RV camping near Georgetown, Connecticut offers access to regional parks spanning the coastal Connecticut and Hudson Valley areas. The terrain varies from gently rolling woodlands to shoreline settings with elevation changes of 100-300 feet throughout the region. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October, though Black Bear RV Park remains open year-round with full hookups for winter camping.
What to do
Beach access during off-season: Lake Compounce Campground keeps their beach open for campers. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," notes a visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds near the campgrounds provide fishing options. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, "there is another lake and two ponds that our neighbor campers said were great for catching panfish - one fisherman said he had caught several bass weighing over 3 pounds!!"
Historical sites: The area serves as a good base for historical exploration. Visitors at Interlake RV Park & Campground mentioned it's "close to FDR home and library...a must to see. Quaint towns nearby."
Hudson River views: Several parks offer access to river scenery. "MetroNorth takes you right into Cold Spring, a charming, quaint town with antique shops and beautiful views of the Hudson. From there, it is a short drive to the campgrounds at Fahnestock."
What campers like
City skyline views: From Liberty Harbor RV Park, campers appreciate urban scenery. "Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," one camper noted, while another mentioned they "can walk to get food up the street, short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline."
Site variety: Campgrounds offer diverse site layouts. At Beaver Pond Campground, "All sites were so different. There was a storm the night before our arrival date, all campers were evacuated and they did a fantastic job clearing all the debris and downed trees before our arrival."
Platform tent sites: Some campgrounds feature raised sites. "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay," reported one Beaver Pond camper.
Recreational activities: On-site entertainment keeps families busy. One camper at Kettletown State Park Campground shared: "The reason why I said that place is perfect kids? It has a huge land of campsite that the kids can run around until their energy out for the night! Plus you would see awesome stars during the nighttime!"
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Animals are active in the camping areas. At Kettletown State Park, one camper advised: "One thing that I have to say to watch out for raccoons and skunk, they love to find food. :) be sure put foods in the car!"
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility quality differs between parks. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, "I do feel the campground bathhouse really needed more attention... while it had clearly been painted this past year, it was very 'buggy' - and did not appear to have been thoroughly cleaned since spring."
Off-season operations: Campground services change seasonally. One winter visitor to Black Bear RV Park reported: "None of their amenities/buildings were open. We arrived after 8pm but I had called ahead to confirm our reservation. Everything is handled no-contact so there is no paper work to sign or pick up."
Noise levels fluctuate: Some parks get busy during peak times. A ranger noted about Fahnestock State Park: "Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!"
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Each campground has better locations for groups. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site. This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance."
Fall activities: Autumn offers special options near campgrounds. "We make a habit of going during the end-of-summer/fall when you can watch the leaves change along the hiking trails, go apple and pumpkin picking near the campsites, and eat some scrumptious apple cinnamon doughnuts and drink pumpkin hot chocolate."
Public transportation access: Some campgrounds are accessible without cars. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, one camper "Came in on MetroNorth from NYC then took a pre-arranged taxi ($25 flat rate) to the campground. Check-in was fast at the registration desk, and they sold bundles of wood for $6."
Bug preparation: Insect protection is essential. One visitor warned: "We were there in early June, and were almost eaten alive by mosquitoes when we ventured into the woods. Take lots of bug spray and wear long sleeves/pants, even in the summer. I promise your stay will be more fun that way."
Tips from RVers
Urban camping convenience: For RVers visiting New York City, Liberty Harbor offers unique benefits. "If you are looking for a place to crash and hit up the city or Liberty Island, this place is great. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."
Winter hookup issues: Cold weather campers should check water availability. A winter visitor to Black Bear RV Park reported: "Unfortunately at this site, the heated water pipe was broken so we had no water for the night... some sites might not have working water and staff could be difficult to get in touch with after hours."
Site spacing considerations: RV site layouts vary between parks. At Lake Compounce Campground, "The sites were long so even though you face your neighbor, the sites were long enough that our door wasn't directly across from our neighbor."
Site leveling needs: Check ground conditions before setting up. A visitor to Totoket Valley RV Park mentioned: "Small campground with good electrical, clean water, sewer and a friendly owner. Each site has grass and a picnic table."
