Best Campgrounds near Collinsville, CT
Campgrounds near Collinsville, Connecticut provide options ranging from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks and cabin rentals. Austin Hawes Memorial Campground in American Legion State Forest offers riverside camping with tent, RV, and cabin accommodations along the Farmington River. White Pines Campsites in Barkhamsted features similar options with additional glamping and yurt facilities just a few miles from Collinsville. Black Rock State Park Campground in Watertown and Onion Mountain Park provide additional public land camping alternatives within driving distance.
Most developed campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April or May through September or October, with a few exceptions open year-round. Reservation requirements vary by location, with state forest and park campgrounds typically requiring advance bookings during peak summer months. Primitive camping at Onion Mountain Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis without permits. Many campgrounds provide basic amenities including restrooms, showers, and drinking water, though primitive sites may offer minimal facilities. According to one visitor at Onion Mountain Park, "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis. It's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."
Campers report varied experiences depending on the specific campground and site selection. Riverside sites at Austin Hawes Memorial Campground receive positive reviews for fishing access and natural scenery. A review noted, "Well spaced out lots, you have a lot of privacy." Families and groups particularly appreciate the larger campgrounds like White Pines, which offer recreational facilities and organized activities. Onion Mountain Park attracts those seeking more solitude and primitive camping experiences, with one visitor mentioning it's "a great spot for CT hiking" with primitive sites located off hiking trails. During summer months, several reviews mention insects as a consideration, particularly at woodland and riverside sites. Noise levels vary significantly between the quieter state forest sites and more developed private campgrounds that may have weekend activities.
