Best Campgrounds near Glastonbury Center, CT

Join the fun near Glastonbury Center. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Connecticut camping has to offer. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

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Best Camping Sites Near Glastonbury Center, Connecticut (155)

    1. Lake Compounce Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bristol, CT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 583-3300

    "Affiliated with Lake Compounce Amusement Park adjacent to campground."

    "It is adjacent to an amusement park so there were lots of families here. None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out."

    2. Waters Edge Family Campground

    10 Reviews
    Amston, CT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 642-7470

    $45 - $100 / night

    "We’ve been to campgrounds with playgrounds worse than the waters edge dog park."

    "This is our families favorite camping location. On the pond at Waters Edge. When asked where they want to camp my 5 and 7 year old will always respond with Waters Edge."

    3. River Highlands State Park River Campground

    1 Review
    Cromwell, CT
    6 miles
    +1 (203) 287-5658

    $5 / night

    "We only visited for the day and left around dawn, but the campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river."

    4. Wilderness Lake Park

    14 Reviews
    Willington, CT
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 684-6352

    $70 / night

    "Connecticut is LACKING when it comes to outdoor activities when compared to some of the places around the country."

    "It’s a dog friendly park which was good for us, our dog could swim in the lake with us. Cute patio overlooking the lake as well with seating."

    5. Markham Meadows

    2 Reviews
    North Westchester, CT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 267-9738

    6. Hammonasset State Park Campground

    39 Reviews
    Clinton, CT
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (203) 245-1817

    $20 - $70 / night

    "Beautiful Connecticut beach sits just steps away from your campsite. Well kept showers and bathrooms are abundant and the camp store has the majority of what you need."

    "   I had a hankering for East Coast seafood, so I picked Hammonesett Beach State Park for Connecticut. Our 2nd state of 5.

        Hammonesett Beach has a huge campground."

    7. Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Salem, CT
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 526-2336

    $14 / night

    "There are trails behind the sites along a large marsh. The wildlife was incredible, a beaver family family lives in the marsh so every night around 10 they would be up splashing around loudly."

    "The sites are very open, not wooded so you have little privacy from adjacent sites."

    8. Wolf's Den Family Campground

    7 Reviews
    Hadlyme, CT
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 873-9681

    "This place is off Route 9 in Connecticut on the east side of the Connecticut River (major RT 9 highway is on west side)."

    "Nice camp ground in the woods near hadlyme"

    9. The Quarry Campground

    4 Reviews
    Tolland, CT
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 875-8325

    $45 - $68 / night

    "We came to discover new bike trails and this one was close to the Hop bike trail which we enjoyed very much"

    10. GrandView CampResort & Cottages

    2 Reviews
    Moodus, CT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 873-3332

    $30 - $70 / night

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Recent Reviews near Glastonbury Center, CT

610 Reviews of 155 Glastonbury Center Campgrounds


  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Gentiles Campground

    Nice place to stay

    Quiet CG near Waterbury CT. Close to major stores for resupply. CG has lots of friendly seasonal campers and lots of other sites. Most sites seem pretty level, but there are some steep roads in the CG. There is an airport next to CG, but it is for single engine private planes only so not a problem. Not by a major road so little traffic noise. I would stay here again.

  • Nicole G.
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Tolland State Forest Campground

    Great Lakeside Campground

    This was only my second camping trip ever (and first tent camping) so grain of salt here - We had a great time at Tolland. The site was spacious and equipped with a bear box, fire ring, and picnic table. The ground at the site was large gravel which was not great in the tent, but walking around it looks like most sites are more dirt and pine needles.

    The swimming area is small but sandy, great for kids, and my daughter loved thethe campfire and nature talk given on Saturday night by park staff.

  • j
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Crocker's Boatyard

    Great!

    Great spot with view of harbor, a pool, bathroom and power if needed. Easy to book, good location- near many places of interest.

  • Snooz H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Niantic KOA

    I mean wow!!

    So much going on! They will give free shuttle rides to 3 beaches & downtown Niantic, CT.

    We had tried to get a deluxe location and not completely booked. This is the weekend before Labor Day and they were vanishing point the owner / shuttle driver, John, asked us if we would want to move on Sunday after a bunch of people moved out. And we said absolutely because we're going to be here for 3 more nights.

    And it is huge and amazing! If you want to pay a little extra for the deluxe request slot 92!

  • Mike W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Cozy Hills Campground

    First time here

    Nice facility, friendly staff. They pack us in pretty tight in some sites.

  • Jim R.
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Indian Ranch Campground

    Live Music, Lake Views, and Laid-Back Vibes—One of Our Favorite Campgrounds

    We ended up at Indian Ranch Campground after leaving another local campground under less-than-ideal circumstances… and honestly, it turned out to be one of the best accidental discoveries we’ve ever made.

    From the moment we arrived, the energy here was completely different—welcoming, relaxed, and full of life. The campground is beautifully laid out with well-kept sites, plenty of trees, and easy access to Webster Lake(aka Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg—yes, really).

    🎶 The concerts? Incredible. Being able to walk from our campsite to watch national music acts perform live at the Indian Ranch Amphitheater is a game-changer. It’s like a music festival that doesn’t require you to sleep in a muddy field. Huge bonus for music lovers!

    🛺 Golf cart rentals make exploring the campground easy and fun, especially if you're hauling chairs, coolers, or just want to cruise around and enjoy the views.

    🏊‍♂️ The pool is clean and inviting—perfect for relaxing after a show or just enjoying a sunny afternoon.

    🌅 The lake itself is stunning, with spots to sit and watch the boats, fish, or just take in the view. The vibe is very“lake life meets concert culture,” and it works perfectly.

    🍔 There’s also an on-site restaurant inside the gates with great food, cold drinks, and a laid-back patio atmosphere that completes the experience.

    🤝 The people here? Fantastic. Campers were friendly, staff was helpful, and there was an overall sense of community that you just don’t get at every park. In Summary: Awesome mix of camping+ concerts Clean facilities, full hookups, and spacious sites Golf cart rentals= a must! Pool, lake, and great food on-site Walkable access to live shows= chef’s kiss🎶 We stumbled in… and didn’t want to leave If you're looking for more than just a campsite—if you want an experience—this is it. We'll be back. Probably more than once.

  • Jim R.
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Douglas Forest RV Resort

    Please—Do Your Homework Before You Stay Here

    I wish I wasn’t writing this.

    Truly. But if sharing our experience helps even one person avoid the same mistake, then it’s worth it.

    We booked two full weeks at Douglas Forest RV Resort, drawn in by its wooded setting and supposed family-friendly charm. The photos looked peaceful. The location sounded perfect. But within hours of arrival, we realized we had walked into something completely different.

    Almost immediately, we witnessed aggressive, disturbing behavior—adults yelling and chasing children through the park. At one point, a child was literally being pursued by a vehicle. In a campground. On the roads where people walk, dogs are walked, and kids ride bikes. We were shocked. We kept expecting someone from staff to step in—but no one did. When we brought it up to another guest, they just nodded and said,“Yeah… it’s always like this.” Turns out, management is known to overlook certain behavior from“regulars.”

    As we walked the grounds, we also noticed**several people clearly living out of tents—**not camping, not weekend warriors, but living there long-term. It gave the entire campground an uneasy, off-kilter feel. The line between traveler and transient is not well-maintained here, and it adds to the overall lack of safety and structure.

    We were ready to leave that night, but with tight, poorly lit roads, towing out after dark just wasn’t safe. So we locked up, barely slept, and pulled out at first light. We had paid for 14 nights. We stayed one. And we didn’t ask for a refund—because honestly, we just wanted out.

    And yes, we later discovered that many of the glowing reviews online were written by someone who works at the campground. That’s not just misleading—it’s reckless. Campers rely on those reviews to make informed choices.

    Douglas Forest RV Resort could be something special, but it’s not. Not right now. Not while safety is ignored, accountability is non-existent, and some guests are clearly treated as untouchable. Please, do your homework before booking here.

    We wish we had—just one day earlier.

  • Glenn M.
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Douglas Forest RV Resort

    Reviews seem to be disappearing for this property.

    Mixed Experience- Potential Hindered by Operational Issues

    The new ownership appears committed to improvements, though the focus seems more on revenue generation than guest experience at this time. 

    Infrastructure Concerns: The electrical system needs significant attention. Multiple RVs share single pedestals, and we observed exposed wire connections and pest issues at electrical boxes. Power fluctuations are common during warm weather, causing frequent breaker trips. The road system requires maintenance- while some fresh gravel has been applied, many intersections remain challenging for larger trailers due to poor grading and poorly placed boulders. 

    Accommodations& Atmosphere: This is primarily a seasonal/long-term resident park rather than a traditional camping resort. The site composition includes many permanent residents, which creates more of a residential community feel. For those seeking a transient camping experience, this may not align with expectations.

    Facilities: The pool is well-maintained and enjoyable. However, other amenities need attention- the playground equipment shows its age, and laundry facilities, while clean, have mechanical reliability issues. Currently, only one restroom facility is fully operational, with others being gradually brought online.

    Accessibility: Most sites feature loose gravel surfaces that may present challenges for guests with mobility equipment. The playground uses mulch surfacing, which may also limit accessibility.

    Management: Communication with management regarding concerns can be challenging, and families should be prepared for a more relaxed supervision environment.

    Bottom Line: While the location has natural beauty and potential, current operational challenges and pricing don't align well with the amenity level provided. Those seeking a quiet, well-maintained camping experience might find better value elsewhere until improvements are completed. Positive reviews seem to be coming from investors of the campground or people with personal interest.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    The Quarry Campground

    Lots of Amenities

    The Quarry has something for everyone. Swimming, fishing, hiking, seasonal, daily, full hookups or tenting. Lots of pull throughs!


Guide to Glastonbury Center

Camping near Glastonbury Center, Connecticut, offers a mix of beautiful nature and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and sand at Hammonasset State Park Campground. It's just a short walk to the beach, and you can swim or play in the waves. One camper mentioned, "The beach was popular," making it a great spot for families.
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails at George Washington State Campground. A reviewer noted, "The hiking trails and views of the lake" are a highlight, perfect for those who love the outdoors.
  • Fishing and Snorkeling: At Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground, you can fish or snorkel. One visitor shared, "Had a great time, did some snorkeling & fishing!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms at Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground. A reviewer said, "Bathrooms are very nice," which is a big plus for families.
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Hammonasset State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Sites range from larger and grassy to smaller and a little more rocky," giving options for different preferences.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The lively environment at Hammonasset State Park Campground is a hit with families. A visitor noted, "This is a fun campground for families," highlighting the active vibe.

What you should know:

  • No Pets Allowed: If you're bringing a furry friend, be aware that Hammonasset State Park Campground does not allow pets. A camper pointed out, "NO PETS! Including dogs."
  • Booking in Advance: Popular spots like Mystic KOA fill up quickly, especially during peak season. One family advised, "If you are looking for a site it’s best to book far in advance."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Rocky Neck State Park Campground mentioned, "Overnight noise was an issue," so plan accordingly if you're sensitive to sound.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with activities for children. Mystic KOA offers daily activities that keep kids entertained. One parent said, "The entire place is completely geared to families."
  • Safety First: Be cautious of traffic in campgrounds like Pine Acres Family Camping Resort. A reviewer warned, "Not safe for little ones as there is too much traffic."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring your own fire pit or rent one at Hammonasset State Park Campground. One camper noted, "You need to either bring your own fire pit or rent one from the store."

Tips from RVers:

  • Site Selection: Choose sites wisely at George Washington State Campground. A reviewer suggested, "My advice is to book the back section if you're a big Class A with a toad."
  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A camper at Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground mentioned, "Water pressure was @ 50 psi," which is good to know for RVers.
  • Be Prepared for Uneven Terrain: Some sites may be uneven, as noted by a visitor at George Washington State Campground. They said, "The site we chose is very uneven so leveling the RV wasn't real easy."

Camping near Glastonbury Center, Connecticut, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Glastonbury Center campgrounds?

Campgrounds near Glastonbury Center offer a range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Hammonasset State Park Campground provides well-maintained showers and bathrooms, a fully-stocked camp store, and easy access to beaches, playgrounds, and local shops. At Mystic KOA, you'll find amenities like swimming pools, on-site facilities, a camp store, and organized activities. Many campgrounds in the area offer water access, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Some private campgrounds like Waters Edge and GrandView CampResort feature additional amenities such as laundry facilities, Wi-Fi access, and recreational areas for various outdoor activities.

Where are the best camping sites near Glastonbury Center?

Several excellent camping options are located within a short drive of Glastonbury Center. Rocky Neck State Park Campground offers sites along Long Island Sound with beach access and bath houses nearby. For a family-friendly experience, Wolf's Den Family Campground provides easy access to local attractions like Gillette Castle and the Goodspeed Opera House. Both campgrounds are within 30-45 minutes of Glastonbury Center. Other nearby options include Devil's Hopyard State Park, Markham Meadows, and GrandView CampResort, all offering varying levels of amenities and outdoor experiences within a reasonable driving distance.

Is tent camping allowed in Glastonbury Center?

Yes, tent camping is available near Glastonbury Center at several campgrounds. Wilderness Lake Park offers excellent secluded tent sites despite being about 60% RVs. The hosts are known for accommodating tent campers with private spots. Hopeville Pond State Park Campground welcomes tent campers with sites that provide access to swimming, fishing, hiking, and picnicking opportunities. Most state parks in the region, including Devil's Hopyard and Kettletown, also allow tent camping with varying levels of privacy and amenities. Always check reservation requirements, as many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (May-September).