The region surrounding Grosvenor Dale, Connecticut features a mix of dense woodland and small lakes within a low-lying area of the Quinebaug River watershed. Most glamping sites near Grosvenor Dale sit at elevations between 400-600 feet above sea level, with the camping season generally running from mid-April through October due to New England's seasonal temperature variations. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, making off-season glamping uncommon without specialized accommodations.
What to do
Kayaking on quiet waters: West Thompson Lake Campground offers excellent paddling opportunities on the adjoining lake and river. "We've camped here twice so far and can't wait to be back. This campground is very small and quiet, but the lake and adjoining river offer hours of fun for small craft. Take a long paddle up the river and you'll be escorted by hundreds of bluebirds and cedar waxwings," notes one visitor to West Thompson Lake Campground.
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds near Grosvenor Dale maintain disc golf courses on their properties. "Saw they have 2 yurts for rent as well. Staff was incredibly friendly and gave us restaurant recommendations around the area. About 5 min from great hiking at purgatory chasm," reports a camper who stayed at Sutton Falls Camping Area.
Hiking woodland trails: George Washington State Campground provides access to multiple hiking trails within its boundaries. "Big open sites, really quiet, great place to relax and hike," notes one visitor. Another adds, "Has great hiking trails going around some lakes. Clean showers," highlighting the combination of recreation and facilities at George Washington State Campground.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many glamping locations near Grosvenor Dale feature secluded spots. At Bowdish Lake Camping Area, one camper observed, "We went for a weekend only so we weren't there long but everything was great. The site was very secluded and very large which was awesome! Kids had a blast!" Larger sites provide ample space for glamping setups with multiple tents or structures.
Water access options: Most upscale glamping sites include proximity to swimming areas. "This is a nice family campground. We're at site Red 24 and it's very secluded and flat. This site is right next to the state park that's nearby, so it's fairly quiet," mentions a visitor at Bowdish Lake Camping Area. Several glamping destinations offer swimming in both pools and natural water bodies.
Lean-to structures: Several campgrounds feature permanent lean-to structures for semi-permanent glamping experiences. "We stayed at one of their lean-to sites a few years ago with 3 other friends and had a good time. Very convenient to have the elevated space to sleep and store items in," explains a camper about their experience at West Thompson Lake Campground. These structures provide more stability and protection from weather than standard tents.
What you should know
Site reservation specifics: Most glamping sites require reservations well in advance, especially for premium accommodations. "Wells State Park camp grounds recently got new bathrooms and they are so clean! The campsites are a nice size to drive your car up to and still have ample tent/picnic table/fire space. Camp sites are clearly labeled and none are that far of a walk from the beach or bathrooms," reports a visitor to Wells State Park Campground.
Variable bathroom quality: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between glamping locations. "The park rangers and camp staff are super friendly and helpful, and the facilities are kept neat as a pin all the time. There are plenty of hiking trails that we have yet to explore, but from the trail heads they look very well maintained," notes a camper at West Thompson Lake Campground.
Seasonal access restrictions: Many glamping sites close gates at specific hours. "Large campsites, Nice basketball court, Decent bathrooms for a state campground, only complaint is that they close the gate to enter at 9pm," mentions a camper about West Thompson Lake Campground. Be sure to confirm arrival procedures if planning a late check-in.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many glamping locations feature organized recreation programs. "Great family campground with many activities for the entire family," shares a visitor at Brialee Family Campground. Activities often include supervised crafts, games, and seasonal events throughout summer weekends.
Beach and pool options: Several glamping sites offer both natural swimming areas and maintained pools. "We had a great time relaxing around the campfire with another family. The playground was a hit for our kids!" mentions a visitor to Thousand Trails Sturbridge. When glamping with children, sites with multiple water recreation options provide flexibility during hot summer days.
Playground facilities: Most family-oriented glamping destinations maintain playground equipment. "Deep in the woods. Great variety of activities. Swimming lake, canoeing lake, pool, playgrounds. Choice of shade in trees or open field. Nice sites. Decent laundry and showers. Great place with kids.....lots of seasonal, but plenty short term. We will be back!!!" reports a camper who visited Brialee Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Firewood delivery services: Several glamping locations offer direct-to-site firewood delivery. "Quaint little campground. Not many tenting sites but along a beautiful lake. Pets allowed. Bathrooms close by 10, something to keep in mind. And they're cash or check only! Taylor Pond is not far and a great hike to bring both kids and pets," notes a visitor to Wilderness Lake Park. Delivery services save time and effort when managing larger glamping setups.
Power considerations: Glamping sites with electrical hookups may have limitations. According to one visitor at Charlie Brown Campground, "This was our first time visiting and my entire family enjoyed themselves so much, that we've already reserved a site for a few weeks from now. Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built in entertainment for the kids!" Check whether your chosen site provides 30 or 50 amp service if bringing electrical equipment.
Site leveling requirements: Many wooded glamping sites require additional leveling for comfortable setups. "Sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept, bathrooms were very clean with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins). Staff was friendly and helpful, with park rangers making regular rounds," shares a visitor to George Washington State Campground.
