Tent campsites near Ivoryton, Connecticut are concentrated within 20 miles of the Long Island Sound, where the Connecticut River creates a transitional ecosystem between freshwater and tidal environments. The region features elevations under 500 feet with mixed hardwood forests dominating the landscape. Summer camping temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity near water sites.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Several tent camping locations connect directly to trail systems. At Onion Mountain Park, campers can access both yellow and blue marked trails from primitive campsites. "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night," reports one reviewer who appreciated the location's seclusion.
River swimming: Connecticut River access provides natural swimming opportunities at many tent sites. The south end of Hurd Park allows water activities directly from camp. According to a camper: "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."
Historical exploration: Multiple tent campgrounds serve as bases for exploring historic sites. Gillette Castle State Park Campground provides access to guided castle tours during specific hours. One visitor noted, "Great place for a hike or a picnic. Castle has tours at certain times."
What campers like
Island isolation: The boat-access campsites on islands create a sense of remoteness despite being close to towns. Selden Neck State Park Campground provides isolated camping on an undeveloped island. A camper with a 5-year-old reports: "Plenty of flat area to pitch a tent, nice picnic table and fire pit. There's a private outhouse. At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on."
Beginner-friendly options: Some tent sites offer good introductory camping experiences. Onion Mountain Park serves this purpose well. "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it," explains a scout leader.
Private camping areas: Several tent sites provide separation from other campers. Hidden Lake Farm receives praise for its secluded sites, with one reviewer specifically highlighting the "Quiet and Private" nature of the camping experience.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Morning river fog can impact boating and visibility at waterside tent sites. Jason S. reported at Selden Neck: "In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early. But it burned off before long and we headed back."
Wildlife encounters: Natural settings mean wildlife interactions are common. River Highlands State Park River Campground visitors should prepare for insects. One camper advised: "The campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river. As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Parking limitations: Not all tent sites allow parking directly at campsites. At Onion Mountain Park, "Other posts claim you can park right at the site, but you can not. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take. However, it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly water sites: Some waterfront tent sites accommodate children safely. A parent who camped with their 5-year-old at Selden Neck found the experience manageable: "My 5-year-old and I camped at site 2, Hogback. I haven't visited the other sites, but probably will just book this one again because it was so good."
First-time camping locations: Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground provides a structured environment for families new to tent camping. One visitor shared: "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean."
Gear considerations: When camping with children near water, waterproofing becomes essential. For Selden Neck visits, one camper advises: "If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags."
Tips from RVers
Tent-only access restrictions: Most riverside tent campsites near Ivoryton are not accessible to RVs due to terrain, road conditions, or access methods. Many sites require boat, hiking, or walk-in access only, making them exclusively tent-oriented camping experiences.
Alternative tent sites with amenities: For campers wanting tent experiences with RV-like conveniences, Chapman Pond Preserve offers structured facilities while maintaining a tent-only atmosphere. "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view. Good site," notes one visitor about this established but primitive camping area.
