Rocky Neck State Park Campground sits along the Connecticut shoreline near Ivoryton, providing cabin camping options within a 15-minute drive. Sites include fire pits with grill attachments and picnic tables, though some tent-only locations require carrying gear from parking areas. The park connects to surrounding natural areas through hiking trails that follow the coastline, making it accessible for campers without vehicles.
What to do
Beach access from camp: At Rocky Neck State Park Campground, campsites are a short walk from the water. According to Mauricio R., "My family has camped at Rocky Neck every year since i was a child. The campsite is only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails."
Fishing opportunities: Witch Meadow Lake Campground offers a small lake for fishing, plus larger lakes in surrounding areas. "Swimming pool, facilities, small lake as well larger lakes in the surrounding area. Great location and campground," notes Pauly P., a frequent visitor.
Outdoor recreation: Basketball courts, pickle ball, softball fields and other sports facilities are available at many campgrounds. The Strawberry Park campground includes multiple recreation options as noted by one visitor: "We watched a magician and played pickle ball on the courts. Kids had fun on the many play grounds."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Wolf's Den Family Campground receives positive feedback for site size. "Super kind staff and great room on camp sites," states Jacob S. Another camper mentions, "50x30 sites common," showing the generous dimensions available.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and common areas. A visitor at Niantic KOA notes, "Nice campground, friendly people and staff. Really nice that you can walk to the trails/beach and Rocky Neck. Bathrooms could be nicer, but not bad."
Organized activities: Weekend entertainment makes camping more engaging. At Riverdale Farm Campsites, one camper shared, "We did bingo and it was a blast. It was a beautiful day on the beach pond. They had great prizes for cheap cost. I spent 2 dollars for 10 long rounds of bingo with 4 cards."
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Some campgrounds offer more separation between sites than others. At Odetah Camping Resort, a reviewer observed, "The sites are a little close, but with so much to do you don't spend that much time at your site."
Seasonal popularity: Most glamping resorts near Ivoryton operate from spring through fall, typically April to November. Plan ahead during peak summer months when families fill campgrounds. A Riverdale Farm visitor mentioned, "We did not see a single camper leave the entire time and most people lived there permanently."
Amenity charges: Some campgrounds charge extra for certain services. A guest noted about Niantic KOA, "The price was definitely fair for unlimited wi-fi, electricity and water," while others may charge additional fees for premium internet access, shower use, or laundry facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Many campgrounds schedule daily family entertainment. "They always have activities for the kids on weekends and holidays," a Riverdale Farm visitor noted. Most campgrounds post weekend schedules upon arrival or at the camp store.
Playground options: Multiple play areas keep children entertained. At Strawberry Park, "The kids ride their bikes to the sports fields, the rec center for the pool and activities. Oh and my young children LOVE the air pillow, they have spent hours on there."
Nature programs: Some parks offer educational activities. One Rocky Neck camper mentioned, "Nature Center has movies on weekends for kids," providing indoor options when weather turns unsuitable for outdoor recreation.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites with water, electric, and sewer connections are limited at some campgrounds. At Wolf's Den, a camper observed, "Power and water at every site. Grey dump at site," but noted that honey wagon service is available when full hookups aren't.
Site leveling: Check in advance about site conditions. Some campgrounds have better-maintained spots than others. A Niantic KOA visitor pointed out challenges after rain: "It had rained for a few days before our arrival and that did not help our first impression as we drove on the rutted and muddy road to our site."
Advance reservations: Popular glamping sites near Ivoryton book quickly, especially those with premium locations. A Riverdale Farm camper noted, "We booked for one week with intentions to book for another extra week," but extending stays isn't always possible during busy periods.
