Salem, Connecticut offers camping experiences ranging from basic tent sites to resort-style amenities within a 30-minute radius. The region's elevation averages around 350 feet above sea level in a primarily woodland setting. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons provide milder temperatures in the 50-70°F range.
What to do
Fishing at local ponds: Wolf's Den Family Campground has a fishing pond at the back of the property that anglers find convenient. As one camper noted, "There's a fishing pond, which my husband loved. We hiked and went fishing nearby."
Visit waterfront attractions: Crocker's Boatyard provides unique access to coastal activities. A recent visitor shared, "Sunday we went and visited Fort Trumbull which is also walking distance away. Very nice place to visit and learn. Also took a tour of the Coast Guard Ship at Fort Trumbull."
Explore waterfalls: Hiking trails near Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground lead to scenic falls. One reviewer mentioned, "Across the street from the campground is a trail to Chapman Falls, which will take less than 10 minutes to hike to, but it's a pretty waterfall."
Mini-golf outings: Several campgrounds offer on-site mini-golf, including Wolf's Den which charges $2 per person. For families looking for additional options, a camper at Aces High RV Park noted, "Nearby (5min drive) is also a fun looking place for mini golf."
What campers like
Beach access: Rocky Neck State Park Campground provides convenient beach access. According to one review, "The campsite is only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails. A great family campsite with easy to get to activities."
Privacy and space: Sites at Aces High RV Park offer good separation. A camper reported, "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."
Water recreation: Multiple ponds and swimming options exist throughout the area. At Waters Edge Family Campground, visitors enjoy multiple water features: "There's a nice lake to float on, a clean pool to swim in, activities every weekend."
Natural surroundings: The wooded settings create peaceful environments. A camper at Salem Farms commented, "Great camping out the woods of Salem CT," while another noted the campground was "Quiet, clean and friendly."
What you should know
Limited facilities at state parks: Devil's Hopyard has minimal amenities. A reviewer cautioned, "There are no running water or electricity but the campground still served its purpose. There is no water hookups or bathrooms either."
Tick prevention essential: At Devil's Hopyard, a camper warned, "Be very careful with ticks, there were tons of them under our picnic table and by the campfire. Bring your own chairs to sit on and don't put too much down that they may be able to stick to. Our 2 nights we found over 25 ticks."
Weather preparedness: The coastal location experiences higher humidity and occasional storms. Multiple reviews mention rain impacts, like at Aces High where "Sites and roads are a pea gravel material," which helps with drainage.
Reservation timing: The most popular camping spots near Salem fill quickly. Niantic KOA receives high traffic during peak seasons, with a visitor noting their premium spaces were "vanishing" even "the weekend before Labor Day."
Tips for camping with families
Activities for kids: Odetah Camping Resort offers extensive recreation options. A camper shared, "We went two years in a row each on Halloween! They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating."
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds offer more secure environments. At Waters Edge Family Campground, a visitor appreciated that "Most amazing weekend with tons of woods (privacy is huge for us). Very friendly guests and staff! Amazing weekend with lots of fun for the kids and even the dogs!"
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with multiple water features. A camper at Odetah noted, "The lake is great!! The pool area is a little small, but the attraction is the lake. The splash area at the pool is great for little kids."
Organized activities: Scheduled events enhance the family experience. At Salem Farms Campground, "We went tent camping with 3 other families. Loved the tent area and how close it was for the kids to use the pool and facilities. Everything was clean and well kept. We felt safe allowing the kids to go ride bikes and go mini golfing."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Different campgrounds accommodate various RV sizes. At Wolf's Den Family Campground, "Really long or tall RV will need to stay close to the front of the campground, as typical older campground is not designed for 40 foot long or 10 foot high campers."
Hookup availability: Salem Farms Campground provides electric and water hookups but no sewer at most sites. A visitor noted, "Fire pits are nice and big made with large rocks," which is helpful for RVers planning cooking options.
Leveling and access: Concrete pads at some parks make setup easier. A visitor to Aces High appreciated "Clean, well-maintained, and level site with concrete pad and patio (I love a clean, level concrete pad!). Utility hookups were in great condition."
Seasonal considerations: Most RV parks around Salem operate from May through October. Wolf's Den runs "1st weekend May to last weekend October," and Odetah operates "May 1 - Nov 3," giving RVers a clear window for planning trips to the region.
