The Lakeside, Connecticut area sits at the edge of the Berkshire foothills, with elevations ranging from 400-700 feet above sea level. Many campgrounds in this region operate primarily between April and October, though select RV parks offer year-round access. Winter temperatures can drop well below freezing, making seasonal closure common for water systems at most locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Taconic State Park, campers can catch largemouth bass from Rudd Pond. "The sites were a little close together, but being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!! There is plenty of fishing access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day to fish on the water," notes Rosie R.
Swimming beaches: Many RV sites near Lakeside, Connecticut include lake access with dedicated swimming areas. "There's a swimming beach and during non-covid times, boat rentals," explains Katherine P. about Taconic State Park. Local lakes typically warm enough for comfortable swimming by mid-June through early September.
Hiking trails: The region offers numerous day hikes ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, "There's a trailhead at the end of the campground that connects to the other trails in Taconic State Park," says Katherine P. Many trails provide lake views within a 1-2 mile walk from campsites.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain regular cleaning schedules for bathhouses and public areas. At Lake Taghkanic State Park, "Bathrooms and showers are clean and the water stayed hot until the last weekend of the season," reports Seth K. Most parks clean restrooms daily during peak season.
Water recreation: Lakes provide focal points for activities at many campgrounds. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards/kyacks etc. Worth every penny," writes Mellisa T. about Lake Taghkanic State Park. Rental equipment often available on-site at many parks.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting allows for excellent night sky viewing. "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," notes Seth K. Light restrictions at most campgrounds help preserve dark sky conditions after 10 PM.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campgrounds vary widely in site spacing and privacy. "The campsites are pretty close together, so if the campground is full, you are rather close to your neighbors," notes Katherine P. about Taconic State Park. Sites at park edges or on loops furthest from amenities typically offer more seclusion.
Reservation timing: Peak season fills quickly, particularly for sites with full hookups. "This year the most basic site with water costs $46; add electric on up to sewer and cable tv and you'll pay as much as $60/night," Jean C. reports about Interlake RV Park. Weekends book 2-3 months in advance during summer.
Wi-Fi limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by campground location and proximity to towns. "Better wi-fi than most campgrounds. My wife and I both were able to work with mostly no issues, though there were some situations where it would go out," notes Charlie & Danielle B. about Branch Brook Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Many campgrounds provide organized events for children. "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing," explains Sandra S. about Prospect Mountain Campground. Check activity calendars when booking to align with preferred events.
Platform tent sites: Several parks offer raised tent platforms ideal for families with young children. "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!" writes Rosie R. about Lake Taghkanic. Platforms stay drier during rain and provide level sleeping surfaces.
Bike-friendly roads: Campground loops typically have 5-10 mph speed limits, creating safe zones for children. "The kids had a blast fishing and riding their bikes around," reports Megin F. about Prospect Mountain Campground. Some parks designate specific times for bike-riding activities.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup specifications: RV sites near Lakeside, Connecticut typically offer various amperage options. At Cozy Hills Campground, sites provide both "30-amp and 50-amp electrical options" with water and sewer connections. Bring adapters for flexibility.
Site leveling requirements: Terrain affects campsite quality for motorhomes and trailers. "Most sites seem pretty level, but there are some steep roads in the CG," advises Michael H. about Gentiles Campground. Request specific site information when making reservations.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites provide full hookups. "It doesn't have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station on the way out," notes Tina about Lake Compounce Campground. Plan tank usage accordingly for stays longer than 3-4 days without sewer connections.
