Don’t discount this east-coast state because of its small stature. It may be New England’s second smallest state, but Connecticut’s 5,018 square miles are full of surprises, especially for outdoorists. From the forest to the shore there’s lots to explore – Connecticut offers 250-miles of Long Island Sound shoreline! This small but mighty state should be the next pin in your map, let’s go camping in Connecticut from the coast to the country!


If you’re looking for a truly outdoorsy experience, and a little taste of the Appalachian Trail, give backcountry camping in Connecticut a try and head to Sages Ravine. There are designated sites for campers to enjoy, and peak baggers will appreciate the ability to combine this camping trip with a trek to Connecticut’s tallest mountain, Bear Mountain. The climb up Bear Mountain isn’t terribly treacherous, or strenuous, but there is some scrambling involved to up the ante. The views from 2,323 ft. make the trek well worth it!


Not into backcountry camping? Camping in Connecticut can cater to the desires of just about any kind of camper – including those looking for an experience that brings back memories of summer camp. Club Getaway is the can’t-miss all-inclusive, all-things-fun, camp in Kent, Connecticut. Club Getaway’s ‘Camp For Adults’ (don’t worry, there’s one for families, too) offers everything from adrenaline pumping activities like rock climbing, SUP, and zip lining, to the more chilled-out vibes of yoga and massages, arts and crafts, and mixology classes, too. There are even flip cup competitions, and rounds of Cards Against Humanity.


Want a taste of that salty shore air? Head to the coast and camp at Rocky Neck State Park on the Long Island Sound in East Lyme, Connecticut. Be warned, though, this is a very popular spot. This 710-acre park offers half a mile of sandy shores, and a 5 month camping season from May to September—pro tip: heading out later in the season may make for smaller crowds. Also worth mentioning, you can’t camp on the beach, but you won’t be far from it!


From the country to the coast, camping in Connecticut offers a variety of opportunities for visitors to get outside and get exploring. With The Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best places to venture out whether you’re looking for an epic adventure or some outdoor R&R.

Connecticut

The Best Camping in Connecticut | 100+ CT Campgrounds

Hop Brook Lake is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Hop Brook Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Hop Brook Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Hop Brook Lake

The Best Camping Near Hop Brook Lake, Connecticut

We've been a Tentrr site since summer of 2018 and have hosted well over 500 campers at our site!  

Wooded campsite accessible through sheep pasture, it's about 200 yards from the parking spot to the Tentrr site.  Here's what is included:  
- All of the standard Tentrr stuff (two queen air mattresses, picnic table, camp stove, camp toilet, etc) including a full 5 gallon cooler of potable water, 5 gallons of water for hand washing or hand sanitizer when its cold, a solar shower, and three tiki torches (but without oil).  We also include toilet paper, camp bowls, cups, silverware, and plates for 8, one stainless pot, and one large stainless skillet.  Plenty of firewood will be provided at the camp site along with fire starting materials (fatwood sticks, paper, cardboard, and lighters).

Our site is very close to Southeast Station (Harlem Line). We are right off the Putnam and Maybrook Trailways that make up part of the Empire State Trail (one could bike here from NYC entirely on rail trails), I-84/I-684, merely an hour or so from the city!  Lots to do nearby including:
- Ice Pond Preserve Hiking and Bouldering within walking distance (great bouldering location!)
- Kayaking in the Great Swamp of Patterson NY, White Pond in Kent, NY, and Constitution Marsh in Cold Spring along the Hudson River
- Hiking in numerous nearby parks like Fahnestock, Michael Ciaola, Ice Pond Conservation Area, etc.
- Fishing and Fly Fishing in several area streams and lakes (NY fishing license required)
- Mountain biking nearby including Ice Pond (only a mile away)
- Road biking around popular trailways (Putnam and Maybrook Trailway) and nearby roads
- Swimming in nearby White Pond

As a warning, due to the proximity to Interstate 84, there is some background noise but it is minimal and cant be heard normally over the wind or a crackling fire! 

If you get to the site and are unhappy about anything, please let me know! 


The Space:
Privacy and seclusion close to Metro North and the Empire State Trail. 

Guest Access:
This is an exclusive Tentrr Signature campsite. Tentrr partners with farmers, ranchers, and other property owners to offer unique outdoor accommodations on beautiful private land. Our campsites are off-the-grid which means they generally do not have access to electricity, wifi, or modern plumbing. Instead, they offer the chance to relax, unplug, and fully experience nature! You'll have the entire campsite to yourself, as you'll be the only Campers enjoying this piece of paradise.

Each campsite includes a 10'x12' safari-style canvas tent on a raised platform, and you'll find one queen bed or a queen-size bunk bed inside (each site is different, see photos for the exact setup). Larger groups can also use the extra 5-person pop-up dome tent that___s provided (you___re welcome to bring your own camping gear too). You'll also have a 6-ft picnic table, outdoor fire pit, 2 Tentrr Adirondack chairs, and a heating source to keep you warm and toasty at night. 

What you should bring:
-S'mores supplies & any food you'd like to eat
-A cooler to keep your grub from spoiling 
-Bedding and pillows
-Lanterns and lighting 
-Firewood for the campfire
-Water

Upon check out, you should leave-no-trace of your stay and be sure your campsite is returned to its natural glory! While Tentrr does not charge a cleaning fee, we do expect campsites to be left how they were found. After you check out, take everything you brought in and be sure to leave your trash at the designated location on the property. 

If a CampKeeper submits an incident report after your stay that details evidence of trash or damage to the campsite or the CampKeeper___s property, Tentrr reserves the right to charge a minimum cleaning fee of $50. Just make sure to follow the Camper Manual posted at your campsite and you'll be set!

Occupancy: Max occupancy refers to the total number of campers allowed at the site during your reservation. We welcome campers with larger parties, but you may need to bring extra camping gear of your own in addition to the tent that is already provided. Please plan accordingly.

Toilets: Every campsite is equipped with a camp toilet (we call it the Tentrr Loo). This is a simple wooden box with a toilet seat and a bucket inside. Line the bucket with a CleanWaste bag supplied at the camp (or another appropriate plastic bag) prior to use. Afterwards, simply tie the bag up and place it in a trash bag. We got this idea from bathrooms used on NASA spaceships, and we've used the Tentrr Loo countless times ourselves- don't worry!

Showers: Every Signature campsite comes with a Coleman Sun Shower. The sun shower has a reservoir that holds up to 5 gallons of water, potentially enough for multiple showers. It's constructed of heat-locking material that warms the water when it's left in the sun, even on cool days.

Interaction with Guests:
In the age of social distancing, isolated time can still be quality time - especially when you___re unplugged and out in nature - and we want you to know that the Tentrr team and our hosts are working together to make sure you have a safe and relaxing experience. Our hosts have been doing a great job ensuring our campsites are clean and spotless for your arrival. We ask that you do your part as well - maintain social distancing, clean up after yourselves, and leave no trace - so that everyone in our camping communities can enjoy these cherished outdoor spaces. 

To limit the potential impact of community spread during the Covid-19 pandemic, we are encouraging our campers and hosts to adopt self-check in procedures whenever possible. To make self check-in easy, Tentrr provides a map to your site and driving directions in an email sent out a few days before your reservation. Please refer to this guide to get to your campsite. As a reminder, it is good practice to give your host a head's up on your estimated arrival time a few days beforehand. If you need any assistance, you can reach out to your host through the contact information provided in your confirmation email.

Other Things to Note:
The sheep are shy and will leave you alone - they are not aggressive.  Please close the gates behind you and latch the chain, it doesn't have to be tight.  No guns allowed on property, no hunting as well.  Please don't drive into the field. Park outside the field at the Tentrr parking sign. A cart to haul your stuff is provided.  No fireworks!

If you want to camp this winter, send me a message and I can make the site available for you.

House Rules:
___ No parties or events
___ Check-in is anytime after 12:00 PM
___ Check-out is 11:00 AM

While Tentrr does not charge a cleaning fee when each reservation is booked, we do expect campsites to be left how they were found!  
After a Camper leaves a site, they should take with them anything they brought in and leave no trace of their stay.
If a CampKeeper submits an incident report after your stay that details evidence of trash or damage to the campsite or the CampKeeper___s property, Tentrr reserves the right to charge a minimum cleaning fee of $50. 
Just make sure to follow the Tentrr Camper Manual posted at your campsite (and linked in the pdf below), and you'll be set!

Total Bathrooms: 1


Tentrr Signature Site - Holmestead Woods

Primitive CAMPING and Picnic area . Quarry View is a unique 334 year old Brownstone quarry that is listed as a Historic National Landmark. Here you will find natural springs that flow from what we call "The wall of water" down to one of our small waterfalls. We also have many artifacts including dinosaur tracks and carved dates in the stones in the walls that go back to 1887. There is a trail that leads back in time to an area with 80 foot brownstone walls left from the quarry operations. Here you can find a rear patio where a musician will enjoy the acoustics unlike any other. Tuesday and Friday Drum circles 6:30-9 with a sunset ceremony. We sit 50 feet above the water upon the ledges that overlook the Brownstone Discovery and Adventure park below . (SITES ARE BASED on 2 adults children under 16 FREE)



Quarry View Historic Park and Campground 

Black Rock State Park

Very quiet and private in back woods horse pastures on a small farm with free range chickens, a dog, and a couple of horses. Your pets are welcome too! Locally there are state parks with beaches, and state forest for trails & lakes, hiking and biking. Or you can just relax and enjoy the serenity!

We have a lovely remodelled well insulated horse trailer here which has a queen and a double bed.There is small battery operated plug in outlet inside for a light or CPAP appliance. There is an old fashioned out house for this site exclusive use. A cold water spigot is located on this site well. There are a couple of fire pits, grills, some pans with utensils and a picnic table with chairs.

Other attractions include local farmers markets, Gilette's Castle, and the famous River Ferry crossing the Connecticut River with a vehicle across to East Haddam. We cannot allow any wood for camp fires to be brought in form the outside for environmental reasons. It can be purchased for $10 per bundle.

Farm Fresh eggs daily when available for $3.00 per 1/2 dozen and $5.00 per dozen. And there are also blocks of ice $5 for the large styrofoam cooler in grilling area next to horse trailer. Garbage removal is available as well $5 per bag provided.



Hidden Lake Farm

Kettletown 

Kettletown State Park

Lake Compounce Campground is a one-of-a-kind family camping experience located steps away from Lake Compounce Family Theme & Water Park. Lake Compounce Campground provides one-bedroom cabins, two-bedroom cabins, cub huts, tipis, RV spaces, and tent sites. Plus, perks like discounted single-day admission to the park, themed weekends every weekend, family activities, and tons of amenities.

Lake Compounce Campground

Imagine yourself sitting around a crackling fire under the brightly lit night sky listening to the Shepaug River meandering downstream. At Steep Rock, campers are surrounded by nature. Steep Rock offers tent camping at three different sites located right along the River. We invite you to come experience Steep Rock in a new way!

Steep Rock Association

Branch Brook Campground is a full-service family destination in the rolling hills of Thomaston, CT. We are a top-rated campground and RV Park that offers a wide range of accommodations and amenities. Branch Brook Campground is designed to make your stay as effortless as possible all with the same philosophy in mind - our guests come first.

Two miles from Route 8, our campground serves as a convenient location for traveling campers. The town of Thomaston advantageously holds several top-rated restaurants and attractions. Not to mention the accessibility to local grocery and hardware stores makes our location very favorable to those staying here for more than a night.

Branch Brook Campground

Point Folly Campground

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Bridgeport, CT has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Bridgeport. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Bridgeport. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Bridgeport

The Best Camping Near Bridgeport, Connecticut

Looking for the best campgrounds near New Haven, CT? New Haven is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Get the dirt on all the best camping near New Haven. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

New Haven

The Best Camping Near New Haven, Connecticut

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Stamford, CT has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Stamford and user-submitted reviews.

Stamford

The Best Camping Near Stamford, Connecticut

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Hartford, CT has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Connecticut camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Hartford and user-submitted reviews.

Hartford

The Best Camping Near Hartford, Connecticut

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Waterbury, CT has a lot to offer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Waterbury and user-submitted reviews.

Waterbury

The Best Camping Near Waterbury, Connecticut

Are you in need of a campground near Norwalk, CT? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Connecticut camping adventure.

Norwalk

The Best Camping Near Norwalk, Connecticut

Are you in need of a campground near Danbury, CT? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Danbury is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near Danbury, reviewed by campers like you.

Danbury

The Best Camping Near Danbury, Connecticut

New Britain is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near New Britain, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Connecticut camping adventure.

New Britain

The Best Camping Near New Britain, Connecticut

West Hartford is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are West Hartford campgrounds just for you. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near West Hartford and user-submitted reviews.

West Hartford

The Best Camping Near West Hartford, Connecticut

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Meriden. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Meriden is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Meriden, CT. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Meriden

The Best Camping Near Meriden, Connecticut

Northfield Brook Lake is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Northfield Brook Lake is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near Northfield Brook Lake, reviewed by campers like you.

Northfield Brook Lake

The Best Camping Near Northfield Brook Lake, Connecticut

Join the fun near Surry Mountain Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Surry Mountain Lake is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Surry Mountain Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

The Best Camping in Hop Brook Lake

Top Campgrounds in Hop Brook Lake (121)

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