Tent camping options in the Lakeside, Connecticut area concentrate along the western edge of the Taconic Mountain range, with elevations ranging from 500 to over 2,300 feet at Bear Mountain summit. This region forms part of the larger Housatonic watershed, with numerous small streams and brooks feeding into the river system. Primitive camping sites typically feature native hardwood forest floor with occasional rock outcroppings requiring careful tent placement.
What to do
Morning hikes to lookouts: At Mountain Lakes Park, trails lead directly from campgrounds to several viewpoints overlooking the surrounding lakes. "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it," notes one Mountain Lakes Park visitor.
Trail running: The interconnected trail system allows for varied running routes from most campsites. "The property and hikes are magical. No car noise or nonsense," reports a camper at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, which features over 40 miles of trails.
Creek exploration: Many sites provide access to small waterways for cooling off in summer months. "On the way, you pass the Brassie Brook Lean-to and it's about another mile to Riga. As I said earlier, we stayed for one night at Riga, and after hitting the bear mountain summit, we turned back to spend the night at Brassie Brook," shares one hiker describing the natural water features near Brassie Brook Shelter.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent sites offer natural separation through vegetation and terrain. "Each spot is easy to find off the trail. They also have bear boxes at each site! Although we were the only campers at the time the area was immaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere!" reports a visitor to Alander Trail Campground.
Overnight access points: Multiple parking areas serve as gateways to the best tent camping near Lakeside, Connecticut. "We arrived at the parking lot of Onion Mountain Park at around 2 pm and proceeded to get our bags packed for the hike. I saw in the other review, that it is classified as a walk-in but it's definitely more of a hike," notes one Onion Mountain Park camper.
Night sky viewing: Several open areas provide stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. "There's elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing. You have the options of a lean to here," mentions a camper at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
What you should know
Limited water availability: Most backcountry sites require water filtration or carrying supplies. "No facilities that I can think of, but there are a few lean-to's scattered off the looping road," reports a Mountain Lakes Park visitor.
Site access challenges: Many tent sites require substantial hiking with gear. "Can't make a reservation but beautiful campground that is about a mile hike from the trailhead," notes an Alander Trail camper, while another adds: "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots."
Bear awareness requirements: Wildlife encounters necessitate proper precautions. "They give you a semi-flat area for a tent, a fire pit and grill rack, one picnic table, and a bear box you would be sharing with other campers nearby," explains a visitor to Alander Trail Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options for easier setup: For families new to tent camping, lean-to structures provide partial shelter. "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience," reports a Riga Lean-To visitor who adds, "We absolutely loved this little lean-to next to Bear Mountain."
Scout-friendly locations: Certain sites cater well to youth groups. "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," shares an Onion Mountain Park visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Weather conditions change dramatically across seasons. "We did have some sun spots at least throughout the trip. Great weekend overnight backpacking," notes a camper at Brassie Brook Shelter, while another mentions, "Our trip was sadly cut short because we were freezing and it was raining a lot LOL but hey it's part of the experience. The fall views made it worth it."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most sites near Lakeside are tent-only with few RV accommodations. The few RV-accessible campgrounds like Windmill Hill have specific restrictions. "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean," reports a recent visitor, though RV hookups are not available.
Alternative weekend stays: For RVers seeking shorter stays, some sites offer parking with walk-in tent options. "The camping sites are very different so it's useful to go in person and select the area. Parking is close, but some of the sites are also pretty close to each other so there is less privacy," explains a Ward Pound Ridge Reservation camper.
Drive-to-hike options: RVers can park at trailheads and day hike to tent sites. "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis. Other posts claim you can park right at the site, but you cannot. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take," shares a recent Onion Mountain Park visitor.
