The Housatonic River valley around Kent sits at approximately 500 feet elevation in the Berkshire foothills, with surrounding peaks reaching over 1,000 feet. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures frequently dropping below freezing, while summer camping often brings humid days with highs in the 80s. Several campgrounds in the area offer riverside sites with direct water access.
What to Do
Hiking trails: At Macedonia Brook State Park Campground, visitors can access the park's mountain loop trails directly from their sites. "The loop hike over the mountains was good, at times more intermediate than beginner and I wouldn't try to go it with younger kids. We did the east side one afternoon and the west the next," notes reviewer Marque D., who adds that "the trails aren't marked as well and the map at the ranger's station is off a bit."
Fishing opportunities: Housatonic Meadows State Park Campground provides direct river access for anglers. As Chris A. explains, "The fishing, peace and quiet of the place was exactly what we needed! Tons of birdwatching, hiking, river floating."
Swimming access: Campers at Lake Waramaug State Park Campground have lake access, though one visitor notes limitations: "The swimming area is an absolute joke, unless you are 18 months old, and then its probably perfect. (Extremely small, extremely shallow, and some sand to dig in.)" For better swimming options, the same reviewer recommends: "If you want a better place to swim go to Mt.Tom state park about 10 minutes up the road."
What Campers Like
Large, private sites: At Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground, many sites offer good separation. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site," writes Asher K., adding that you should "check out the sites online to get one that is private."
Wildlife viewing: Macedonia Brook offers opportunities to spot local fauna. Camper Catina C. shares: "Our camp spot was right above the river the flows behind this spot. You can go sit down by the water. But be careful! As we were walking back up to our tent there was a small bear within feet from us that we almost didn't see!"
Free dispersed camping: For those seeking basic accommodations, Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park provides no-cost camping. "99% off people don't even know this area exists. If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for," writes Doc B., who appreciates that the area offers "the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service."
What You Should Know
Limited facilities: Some dog friendly campgrounds near Kent offer minimal amenities. At Macedonia Brook, camper Kate notes there are "no bathhouse, just portable toilets and a few water pumps. And a night sky as dark as you can find in CT."
Reservation requirements: Weekend availability can be extremely limited during peak season. For Fahnestock, Asher K. advises: "This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance."
Seasonal variations: Point Folly Campground experiences different conditions depending on which area you choose. Judy S. explains: "I have found the east side of the lake to be much more windy than the west side of the lake. The water front sites on the West Side seem to flood easily if it rains."
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for activity schedules: Cozy Hills Campground provides organized events for kids. Ann S. reports it has "lots and lots of activities for kids! Arts & Crafts, Arcade, Bingo, Casino Night etc. Pool is very nice for families - with no deep end, really safe for younger kids."
Consider noise levels: Lake Waramaug has some unexpected noise issues. One camper notes: "Monday apparently is trash day in the area for all the homes around the lake. They start collecting very early and the sound really carries over the lake."
Bring entertainment: When visiting dog friendly campgrounds near Kent with children, pack items to keep them occupied. One Lake Waramaug visitor suggests: "Bring scooters or bikes for little kids to use within the camp."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Fahnestock, the campground layout varies considerably. Jess M. explains, "The campsite was pleasant and it was peaceful during quiet hours (10pm-7am) on both Friday and Saturday nights."
Limited hookups: Many campgrounds in the area have partial hookups or none at all. Lake Waramaug has electric and water at some sites, but one visitor advises: "If you have a pop-up or anything above the ground on wheels they make your life miserable and prevent you from camping in the front row where the sites are larger, level, and have a lake view."
Cell reception issues: At several pet-friendly campgrounds, cell service can be unreliable. At Lake Waramaug, a long-time visitor notes: "Yes, cell service is basically non-existent. Our trip this weekend was the first time we received more than 1 bar in 20 years."
