Tent campgrounds near Lebanon, Connecticut provide access to the forests and river systems of eastern Connecticut. Elevations in this region remain modest, generally under 500 feet, with seasonal temperature variations creating ideal camping conditions in spring and fall. Summer humidity levels frequently exceed 70%, impacting comfort during overnight stays in July and August.
What to do
Kayaking access: Selden Neck State Park Campground requires a 20-minute paddle across the Connecticut River from Deep River Landing. "You have to kayak or boat in. There's a boat launch across from the island on the west side of the river at Deep River Landing where you can leave your car," explains Jason S., who recommends waterproof bags due to boat wake.
Swimming options: River Highlands State Park River Campground offers swimming access directly from campsites. A camper noted, "The campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river," though they advise being prepared for natural inhabitants like wolf spiders in outhouses.
Hiking trails: Onion Mountain Park provides hiking access to primitive camping via color-coded trails. "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night," shares Nora S., who recommends smaller tents as the sites aren't suitable for large groups.
What campers like
Island camping: Tent campers appreciate the isolation of Selden Neck State Park, which features four boat-access campsites on an undeveloped island. "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," notes a visitor who camped at the Hogback site.
Fire features: Onion Mountain Park offers established fire rings at primitive tent sites. "The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent but has a firepit already set up. We set up the tent and started a fire (very easy as there are sticks and wood everywhere)," reports Nora S.
River views: Gillette Castle State Park Campground offers boat-accessible sites with water views. A regular camper shares, "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."
What you should know
Boat-in requirements: Parking permits apply at some boat launches during peak season. For Selden Neck access, "Entering and parking at the boat launch requires a permit Memorial Day to Labor Day," according to Jason S., who visited with his 5-year-old.
Primitive conditions: Chapman Pond Preserve offers basic amenities including tent platforms. "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view," notes Ben L., describing it as a "middle of nowhere site."
Bug preparation: Insects become prevalent in warmer months at forest sites. One camper at Onion Mountain Park cautions, "There are a lot of bugs so be prepared, and we did put a bear bag about 100 feet away."
Weather considerations: Early morning fog can impact boat travel on the Connecticut River. A Selden Neck camper reports, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly sites: Buck Hill Campground offers group camping appropriate for scouting activities. "This is a great rural no frills campground," writes Greg R., noting "All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents), many of the sites are also along Wakefield Pond."
Kid-friendly water access: Some river sites provide natural beach areas when water levels drop. A camper mentions Selden Neck has areas where "at low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on."
Beginner camping: Several sites accommodate first-time campers with drive-up access. "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 Marshall S. about Onion Mountain Park.
Tips from RVers
Tent-primary locations: Most Lebanon area campgrounds cater specifically to tent camping with limited RV accommodations. Hidden Lake Farm restricts capacity to just 5 sites total, providing drinking water, showers and toilets for tent campers but no hookups for RVs.
Arrival planning: Campsites fill quickly during summer months. At Onion Mountain, sites operate on "first come first served basis," according to Ricky H., who clarifies that despite what some believe, "you can not [park right at the site]. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take."
