Tent camping near Litchfield, Connecticut offers outdoor experiences throughout the region's varied terrain at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,300 feet. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with most primitive sites closing after the first significant snowfall. Nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F even in summer months, requiring appropriate sleeping gear for comfort.
What to do
Trail exploration: Onion Mountain Park provides direct access to hiking trails from primitive campsites. Camper Ricky H. notes, "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take." The park's trail system connects to multiple routes of varying difficulty.
River activities: River Highlands State Park River Campground offers riverside camping with water access. "The campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river," reports Alicia B., though she warns campers to "beware of arachnids" in the outhouses.
Wildlife observation: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation maintains trails where deer and smaller mammals are commonly spotted. "The camping sites are very different so it's useful to go in person and select the area," advises Susana M., adding that "dogs are welcome on a leash."
What campers like
Overnight proximity: Alander Trail Campground provides secluded tent sites within 2 miles of trailheads. "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," explains Kay D., who appreciates that "each offer quite a bit of privacy" and that sites include "a fire pit and grill rack, one picnic table, and a bear box."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention site maintenance as a highlight. Liz P. reported about Alander Trail Campground: "The area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere! The outhouse was even clean!"
Year-round options: Unlike seasonal sites, some campgrounds remain open through winter. Paul R. notes about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation: "They have great sights and are open all year round. I've stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping."
What you should know
Reservation systems: Most primitive sites operate on first-come, first-served basis while established campgrounds have varied reservation requirements. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation requires in-person booking: "The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be," notes Paul R.
Water sources: Many tent sites lack running water. At Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground, camper Sara R. enjoyed the "quiet woods atmosphere with trail's" but campers must bring their own drinking water as none is available on site.
Weather considerations: The region experiences rapid temperature changes, particularly in spring and fall. Storms can develop quickly, especially in higher elevation sites near Bear Mountain and Mount Everett. Tent campers should pack appropriate rain gear and cold-weather sleeping equipment even for summer trips.
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly locations: Onion Mountain Park provides beginner-friendly camping experiences. Marshall S. explains, "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."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds feature nature programs or wildlife viewing. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation includes a Trailside Nature Museum that's "fun for the kids," according to Ming R., who adds that "wide open space and the paths are well paved so kids can have fun riding the bikes or running around."
Site selection: When camping with children, consider proximity to facilities. Ming R. observes that sites at Ward Pound Ridge are "much farther away from the comfort stations than most campgrounds," but notes "there are port-a-potties very close to the sites, which is very important when you have young kids."
Tips for RVers
Limited access: Most of the best tent camping near Litchfield requires hiking in, making these sites unsuitable for RVs. However, Sodom Mountain Campground in nearby Southwick, MA offers big-rig friendly access. Camper Brad N. mentions, "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired," noting the new owners have made improvements to the grounds since 2021.
Alternative facilities: RV campers seeking more developed sites should consider commercial campgrounds farther from Litchfield. Within the immediate area, most camping is primitive with few RV accommodations available.
Seasonal considerations: Most roads to tent camping areas around Litchfield close during winter months and after significant rainfall. RVers should verify road conditions and campground accessibility before travel, especially during spring thaw when dirt access roads may be impassable.
