Tent campsites near Hop Brook Lake are scattered across northern Connecticut and neighboring New York, with most options located within a 30-mile radius. The region sits within the southern New England upland physiographic area, characterized by rolling hills ranging from 200-700 feet in elevation with numerous streams and small lakes. Fall temperatures typically average 45-60°F during October, while summer highs commonly reach 85°F with humidity levels of 65-75% during camping season.
What to do
Hiking networks: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers over 40 miles of varied terrain trails directly accessible from campsites. A camper noted, "This is a great place for camping. The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather. The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area."
Water activities: Gillette Castle State Park Campground provides tent sites along the Connecticut River with swimming and fishing opportunities. A visitor commented, "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. It is amazing with the views of the CT River and being able to watch the sunrise and sunset."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds near Hop Brook Lake offer encounters with local wildlife including rabbits, deer, and various bird species. According to a Croton Point Park visitor, "There are lots of bunnies!" While at Onion Mountain Park, campers should "put a bear bag about 100 feet away" as recommended by experienced campers.
What campers like
Seclusion options: Many campers appreciate the varying levels of privacy at tent sites. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, "Beautiful campsites! Lots of lean to sites with fireplaces in them... Our favorite site is #25. Up a hill, totally private and has a lean-to."
Riverside camping: Chapman Pond Preserve offers waterfront tent platforms overlooking the Connecticut River. A recent visitor reported, "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view. Good site."
Seasonal variety: Fall camping near Hop Brook Lake delivers cooler temperatures and fewer insects. At Croton Point Park, campers visit "in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require different reservation procedures. Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground offers a straightforward booking process, while Ward Pound Ridge requires in-person registration: "You have to go in person to make a reservation and pay."
Site accessibility: Many tent sites require various levels of hiking from parking areas. At Onion Mountain Park, "it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite" but campers should be prepared for some hiking as "it's definitely more of a hike" from the parking lot.
Seasonal crowds: The proximity to urban areas affects campground occupancy. One camper at Onion Mountain Park noted it was "Very busy, not a place if you want solitude," especially during peak summer weekends when metropolitan residents seek outdoor escapes.
Weather preparation: The area experiences typical New England seasonal variations. River Highlands State Park campers mention that "the campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river" but advise preparation for natural elements as "the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders."
Tips for camping with families
Youth-friendly sites: Mountain Lakes Park offers family-appropriate camping with unique accommodations. A visitor mentioned, "A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in. The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds feature nature centers or historical points of interest. Gillette Castle State Park has "tours at certain times" of the castle, providing educational value for children.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities specifically for younger campers. At Croton Point Park, families appreciate the "playground within sight of our camper" making supervision easier while camping with children.
Group camping considerations: For larger family gatherings, specific sites work better than others. As one camper noted about Croton Point Park, "It's a good park/camp for groups. They have cabins and RV sites."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: The Croton Point Park campground provides various hookup options. A recent visitor reported, "A county park with a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites... We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level."
Utility connections: Electric and water hookups are available at select campgrounds. At Croton Point Park, "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Access limitations: Some camping areas near Hop Brook Lake have restrictions for larger vehicles. While Croton Point Park is described as "big-rig friendly," many other local campgrounds have limited space and narrower access roads requiring smaller RVs or trailers.
