Camping options near Hebron, Connecticut range from state parks with basic amenities to full-service family resorts with seasonal activities. The area sits within Connecticut's rolling woodland terrain at approximately 500-600 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons can see overnight temperatures drop into the 40s, requiring proper sleeping gear.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground offers brook trout fishing within walking distance of campsites. A camper noted, "Go here every spring for opening day of fishing season and camp the entire weekend" while enjoying the park's streams.
Kayaking access: At Wilderness Lake Park, campers can use complimentary kayaks on the property's lake. "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," reported a visitor who appreciated this no-cost amenity.
Halloween camping: Odetah Camping Resort runs special seasonal events in fall. One family reported, "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."
Waterfall hikes: Several campgrounds provide access to scenic waterfalls within a short walk. A recent visitor to Devil's Hopyard 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."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Campers seeking privacy appreciate the tent areas at Wilderness Lake Park. "The host gave us a secluded spot in the back to the point I didn't feel like I was at a campground other than the fire ring," reported one tent camper.
Lake access: Salem Farms Campground provides multiple water features for recreation. "We tent close to the restroom and the pool, which are very clean. We go mid week and the special is pay 2 nights, get third night free," noted one regular camper who visits with grandchildren.
Wooded privacy: While many campgrounds in the region have open layouts, some sites offer more separation. A visitor to Rocky Neck State Park Campground explained, "They have a variety of tree covering options for each campers preferences."
Camp kitchens: Several campgrounds offer food service, which provides a break from campsite cooking. As one camper at Markham Meadows mentioned, "Kitchen open on weekends, yummo! Great safe place for kids to play. Bingo and dancing!"
What you should know
Cash-only policies: Some privately owned campgrounds have specific payment requirements. A visitor to Wilderness Lake Park advised, "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared."
Site types vary significantly: Salt Rock Campground offers diverse options. "Sites are a mix of field, shaded, and partly shaded," noted one camper, allowing visitors to select based on preference.
Water access limitations: While some parks advertise waterfront locations, access varies. At Rocky Neck, one kayaker found, "Anyone with kayaks can't easily get to boat launch. It's 4-5 miles by car at 4 mile river boat launch."
Limited facilities at state parks: Devil's Hopyard provides minimal amenities. A camper pointed out, "There is no running water or electricity but the campground still served its purpose. The waterfall was a quick walk away."
Tips for camping with families
Group sites: For larger family gatherings, dedicated areas provide more flexibility. A visitor to Salt Rock Campground shared, "We had a group from work head out here. We reserved Coyote Run, and had the field to ourselves, it was a bit of a walk to the shower from there, but we had our own outhouse."
Activity schedules: Brialee Family Campground organizes regular programming for children. One visitor observed, "The campground offers activities pretty much hourly for kids and adults to enjoy."
Swimming options: Campsites with swimming facilities rank highly among families. "There's a nice lake to float on, a clean pool to swim in, activities every weekend," reported a Waters Edge seasonal camper describing summer recreation options.
Safety considerations: Family-oriented campgrounds often create secure environments for children. A camper at Salem Farms explained, "We felt safe allowing the kids to go ride bikes and go mini golfing. We will definitely be back next year!"
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Devil's Hopyard sites provide basic connections only. "Only electric 30 or 50A, and water; but there are a few dumpstations around in the camp," shared one RVer describing the available services.
Delivery services: At Wolf's Den Family Campground, staff will bring necessities to your site. "They do trash pickup on the weekends so you can just leave your bags at the end of your site which is nice and they also provide delivery of wood/fire starter/ice to your campsite," noted one visitor.
Size limitations: Older campgrounds may have access issues for larger rigs. An RVer at Wolf's Den cautioned, "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."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in this region operate from spring through fall. Salt Rock's season runs "May 20 to September 29" while Wilderness Lake Park extends slightly longer from "April 1 to December 1," providing more options for late-season camping.
