RV sites near Gales Ferry, Connecticut provide year-round camping options in the coastal New England region. Located along the Thames River with elevations ranging from 10 to 150 feet above sea level, the area experiences typical northeastern seasonal shifts with humid summers averaging 80°F and winters dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in this region operate from April through October, though select facilities like Aces High RV Park remain open through winter months.
What to do
Kayaking nearby water bodies: At Ross Hill RV Park & Campground, campers can access the Quinebaug River directly from the property. "The campground is set on the Q River and if you're lucky enough to see it from your site it's beautiful," notes Glenn P., who has been camping there for 20 years.
Explore historic Mystic: From Seaport RV Resort, visitors can reach downtown Mystic via bicycle. "My husband and I were able to ride our bikes into town and also took advantage of the camp store and laundry facilities," says Laura L. The location provides easy access to Mystic Seaport Museum and other attractions.
Family-friendly recreation: Strawberry Park offers extensive on-site activities. "Lots of things for kids to do. We watched a magician and played pickle ball on the courts. Kids had fun on the many play grounds," shares Michael C., who appreciated the variety of entertainment options during his stay.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront locations: Premium sites at Aces High RV Park feature concrete pads and patios. "We paid $150/night for a 'Premium Waterfront FHU Site' on the lake. A bit pricey, but really nice site including level concrete pad and patio, clean and well-maintained utilities, and beautiful view," reports Matt S.
Clean facilities: Many campers note the attention to maintenance at campgrounds near Gales Ferry. "The bathrooms and showers are spotless and newly painted. Our site didn't have sewer, but the electric and water were working fine," Pam R. shared about her experience at Seaport RV Resort.
Natural settings with wildlife: The campgrounds around Gales Ferry offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Beautiful pond and natural setting with lots of ducks, geese, chickens, and wild birds," notes Matt S. about Aces High RV Park, highlighting the natural environment that many campers enjoy.
What you should know
Cell service variability: Reception can be inconsistent throughout the region, particularly at more rural campgrounds. "Cell reception is not great. Camp link Wifi for a fee is workable unless you need to do zoom calls," reports Mara S. about Thousand Trails Sturbridge.
Site spacing differences: Campgrounds vary significantly in how close sites are positioned. "Pull through sites also have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors," noted April L. about Aces High RV Park, contrasting with other locations where spacing is tighter.
Management quality impacts: Camper experiences can vary based on staff interactions. "The staff is always friendly and will accommodate you with whatever you need. Don't like your site? Call the office and they will find you one you do like if it's available," explains Glenn P. about Ross Hill RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning for rainy days: Indoor options are important when weather turns wet. "When my family went here it poured! And we were thankful that there were so many things to do, painting ceramics, karaoke, an arcade... Bingo is always a family favorite," Michelle D. shared about Countryside RV Park.
Swimming options: Most family-oriented campgrounds offer water recreation. "My young children LOVE the air pillow, they have spent hours on there. My husband loves playing volleyball in the adult pool," Ryan C. notes about Strawberry Park's multiple swimming areas.
Biking opportunities: Many camping areas near Gales Ferry have safe spaces for children to ride. "The kids ride their bikes to the sports fields, the rec center for the pool and activities," mentions Ryan C., highlighting how Strawberry Park's layout allows for independent exploration.
Tips from RVers
Hookup quality considerations: Full-service RV sites near Gales Ferry Connecticut often include 50-amp electrical service. "Utility hookups were in great condition and everything worked as it should (other parks should come and take a look at how to do this right)," Matt S. commented about Aces High RV Park.
Site leveling: RVers emphasize the importance of level sites in this region. "Site was wide and allowed me to easily back in. Near perfect level," Michael C. noted about his experience at Strawberry Park, avoiding the common frustration of uneven pads.
Dump station access: For RVers without full hookups, knowing dump station availability is crucial. "Two easy dump stations with nice clean area," Michael C. mentioned about Strawberry Park, while other campgrounds like Sun Outdoors Mystic lack on-site sanitary dumps.
