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Best Campgrounds near Hartford, CT

663 Reviews

Several campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of Hartford, Connecticut provide varying accommodation types ranging from tent sites to RV hookups and cabin rentals. Lake Compounce Campground in Bristol features tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and glamping options with full facilities including showers and electric hookups. Onion Mountain Park offers primitive tent camping with minimal amenities for those seeking a more rustic experience. The area includes both privately operated and state-managed campgrounds with distinctive settings and service levels.

Campgrounds in the Hartford region typically operate seasonally, with most open from April or May through September or October. The Quarry Campground provides 115 sites with full hookups and accommodates both tents and RVs, while Austin Hawes Memorial Campground in American Legion State Forest offers a more natural setting with basic amenities. Road access varies by location, with most developed sites providing drive-in convenience. According to one visitor at Onion Mountain Park, "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis. Other posts claim you can park right at the site, but you cannot."

Waterfront locations receive particularly positive reviews from visitors to the region. White Pines Campsites in Barkhamsted and Waters Edge Family Campground in Lebanon both feature water access as major draws. Family-friendly amenities appear consistently throughout the region's campgrounds, with recreation halls, swimming areas, and organized activities commonly mentioned in reviews. Several campgrounds balance natural settings with convenient amenities. A camper noted about The Quarry: "They had such great customer service and the amenities are on point. 2 separate ponds: one for fishing, one for swimming; large outdoor games; Rec hall with video games." Wildlife sightings, including coyotes and bears, have been reported at some locations, adding to the outdoor experience but requiring appropriate food storage and waste management practices.

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Best Camping Sites Near Hartford, Connecticut (153)

    1. Lake Compounce Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bristol, CT
    15 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."

    2. Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    13 Reviews
    Riverton, CT
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0922

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We were passing through Connecticut and needed a place to crash. Loved this campsite! Very chilled and secluded in your own site. I liked that it felt like a litrle community but still quotr private."

    "Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots. Definitely need to come back. Great rates on all sites."

    3. Onion Mountain Park

    3 Reviews
    West Simsbury, CT
    12 miles
    Website

    "We arrived at the parking lot of Onion Mountain Park at around 2 pm and proceeded to get our bags packed for the hike."

    "It’s up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take. However, it’s not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."

    4. The Quarry Campground

    5 Reviews
    Tolland, CT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 875-8325

    $45 - $68 / night

    "We came to discover new bike trails and this one was close to the Hop bike trail which we enjoyed very much"

    5. Wilderness Lake Park

    14 Reviews
    Willington, CT
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 684-6352

    $70 / night

    "Connecticut is LACKING when it comes to outdoor activities when compared to some of the places around the country."

    "It’s a dog friendly park which was good for us, our dog could swim in the lake with us. Cute patio overlooking the lake as well with seating."

    6. River Highlands State Park River Campground

    1 Review
    Cromwell, CT
    10 miles
    +1 (203) 287-5658

    $5 / night

    "We only visited for the day and left around dawn, but the campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river."

    7. White Pines Campsites

    11 Reviews
    Winsted, CT
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0124

    $74 / night

    "However one issue was the garbage situation. Had to walk a long distance to throw out the trash."

    "We got a tent spot and it was perfect since it was the furthest one away and there was no one near us which is probably why we loved it so much bc we were so isolated. a little disappointed in the site"

    8. Waters Edge Family Campground

    10 Reviews
    Amston, CT
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 642-7470

    $45 - $100 / night

    "We’ve been to campgrounds with playgrounds worse than the waters edge dog park."

    "This is our families favorite camping location. On the pond at Waters Edge. When asked where they want to camp my 5 and 7 year old will always respond with Waters Edge."

    9. Brialee Family Campground

    14 Reviews
    Ashford, CT
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 303-2267

    $25 - $150 / night

    "Nice hiking around the area. Bathrooms are clean. Good for kids/families."

    "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."

    10. Gentiles Campground

    7 Reviews
    Plymouth, CT
    21 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!"

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Recent Camping Photos near Hartford, CT

316 Photos of 153 Hartford Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Hartford, CT

663 Reviews of 153 Hartford 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

    Green Falls Campground

    Inexpensive and primitive

    We like Green Falls. Again, it is inexpensive and kinda primitive, but it sure also quiet and a real woods camping environment. Take a hike around the pond, fish and swim in season, and enjoy a laid back approach to your time here.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Mount Misery Campground

    Great spot for no frills camping

    We loved Mt. Misery. We spent $17/night, and we know what to expect at that price point. We stayed during fall foliage season and even though CT has had a drought this year, there were still pretty colors to see. We hiked to the overlook of Mt. Misery and had a great time geocaching and enjoying the trails. We found the campsites to be decent, and a number of them did afford privacy and space, we had 4 people and 3 dogs on our site, and had plenty of room for our travel trailer and 2 tents. We will be back here for sure.

  • 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.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

  • 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!

  • Phillip H.
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Mystic KOA

    KOA Mystic

    From the first interaction you see this KOA is customer focused. The staff is friendly, professional and helpful. The grounds are well maintained as are the facilities.

Guide to Hartford

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

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Hammonasset State Park Campground, are just a short walk from the beach. One camper mentioned, "The campground is about a 20 min. walk and 5 min. drive to the beach. There is no additional entrance fee to the beach."
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park. A visitor noted, "The staff, Pat in particular, were warm and friendly. The trails were completely perfectly maintained."
  • Fishing and Snorkeling: At October Mountain State Forest, you can enjoy fishing and hiking. One camper shared, "The campsite was peaceful and quiet and mostly tucked into the hillside."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A review for George Washington State Campground stated, "Sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept, bathrooms were very clean with hot showers."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds cater to families. One visitor at Mystic KOA said, "The entire place is completely geared to families. This weekend focused on Halloween."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Rocky Neck State Park Campground. A review mentioned, "The site itself is not very private but very spacious."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Wells State Park Campground noted, "The highway is very loud (I-90 is across the lake)."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have stores or markets nearby. A visitor at Pine Acres Family Camping Resort mentioned, "There was no camp store for last minute necessities."
  • Reservation Policies: Some campgrounds require advance reservations. A camper at October Mountain State Forest pointed out, "First off no same day reservations or walk ups allowed."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan Activities: Look for campgrounds with organized activities for kids. One family at Mystic KOA enjoyed, "Family movies, trick or treating and hay rides all as part of the stay."
  • Choose the Right Site: Opt for sites that are close to bathrooms and play areas. A camper at Hammonasset State Park Campground said, "I stayed in site 1, the shortest walk."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra gear for comfort, especially for kids. A visitor at Rocky Neck State Park Campground noted, "The sites offered medium privacy."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Accessibility: Make sure your RV can fit in the designated sites. A review for Mt. Greylock Campsite Park mentioned, "The camp sites were well shaded and spacious."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check availability in advance. A camper at George Washington State Campground said, "Full water and electrical hookup."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. A visitor at Pine Acres Family Camping Resort warned, "Awkward close sites. Not dog friendly."

Camping around Hartford, Connecticut, has something for everyone. Whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure, there's a spot for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available near Hartford, CT?

The Hartford area offers several excellent camping options within a reasonable drive. Black Rock State Park Campground provides a welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff and well-maintained grounds. Another option is Hopeville Pond State Park Campground, one of Connecticut's beautiful state parks offering camping facilities. Additional options include Rocky Neck State Park on Long Island Sound, Wolf's Den Family Campground with numerous amenities, and Wilderness Lake Park which offers both RV and tent sites. Most campgrounds in the region are within a 30-60 minute drive from Hartford, making them convenient for weekend getaways or longer stays while exploring Connecticut.

Where can I find cabin camping options around Hartford?

Hammonasset State Park Campground offers rustic cabin options with the bonus of being steps away from a beautiful Connecticut beach. The park maintains clean facilities with abundant showers and bathrooms, plus a well-stocked camp store. Mystic KOA provides comfortable cabin accommodations with access to amenities like a pool and on-site store. Their cabins remain available even during COVID restrictions with proper safety protocols in place. Additional cabin options around Hartford include Brialee Family Campground which offers a variety of cabin styles for different group sizes, and Lake Compounce Campground with its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to the amusement park. Most cabins require advance reservations, especially during peak summer months.

What tent camping sites are available in the Hartford area?

Wilderness Lake Park offers excellent tent camping about an hour from Hartford. While 60% of the campground caters to RVs, the tent sites are secluded and well-maintained, with hosts accommodating special requests for private spots. Rocky Neck State Park Campground provides tent sites with nearby bath houses and restrooms for $33 per night, plus easy access to Long Island Sound beaches. Other tent-friendly options include George Washington State Campground near the Connecticut-Rhode Island border, Frog Hollow Horse Camp in Pachaug State Forest for a more rustic experience, and Devil's Hopyard State Park with its scenic waterfall and hiking trails. Most tent sites in the region provide picnic tables and fire rings.

Are there RV campgrounds near Hartford, Connecticut?

Hartford area RV enthusiasts have several great options. Wolf's Den Family Campground offers full RV amenities including a pool, game room, and mini golf. The campground is conveniently located near attractions like Gillette Castle and a local winery. Douglas Forest RV Resort is another excellent choice, located about 62 minutes from Hartford. The resort has undergone significant upgrades with competitive rates for the value provided. Other options include Mystic KOA with full facilities and proximity to popular coastal attractions, and Waters Edge Family Campground which accommodates big rigs. Most RV campgrounds in the area offer water and electric hookups, with many providing full hookups.

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