Eastern Connecticut camping options near Haddam offer convenient access to both coastal attractions and inland forests. The region sits at the intersection of the Connecticut River Valley and New England coastal plain with elevations ranging from sea level to about 500 feet. Most campgrounds open from April through October, with limited year-round options available at privately-owned RV parks.
What to do
Beach access: Rocky Neck State Park Campground provides a short walk to its sandy beach, ideal for swimming during summer months. "Every campsite has its own fire pit with a grill attachment and a picnic table. Beach is a short drive on site and the showers were one site over," notes camper Carli V.
Kayaking opportunities: Aces High RV Park features creek areas perfect for water recreation. "There is a creek area for dog swimming. Our two labs loved it! Local kayaking areas and about 30 min to Foxwoods Casino, even closer to Mohegan Sun," shares April L.
Hiking trails: Salem Farms Campground offers proximity to several state parks with hiking options. "Devils Hopyard and Gillette Castle are close and Rocky Neck State Park is about a 25 minute ride," according to Heather P., making it an excellent base for exploring natural attractions.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Sun Outdoors Mystic maintains well-kept amenities that campers appreciate. "The bathrooms and showers are spotless and newly painted. Our site didn't have sewer, but the electric and water were working fine," reports Pam R.
Spacious sites: Aces High RV Park receives praise for its site layouts. "Pull through sites also have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors. Sites and roads are a pea gravel material and each site has large grassy areas around it," explains April L.
Family activities: Salem Farms Campground provides numerous recreation options. "We felt safe allowing the kids to go ride bikes and go mini golfing. We will definitely be back next year!" says Tara K., highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere that many RV parks near Haddam, Connecticut maintain.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Haddam area camping facilities fill quickly during peak seasons. "We stayed for 4 nights during the week, and it was the quietest campground we've ever stayed in. We were told by a seasonal that its a whole different story on the weekend," notes Tracy D. about Salem Farms Campground.
Seasonal limitations: Campground operations typically run from spring to fall. "The campgrounds are named after water fowl: Crane, Egret, Osprey, Heron etc...We stayed in Egret. There is no store in park - no ice either," mentions Nita D. about Rocky Neck State Park.
Staff interactions: Management quality varies between facilities. "Staff were friendly/helpful, campsite clean and campers nice," shares Ron B. about his experience at Aces High RV Park, though experiences differ between locations.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Rocky Neck State Park Campground provides water recreation beyond just swimming. "The skunks are friendly! Great for kids!" notes Jean V., highlighting the wildlife viewing opportunities that complement the beach activities.
Entertainment options: Sun Outdoors Mystic offers numerous family activities. "The mini golf course was actually really nice and not the run-down homemade ones that you usually see at campgrounds. They had an arcade, theater area," says Nancy W.
Wildlife viewing: Look for natural experiences at regional campgrounds. "Beautiful pond and natural setting with lots of ducks, geese, chickens, and wild birds," Matt S. mentions about Aces High RV Park, providing educational opportunities for children.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads: Totoket Valley RV Park offers level sites with stable surfaces. "Small campground with good electrical, clean water, sewer and a friendly owner. Each site has grass and a picnic table," explains Tara N., making it a convenient option for RV parks in Haddam, Connecticut vicinity.
Utility placement: RVers should check hookup locations before booking. "Utility hookups were in great condition and everything worked as it should (other parks should come and take a look at how to do this right)," notes Matt S. about his experience at Aces High RV Park.
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. "The sites are VERY close, but the people are nice and we had a great stay," explains Happy Camper L. about Ashaway RV Resort, suggesting care when selecting sites for larger motorhomes.