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Best Campgrounds near Hamden, CT

519 Reviews

Camping in the Hamden, Connecticut area includes several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, offering tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. Kettletown State Park Campground in Southbury and Lake Compounce Campground in Bristol represent two popular options providing varying levels of amenities. The region includes both public state park facilities with basic amenities and privately operated campgrounds with more extensive services. Most campgrounds feature a mix of tent sites alongside RV-friendly spaces, with select locations also offering cabin rentals or glamping options for those seeking more comfortable accommodations.

The camping season in Connecticut state parks typically runs from late May through early September, with most facilities closing after Labor Day. Private campgrounds like Riverdale Farm Campsites in Clinton generally operate on a longer season from April through November. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when facilities reach capacity. Many campgrounds provide electric hookups, water access, and modern restroom facilities with showers. The terrain across most sites is wooded with varying degrees of privacy between campsites. A camper described Kettletown State Park as having "beautiful trails, both flat and hilly" though noting that "the sites were super close together and the boundary lines were unclear."

Waterfront access represents a valued feature at several campgrounds in the area. Hammonasset State Park Campground in Madison offers proximity to Long Island Sound beaches, while inland options like Hidden Lake Farm provide more secluded water settings. Family-friendly amenities are common, with one visitor noting that Kettletown State Park has "a huge land of campsite that the kids can run around until their energy out for the night!" Bathroom and shower facilities vary significantly in quality and cleanliness across locations, with some state park facilities described as "in dire need of updating." Wildlife encounters are common, with raccoons and skunks frequently mentioned in camper reviews. Most campgrounds maintain quiet hours, though enforcement can be inconsistent during peak season weekends according to visitor reports.

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Best Camping Sites Near Hamden, Connecticut (98)

    1. Hammonasset State Park Campground

    39 Reviews
    Clinton, CT
    20 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."

    2. Kettletown State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Stevenson, CT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (203) 264-5678

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We love this State Park because it's close to our home for a quick getaway.  This time we tried one of the sites on the water, and I probably wouldn't choose the same site again. "

    "Semi private with great view and nice walks to the water. Noise was not a problem overnight as to having problems with noises neighbors at other CT state parks."

    3. 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."

    4. Riverdale Farm Campsites

    11 Reviews
    Clinton, CT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 669-5388

    "The lake is perfect, the river needs work. But this an awesome small campground. The kids who work here are so friendly and the playground is nice."

    "Sites are very close to one another. Level pull through site. Quit in the evening!"

    5. Totoket Valley RV Park

    1 Review
    North Branford, CT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (203) 484-0099

    $55 / night

    6. Branchbrook campground

    2 Reviews
    Ansonia, CT
    9 miles

    7. Gentiles Campground

    7 Reviews
    Plymouth, CT
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 283-8437

    $55 - $150 / night

    "Quiet CG near Waterbury CT. Close to major stores for resupply. CG has lots of friendly seasonal campers and lots of other sites."

    "There’s two brand new bathrooms on site one of which is conveniently located right by the pool. Owners are doing new renovations to make this place look good!"

    8. Black Rock State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Thomaston, CT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 283-8088

    $17 - $50 / night

    "Beautiful state park, very clean .. fishing, lake swimming, hiking trails. Bathrooms, free showers .. stores within a 5 minute drive. Most of the camp ground site are not secluded .."

    "The family next to me offered me dinner one night after I spent the whole day working on my RV. Spanish rice chicken the works the plate could barely hold it all."

    9. Wildwood State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Wading River, NY
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (631) 929-4314

    $20 - $250 / night

    "The beach is in a walking distance. You can swim or fish there. This camp site has a relatively new and clean facility. There are many farms near by where you can get fresh veggies and fruits."

    "However there are too many loud families and the sites are too close in proximity for me."

    10. Hidden Lake Farm

    1 Review
    Higganum, CT
    17 miles
    +1 (860) 301-6983

    $49 - $89 / night

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Recent Camping Photos near Hamden, CT

223 Photos of 98 Hamden Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Hamden, CT

519 Reviews of 98 Hamden 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

    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!

  • 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.

  • S
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Sylvan Lake Beach Park

    Great Beach Lake for summer swimming and Boating

    This is an old campground, but is quite quaint. Reminds me of lake camping that I grew up with. Hosts are very nice and helpful. This is more of a seasonal camping site. Do not follow your GPS directions. Get directions from the campground staff.

  • Michael
    Sep. 20, 2025

    The Quarry Campground

    The Quarry Campground

    Very quiet. At night all you can hear is the crackling of the campfire.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Gentiles Campground

    Nice place to stay

    Quiet CG near Waterbury CT. Close to major stores for resupply. CG has lots of friendly seasonal campers and lots of other sites. Most sites seem pretty level, but there are some steep roads in the CG. There is an airport next to CG, but it is for single engine private planes only so not a problem. Not by a major road so little traffic noise. I would stay here again.

Guide to Hamden

Camping near Hamden, Connecticut, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking: Many campgrounds, like Clarence Fahnestock State Park, have great trails. One visitor mentioned, "The NYS Parks has done a lot of work on the surrounding trails," making it perfect for those who love to hike.
  • Beach Access: At Hammonasset State Park Campground, you can enjoy the beach without extra fees. A reviewer said, "The beach was popular," highlighting its appeal for sunbathers and swimmers.
  • Fishing: Campgrounds like Wildwood State Park Campground are close to fishing spots. One camper noted, "A lot of fishermen," making it a great choice for anglers.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A visitor at Beaver Pond Campground said, "I enjoy the beach/lakefront, and regularly cleaned bathroom and shower facilities."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds cater to families. A reviewer at Brialee Family Campground mentioned, "The sand beach is great for the kids and there is always something going on."
  • Secluded Sites: Campers enjoy the privacy of certain sites. One camper at Taconic State Park said, "Some are 'on the hill' so you get a little more privacy."

What you should know

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Hammonasset State Park Campground warned, "It sounded like a rave throughout the night."
  • Site Spacing: Not all sites offer privacy. A camper at Copake Falls Area mentioned, "Sites are a little close together for my liking."
  • Booking in Advance: Popular campgrounds fill up quickly. A family at Mystic KOA advised, "If you are looking for a site, it’s best to book far in advance."

Tips for camping with families

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized activities. A reviewer at Brialee Family Campground said, "They have tons of activities and the kids love their playground."
  • Choose the Right Site: Opt for sites that are spacious and have easy access to amenities. A camper at Rocky Neck State Park Campground noted, "The Osprey loop has the most woodsy campsites."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra tarps and blankets for unpredictable weather. One family at Mills Norrie State Park Campground mentioned, "Bring extra tarps and rope!"

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Wilderness Lake Park said, "Some sites are close together, but it doesn't feel packed."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds with full hookups make for a more comfortable stay. A camper at Mystic KOA appreciated the "50 AMP, sewer & water hookup."
  • Be Prepared for Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A reviewer at Hammonasset State Park Campground noted, "There was traffic noise from the beach road."

Camping around Hamden, Connecticut, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available in and around Hamden?

Several quality campgrounds are within driving distance of Hamden, Connecticut. Hammonasset State Park Campground offers beautiful beachfront camping with well-maintained facilities, abundant showers and bathrooms, and a camp store with essential supplies. For those seeking a more forested experience, Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground provides a natural setting with hiking trails and waterfalls, though sites are situated fairly close together. Other options in the region include Rocky Neck State Park, Kettletown State Park, and Wolf's Den Family Campground, all within reasonable driving distance of Hamden and offering various amenities from beach access to family activities.

Are there open camping fields available near Hamden?

Yes, you can find open field camping options near Hamden. Wolf's Den Family Campground offers spacious camping areas and is conveniently located off Route 9 in Connecticut. The campground is near attractions like Gillette Castle and Goodspeed Opera House. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is another option known for its open areas suitable for group gatherings and has multiple trails. This reservation is popular with locals and offers various recreational activities throughout the year. While Connecticut has fewer open field camping options compared to other states, these locations provide good alternatives within driving distance of Hamden.

Where can I find tent camping sites near Hamden?

Tent campers near Hamden have several excellent options. Wilderness Lake Park offers great tent sites with some secluded options, making it a gem for tent camping despite being partially dedicated to RVs. Kettletown State Park Campground provides tent sites with access to beautiful hiking trails and a river, though swimming availability may vary due to seasonal conditions. Additional tent-friendly options include Lone Oak Camp Sites, which offers family-friendly tent camping with activities for children, and Rocky Neck State Park for those wanting beach proximity. Most of these campgrounds require reservations in advance, especially during peak summer months.

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