Best Tent Camping near Groton, CT
Tent camping options near Groton, Connecticut cluster primarily along the Connecticut River, with several state parks offering boat-in and walk-in access for primitive tent setups. Selden Neck State Park Campground stands out as an island destination with four tent sites accessible only by kayak or boat, while Gillette Castle State Park and Hurd State Park provide riverside camping experiences. Chapman Pond Preserve offers walk-in tent sites with established tent platforms in a more secluded setting.
Most primitive tent campgrounds in the Groton area require self-sufficiency and preparation. Sites typically feature fire pits and picnic tables, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Water access is limited at most locations, with Hidden Lake Farm being one of the few offering drinking water along with showers and toilet facilities. Boat-in campsites along the Connecticut River require careful planning for gear transportation, as paddling across the river takes approximately 20 minutes from public launch points. Campers should secure waterproof bags for equipment when accessing island campsites due to boat wake on the river.
Riverside tent camping provides distinctive seasonal experiences with varying levels of privacy. "Selden Neck State Park is an island in the Connecticut River with no roads or development other than 4 campsites," noted one visitor who camped with a child. Many sites emerge along beaches at low tide, offering additional exploration opportunities. Tent campers particularly appreciate the sunset views across the water at river-adjacent campsites. During foggy mornings, visibility can be limited for those needing to depart by boat, requiring flexibility in departure timing. The Connecticut River corridor provides a mix of seclusion with occasional boat traffic, creating a balance of wilderness experience with some ambient sound, particularly at night near water sites.
