Primitive tent campsites near Lakeville, Connecticut offer access to rugged New England terrain characterized by rocky woodland trails and elevations ranging from 700 to 2,316 feet at Bear Mountain's summit. The region receives approximately 50 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest conditions. Most backcountry camping areas require proper food storage due to active black bear populations throughout the Berkshire Mountains and Litchfield Hills.
What to do
Summit hikes: Bear Mountain requires preparation for challenging terrain. At Brassie Brook Shelter, campers advise: "We started our hike at the under-mountain trailhead, located right off route 41, and climbed up the mountain. Be prepared for steep inclines, and lots of rocks. After about a mile, you reach a trail intersection, stay left and continue up the hill."
Overnight backpacking: Sages Ravine connects several camping areas. A visitor to Laurel Ridge noted: "We began by making the hike up Mount Race. No matter where you start, you'll be hiking on some of the steepest parts of the Appalachian Trail in the northwestern Connecticut and southwestern Massachusetts... There's a sheer drop-off of hundreds of feet spreading out into a massive valley scene below."
Primitive camping: Mount Washington State Forest has secluded sites requiring pack-in gear. Campers at Alander Trail Campground report: "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. Once you get there, theres quite a few sites to choose from and each offer quite a bit of privacy."
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Remote camping locations offer genuine wilderness experiences. At Alander Trail Campground, a visitor noted: "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 emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere!"
Fall foliage viewing: Autumn camping provides spectacular seasonal color. A Brassie Brook camper shared: "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."
Trail connectivity: The tent camping areas near Lakeville connect to extensive trail systems. A hiker at Laurel Ridge explained: "The next morning we headed down Sages Ravine (awesome!) and towards/past Bear Mountain onto Undermountain Trail. This was overall no easy hike in any way, so if you are not in moderate shape I would not recommend this to you."
What you should know
Food storage requirements: Black bears are active throughout the region. At Onion Mountain Park, campers advise: "We did put a bear bag about 100 feet away" and note that "There are a lot of bugs so be prepared."
Primitive facilities: Most backcountry sites have minimal amenities. At Alander Trail Campground: "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."
Weather preparation: Mountain conditions change rapidly. One camper at Brassie Brook Shelter reports: "We spent the night at Brassie Brook. Firepits, toilets but that's about it. Leave NO Trace! We had a phenomenal time, and definitely recommend!"
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Some sites work well for first-time backcountry campers. At Onion Mountain Park, a visitor noted: "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 so no need for a bear bag."
Accessible walk-in sites: For families with younger children, some locations offer easier access. A camper reported: "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis... However, it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."
Weather planning: Mountain weather varies significantly. A Brassie Brook camper shared their experience: "We did have some sun spots at least throughout the trip. Great weekend overnight backpacking."
Tips for RVers
Alternative options: While most camping near Lakeville is primitive tent sites, RVers can find accommodations at Windmill Hill - White Memorial Campground. A visitor noted: "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean."
Parking limitations: Many trailhead parking areas restrict larger vehicles. At Onion Mountain Park: "Other posts claim you can park right the site, but you can not. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take."
Base camping strategy: RV campers can use established campgrounds as bases for day hikes. A camper at White Memorial noted the "Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's," making it suitable for RVers who want access to hiking without backpacking.
