Camping near Gilman, Connecticut offers diverse options in the forested northeast region where the elevation ranges from 200-400 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with warm summers averaging 80°F and fall temperatures dropping to 50-60°F from September through October. Most campgrounds maintain operating seasons from May through mid-October with limited off-season availability.
What to do
Fishing at multiple locations: Several campgrounds near Gilman feature pond and river fishing opportunities. At Hidden Acres Campground, visitors can "tube down river, fish the pond, swim in the pool" according to Erik M., who appreciated the natural setting. The campground combines water recreation with traditional camping.
Halloween weekend events: October camping offers seasonal festivities at several locations. Brian P. noted about Odetah Camping Resort, "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." These themed weekends extend the camping season with family-oriented activities.
Hiking trails access: Rocky Neck State Park Campground connects to coastal paths with Matt R. noting about Niantic KOA, "Nice that you can walk to the trails/beach and Rocky Neck." The interconnected trail systems allow campers to explore woodland and shoreline terrain without relocating their vehicles.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards receive consistent positive reviews across multiple campgrounds. Matt O. commented about Odetah Camping Resort: "Clean facilities. Great staff. New pool and hot tub. Will definitely come back." The cleanliness factor ranks high among repeat visitors.
Family-oriented activities: Organized recreation for various age groups creates structured entertainment options. Anne M. noted, "There is lots to do at the campground especially for kids. Each weekend has a big schedule of events- farmers' market, themed activities and a band." This atmosphere provides built-in entertainment beyond self-directed activities.
Lake swimming alternatives: Sunfox Campground offers water recreation beyond standard beach access. David P. mentioned, "Super clean, friendly environment very nice playground and pool plus a nice lake to swim and fish in." The combination of pool and natural water features provides options regardless of weather conditions.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Campgrounds in the area differ in how close sites are placed together. Dana C. noted about Odetah Camping Resort, "The only con is the sites are not very private...at all." This layout creates a more social camping experience but limits solitude.
Bathroom facilities differ by location: Rocky Neck State Park Campground receives mixed reviews on facilities. Nita D. observed, "Bathhouses and toilets were not as cleaned as I would have liked but passable. Coronavirus social distancing required." Expectations should align with the type of campground chosen.
Weekend versus weekday experiences: Occupancy levels impact the overall atmosphere. Andrew P. commented about Burlingame State Park, "Hundreds of sites, some level some not, some dirt sites, some grassy, some with a ton of shade, some out in the open, excellent for bikes." Timing visits around peak periods affects site selection options.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kids' areas: Campgrounds with multiple play zones accommodate different age groups. Tara N. stated about Sunfox Campground, "They have a beautiful pool, playground and a large jumping pillow like a huge trampoline you can't fall off of." These designated recreational areas provide supervised activity spaces.
Consider seasonal programming: Strawberry Park organizes structured activities throughout the camping season. Ryan C. shared, "There are seasonal and weekenders alike. 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." Year-round events vary by season and holiday weekends.
Check for rainy day options: Indoor alternatives maintain the camping experience during inclement weather. Michelle D. recalled, "When my family went here it poured! And we were thankful that there were so many things to do, painting ceramics, karaoke, an arcade." Confirming bad-weather contingencies prevents disappointing trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters for larger units: Campground layouts may limit access for extended vehicles. Kevin J. advised about Wolf's Den Family Campground, "Really long or tall RV will need to stay close to the front of the campground, as typical older campground is not designed for 40 foot long or 10 foot high campers." Confirming site dimensions before booking prevents access issues.
Dump station availability varies: Onsite services differ by location with varying convenience levels. Jeremy G. noted about Wolf's Den, "Honey wagon available. Grey dump at site. Power and water at every site. 50x30 sites common." Understanding the waste management options factors into longer stays planning.
Consider connectivity needs: Cell service and internet access fluctuate throughout the region. Jeremy G. also reported, "Verizon LTE 1 bar" at Wolf's Den, indicating limited connectivity. Confirming service availability prevents unexpected disconnection if remote work or contact accessibility matters.
