "Loved watching the boats being moved into the water. Close to everything we wanted to see in New London," reports Jody R., who appreciated the maritime setting despite noting "heavy traffic on the street but quieted down at night."
Block Island ferry day trip: Some campgrounds offer excellent access to ferry service. "We took the ferry to Block Island which was also walking distance from the boat yard. Block Island a must see," shares James G. who stayed at Crocker's Boatyard.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Site selection impacts experience significantly. At Burlingame State Park, Jessica A. notes, "Spacious - even with all those sites, there's plenty of room between sites and tons of open space for kids to run around, fly a kite, play tag, hide and seek."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds feature active wildlife. At Devil's Hopyard, Shannon B. reports, "The wildlife was incredible, a beaver family lives in the marsh so every night around 10 they would be up splashing around loudly."
Pool facilities: Several area campgrounds feature pools as primary amenities. At Strawberry Park, camper Ryan C. appreciates "the aqua robins every day. I also appreciate the rec staff. They always have a smile and they change the schedule when it rains to rainy day activities."
Site variety: Campgrounds near Gales Ferry offer diverse site types. At Odetah Camping Resort, Anne M. reports, "Most sites are even and good sized," while Dana C. notes a trade-off: "The only con is the sites are not very private...at all."
What you should know
Tick awareness: Ticks are prevalent in Connecticut woods. At Devil's Hopyard, one camper warns, "Be very careful with ticks, there were tons of them under our picnic table and by the campfire. Our 2 nights we found over 25 ticks, mostly from sitting at the table when we first arrived."
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facility cleanliness differs significantly between campgrounds. At Burlingame State Park, a visitor cautions, "Bath houses - are usually pretty filthy, and that's because there are too many people per bath house, and people are gross."
Holiday weekend crowds: Many campgrounds become extremely busy during peak times. Jessica A. advises about Burlingame: "On the weekends people can get out of hand with the partying and it's not uncommon to have to listen to noise late into the night. Do not come on a holiday weekend, it's packed."
Limited water access: Some campgrounds require bringing your own water. At Devil's Hopyard, Jean C. notes, "Water is not provided due to contamination, you'll need to bring your own."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused resorts: Mystic KOA provides extensive children's amenities. "This KOA provides a lot to do for kids and families. The pool is small and usually crowded, but still very well kept. And then there's mini golf, hay rides, and lots of fun planned activities," reports Cynthia K.
Swimming options: Pond swimming provides natural alternatives to pools. Jessica A. notes that at Burlingame State Park, you can "Swim in the pond. Fish in the pond (catch and release). Bike. Hike. Hammock."
Organized programs: Many campgrounds schedule regular activities. "Bingo every night, and more activities than you could possibly do!!! The kids ride their bikes to the sports fields, the rec center for the pool and activities," shares Ryan C. about Strawberry Park.
Noise considerations: Location within campgrounds impacts noise exposure. At Mystic KOA, Cynthia K. advises, "You can hear the highway very well at night, particularly in the safari field."
Tips from RVers
Campsite pad quality: Sun Outdoors Mystic (formerly Seaport RV Resort) offers buddy sites for traveling companions. Nancy W. explains, "Our stay was in the spring before their busy season started so some things like the pool and water features were closed but the appearance was that it was well cared for and was a very popular attraction for families."
Site hookup variations: Full hookup availability differs between campgrounds. At Aces High RV Park, April L. notes "Well organized campground with both water front back in sites as well as large pull throughs. All sites but one (#67) are full hook up."
Rig size limitations: RV length matters when choosing campgrounds. Mauricio R. mentions that Rocky Neck has "a variety of tree covering options for each campers preferences," which can impact larger rigs.
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds operate seasonally, closing by November. Steve K. notes one exception: "Aces High RV Park is open year round," making it one of the few winter camping options near Gales Ferry.
