Camping sites near Greenwich, Connecticut offer opportunities for outdoor recreation across three states within a 50-mile radius. The region sits at the intersection of Long Island Sound and the Hudson River Valley, with elevations ranging from sea level to 1,300 feet at nearby mountain peaks. Most campgrounds in the area operate in hardwood forests dominated by oak, maple, and hickory trees, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences.
What to do
Hiking trails and water activities: Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park provides access to numerous trails, lakes, and outdoor activities about 30 miles from Greenwich. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," notes one camper about the convenient amenities.
Swimming in natural settings: Lake swimming options exist at several parks within driving distance of Greenwich. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," writes a visitor to Sebago Cabin Camp, which offers cabin rentals with outside grills and picnic areas.
Local wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds host diverse wildlife that visitors can observe during their stay. "Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint. Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change," reports a camper about their experience at Beaver Pond Campground.
What campers like
Platform camping options: Several area campgrounds offer raised platforms for tent setup. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," explains a regular visitor.
Lean-to shelters: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation features unique shelter options popular with campers. "This is a really great place to camp. The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well," reports one camper who appreciates this alternative to traditional tent camping.
Off-season tranquility: Visiting during non-peak times offers a different experience. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great."
What you should know
Campsite reservations: Most campgrounds require advance booking during peak season. "It's a good site to do a quick camping trip. Dogs are welcome on a leash. This is a good site to do a quick camping trip," notes a visitor about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, which requires in-person bookings.
Wildlife precautions: Bears and other wildlife frequent many campgrounds in the region. "Welcome to Bear Mountain grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground," recalls a visitor to Beaver Pond Campground, highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Seasonal limitations: Many facilities and amenities have limited availability outside summer months. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful. Great hikes," explains a camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible camping options: Several campgrounds offer facilities specifically designed for children and families. "Gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper," notes a visitor to Croton Point Park, which provides tent, RV, and cabin camping.
Varied site privacy levels: Family camping experiences differ widely based on site selection. "This park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals," shares a camper about Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Group-friendly locations: Some campgrounds specifically accommodate larger family gatherings. "Stayed three nights and had an amazing time, super cozy by the fire in our shelter and our site was minutes from some amazing trails. Plenty of space at each shelter site and they have a lovely staff," reports a visitor to Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with amenities vary significantly across the region. "It's a great park with a nice 7 mile loop around the lake with decent fishing. Lots of horses and dogs on the trail. 30 or so sites around a central public restroom," explains a visitor to Blydenburgh County Park on Long Island.
Site spacing considerations: RV campers note significant differences in site layouts. "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together," comments a visitor about Croton Point Park, where the tent sites are located in a separate area from RVs.
Non-peak visitation benefits: RVers recommend considering off-season or weekday visits. "We would only consider staying here again during the off-season months when the campground isn't busy," advises an RVer about regional campgrounds, noting the significant difference in crowd levels and noise.
