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Best Campgrounds near Glastonbury Center, CT

621 Reviews

Connecticut offers established campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of Glastonbury Center. The area includes several family-oriented campgrounds like Waters Edge Family Campground in Lebanon and Markham Meadows in East Hampton, providing options for tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin rentals. Lake Compounce Campground in Bristol and GrandView CampResort in Moodus represent the more developed end of the spectrum, while state parks like Devil's Hopyard offer more rustic experiences.

Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April or May through October, with limited winter camping options. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during summer months. Water and electric hookups are common amenities at private campgrounds, while state park facilities tend to be more basic. Road access is generally good throughout the region, with most campgrounds accessible by standard vehicles. Weather considerations include occasional summer thunderstorms and cooler fall temperatures. According to one visitor, "The campground is peaceful and quiet. Lots of wooded sites available. My only complaint is that our site by the pond had goose feces everywhere."

Family-friendly amenities are a notable feature at several campgrounds in the region. Waters Edge Family Campground receives mixed reviews, with some praising its activities and lake access while others cite cleanliness issues. Several campers highlighted the importance of selecting the right site within a campground to maximize enjoyment. One reviewer noted, "We enjoyed our stay. It was quiet. The salt water pool was clean." For those seeking a more upscale experience, Getaway Machimoodus offers cabin-based glamping with modern amenities. Sites with water access tend to be particularly popular, with several reviews mentioning the value of lakefront or riverside locations. Most campgrounds in the area maintain a balance between natural settings and convenient amenities.

Map showing campgrounds near Glastonbury Center, ConnecticutExplore the Map

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. The Quarry Campground

    5 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"

    9. 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"

    10. GrandView CampResort & Cottages

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

    $30 - $70 / night

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Recent Camping Photos near Glastonbury Center, CT

251 Photos of 155 Glastonbury Center Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Glastonbury Center, CT

621 Reviews of 155 Glastonbury Center Campgrounds

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    Great State Forest Campground

    Austin Hawes (also known as American Legion State Forest/Campground) is a great little place in a beautiful part of the State. They have cabins if you want some of the creature comforts, as well as sites suitable for tents or campers. Have camped here before in tents and a pop up, it's right on the Farmington River, so we have gone tubing down the river, swimming and fishing as well. The bathrooms have showers and flush toilets, there are hiking trails in and near the campground, and stores not too far. Sites vary in size and privacy.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Black Rock State Park Campground

    Nah

    If you want to feel like you are camping in the middle of a lawless low income housing project, this is the place for you. We camped next to a woman with 2 pit bulls, which was surprising, given the "no dogs allowed" rule, and were surrounded by people partying despite the "no alcohol" rule. Teens congregate in the bathroom so they could charge their devices but did not appreciate you being there to use the bathroom they clearly took over, and even though it's 2025, I still prefer no boyfriends hanging out in the women's bathroom. Call me whatever. Used to camp here years ago, clearly it has gone downhill. Park Ranger? What's that?

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Green Falls Campground

    Inexpensive and primitive

    We like Green Falls. Again, it is inexpensive and kinda primitive, but it sure also quiet and a real woods camping environment. Take a hike around the pond, fish and swim in season, and enjoy a laid back approach to your time here.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Mount Misery Campground

    Great spot for no frills camping

    We loved Mt. Misery. We spent $17/night, and we know what to expect at that price point. We stayed during fall foliage season and even though CT has had a drought this year, there were still pretty colors to see. We hiked to the overlook of Mt. Misery and had a great time geocaching and enjoying the trails. We found the campsites to be decent, and a number of them did afford privacy and space, we had 4 people and 3 dogs on our site, and had plenty of room for our travel trailer and 2 tents. We will be back here for sure.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Ten Mile River Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Not a public campground!

    Ten Mile River Shelter and campsite is not a public campground. Sure, anyone can camp there, but it is designated for folks hiking the A.T., whether thru-hikers, section hikers, or whatever. While there are no rules about who can camp there, during thru-hiking season, consideration should be made for folks who rely on places like this during a long distance hike. It is at least a mile if not a mile and a half from approved parking (on the side of the road off the A.T.) to camp, either from the A.T. or a combo of the A.T. and a blue blaze trail (which is easier, imo). There are also no fires allowed on the CT A.T.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Crocker's Boatyard

    Great spot and good communication

    Was in town for the Elvis show. This was minutes from downtown definitely walkable. Will be back again!

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Point Folly Campground

    Great

    I’ve been coming here for decades. Little store has what you need if you can find the shop keeper. Great access to bantam lake. You can leave you canoes/kayaks tied up in the water. Great fishing. Love it overall. The only issue I have is the pit toilets are brutal. If you are tent camping, beware!

  • Phillip H.
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Mystic KOA

    KOA Mystic

    From the first interaction you see this KOA is customer focused. The staff is friendly, professional and helpful. The grounds are well maintained as are the facilities.

  • Christine S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Cozy Hills Campground

    Quiet and clean

    So far it's been pretty quiet but we are here at the beginning of October on a Monday. Nice area.

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).

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