Camping Near Manchester, CT

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Manchester, CT has a lot to offer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Manchester is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Manchester, CT. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Manchester, CT (156)

    Camper-submitted photo from Wilderness Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilderness Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilderness Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilderness Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilderness Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilderness Lake Park

    1. Wilderness Lake Park

    13 Reviews
    18 Photos
    154 Saves
    Willington, Connecticut
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Brialee Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Brialee Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Brialee Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Brialee Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Brialee Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Brialee Family Campground

    2. Brialee Family Campground

    14 Reviews
    37 Photos
    131 Saves
    Ashford, Connecticut

    Brialee Family Campground is located in the Northeast Corner of Connecticut, on 120 acres of beautiful grounds, surrounded by the Natchaug State Forest. A true country setting, with rolling hills, forest, and farms.  Brialee was founded by Ed& Addie Specyalski in 1974, and is still being run by the Specyalski family today! With planned and supervised activities for all ages, staples like ceramics, bingo, free crafts, and live entertainment every weekend, and park amenities like a pond, pool, splash pad, and more.​ Brialee is proud of maintaining a family-run business that has a strong focus and dedication to family camping, and is built on referrals and positive feedback from camping families like you.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $150 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset State Park Campground

    3. Hammonasset State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    71 Photos
    288 Saves
    Clinton, Connecticut

    Hammonasset Beach State Park is the largest of Connecticut’s shoreline parks. Two-mile beach, facilities for swimming, camping (third weekend in May to Columbus Day), picnicking, saltwater fishing, scuba diving, hiking and boating; concessions. Nature center and interpretive programs. Bicycle rentals available through Labor Day, rates begin at $10 per hour and range up to $75 per week, with discounts for children. Helmets provided free to use and are mandatory for riders 15 and younger. Note: Lifeguards on duty on Wednesday through Sunday. Pricing: Weekdays: free for CT vehicles; $15/out-of-state $7 after 4:00 pm. Weekends and holidays: free for CT vehicles; $22/out-of-state $7 after 4:00 pm William F. Miller Campground. 558 open sites. Concession, dumping station, bathrooms, showers. Saltwater swimming and fishing. Individual fireplaces not provided. No pets.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash

    $20 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Waters Edge Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Waters Edge Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Waters Edge Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Waters Edge Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Waters Edge Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Waters Edge Family Campground

    4. Waters Edge Family Campground

    10 Reviews
    17 Photos
    76 Saves
    Amston, Connecticut
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $45 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Compounce Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Compounce Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Compounce Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Compounce Campground

    5. Lake Compounce Campground

    11 Reviews
    4 Photos
    49 Saves
    Bristol, Connecticut

    Lake Compounce Campground is a one-of-a-kind family camping experience located steps away from Lake Compounce Family Theme & Water Park. Lake Compounce Campground provides one-bedroom cabins, two-bedroom cabins, cub huts, tipis, RV spaces, and tent sites. Plus, perks like discounted single-day admission to the park, themed weekends every weekend, family activities, and tons of amenities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Odetah Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Odetah Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Odetah Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Odetah Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Odetah Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Odetah Camping Resort

    6. Odetah Camping Resort

    13 Reviews
    21 Photos
    97 Saves
    Bozrah, Connecticut
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Neck State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Neck State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Neck State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Neck State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Neck State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Neck State Park Campground

    7. Rocky Neck State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    62 Photos
    173 Saves
    South Lyme, Connecticut

    Situated along the scenic Connecticut coastline making great camping near New Haven, Rocky Neck State Park is a is a small recreation area that features white sand beaches, salt marshes, and the rocky remnants of Ice Age glaciers. The park is located about 1 hour southeast of Hartford, near the town of East Lyme, with a view across the sound of Fishers Island, Gardiners Island, and Long Island. The park showcases several examples of ancient glacial terrain, including rock scouring and polishing, potholes and erratic boulders. In some places, the overlying sediment has been completely eroded away to reveal interesting outcrops of banded granitic gneiss.

    The campground at Rocky Neck offers 160 drive-in campsites for tent and RV campers. Visitors can choose from open, grassy sites and wooded, shady sites. Each site is equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, but RV hookups are not available. Sites can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 35 feet; some sites are tent-only. Water faucets, restrooms, and trash/recycling receptacles are located throughout the campground; a dump station is located near the campground entrance. Dogs are not permitted in this park. Camping is available from May through September; sites are $20–$30/night; reservations accepted.

    The main attraction at Rocky Neck is its wide, sandy beach, where visitors can lounge in the sun, or go for a dip in Long Island Sound. The park has several picnic areas for family and group gatherings, several miles of hiking trails for exploring the park’s salt marshes, waterways and natural features, and anglers can fish for saltwater bass, blackfish and flounder. Along the park’s western shore, the historic Ellie Mitchell Pavilion has concessions, and dining and lounging areas. The park also offers a variety of seasonal interpretive programs, guided hikes, wildlife viewing, and evening entertainment.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground

    8. Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    43 Photos
    56 Saves
    Salem, Connecticut

    The water at Devil's Hopyard State Park is unsafe for drinking. Please plan to bring your own water when camping or visiting the park.

    21 wooded sites near scenic waterfall. Stream fishing, no swimming. No pets.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $14 - $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from George Washington State Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from George Washington State Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from George Washington State Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from George Washington State Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from George Washington State Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from George Washington State Campground

    9. George Washington State Campground

    25 Reviews
    67 Photos
    143 Saves
    Pascoag, Rhode Island
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $14 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Charlie Brown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlie Brown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlie Brown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlie Brown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlie Brown Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlie Brown Campground

    10. Charlie Brown Campground

    8 Reviews
    7 Photos
    58 Saves
    Eastford, Connecticut

    THE IDEAL GETAWAY: Charlie Brown Campground is located in the peaceful, pre-revolutionary town of Eastford, Connecticut. It is nestled among rolling hills, sleepy rivers and 12,000 plus acres of state park and forests. With miles of nature trails for horseback riding, biking, walking and some of the best fishing in the state, Charlie Brown Campground offers families an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. GREAT LOCATION: Less than 40 miles from Hartford or Providence, Charlie Brown Campground is far enough to get away from it all but still right in your own back yard. This seasonal campground is well revered for its more than 30 landscaped and manicured acres and especially for its 85 grassy, over sized campsites that are perfect for family gatherings and can easily accommodate the largest RV or camper. FUNCTION HALL RENTAL: Our awesome Recreation Hall with its stone fireplace, new heating system and full kitchen facilities is now available to rent for various functions. Affordable, convenient, and a great place for your special event, the hall might be just right for you. CONVENIENCES: This picturesque campground may be full of country charm but it is still savvy enough to provide guests with wireless, high-speed internet, 16 channels of Direct TV cable and 30 or 50 AMP electrical service, arcade style video games and a large screen TV with full surround sound for watching movies or the big game or race. UNIQUELY SCENIC: With a leisurely drive from Charlie Brown Campground, over scenic byways and through quaint towns formed when the country was still young, you will soon find yourself amongst country fairs, rustic farms, historic landmarks and friendly locals. The swimming hole at CBC marks the head of the Natchaug River. This class IV drop pool river is just as thrilling for kayakers during the spring thaw as it is for the anglers, both young and old, when it slows down during warmer months becoming the second most heavily stocked Trophy Rivers in the state. LOCAL CHARM: Time seems to slow down as you stroll through the areas famous antiques district, visit museums or treat yourself and the kids to a farm fresh ice cream cone at one of the many roadside dairy stands. Just a little further off the beaten path you and your family can experience the New England tradition of crafting maple syrup. At a local sugar house, you can see and taste how sap is collected and then boiled down to make maple syrup and sugar. For another local treat, stop off at one of the areas' many apple orchards. Here you and your children can pick crisp juicy apples right off the trees, pick out a carving pumpkin and even go for a tractor or horse drawn hay ride as you sip on fresh-pressed apple cider. FUN or JUST RELAXING: Whatever your inclination might be, Charlie Brown Campground has many wonderful activities and special events to offer throughout the season. Great care is taken to ensure that there is an abundance of camping activities such as themed weekends, barbecues, moon bounces, pony rides, horseshoe tournaments, entertainment, etc. to choose from so that your stay will not only be fun and memorable, but will keep you coming back again and again.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 156 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Manchester

Recent Reviews in Manchester

630 Reviews of 156 Manchester Campgrounds


  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hopeville Pond State Park Campground
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Hopeville Pond State Park Campground

    Small campground in three sections on Hopeville Pond

    General: There are three sections to this campground: five canoe sites; 16 sites including one cabin behind the ranger station and what I would assume is the main section with 61 sites. Some sites have water and electric hookups, but the majority of the sites have no utilities. Note: Pets are not allowed at this campground!

    Site Quality: We arrived in the rain after the Ranger station had closed and circled the main section several times trying to find the site with the least amount of water. We did not know until the next morning when we went to pay that we ended up in an ADA-accessible site. It was not marked in any way and I’m guessing that the only reason it was designated as such was its proximity to the restrooms. All sites appeared level and even though they were supposed to have gravel pads, they were mostly a mix of dirt (or mud) and grass with a little gravel. 

    Bath/Shower House: In the main section, there is a very large and clean indoor bathhouse with free showers. Did not use the shower so cannot comment. Appreciated that there was immediate hot water at the sinks. The other two sections have vault toilets. 

    Activities/Amenities: In season there is swimming, but the beach is very small. Fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are also popular. There are also some trails for walking/hiking, a basketball hoop, a dump station, and recycling. 

    This was an overnight stay for us but the rate for out-of-state campers, while higher than for residents, was reasonable at $30. We would return to this campground.

  • Ricky H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Onion Mountain Park
    Nov. 5, 2024

    Onion Mountain Park

    Quiet overnight

    Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis. 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. However, it’s not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Niantic KOA
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Niantic KOA

    Future potential?

    We generally only stay in KOAs or similar RV parks when we need showers, laundry, or a dump station. This one was in a convenient location plus many campgrounds had not yet opened for the year when we were there. It had rained for a few days before our arrival and that did not help our first impression as we drove on the rutted and muddy road to our site. There was a sign that improvements are underway, but I am not sure what those planned improvements are and when they will be implemented.

    On the plus side:

    *Friendly and helpful staff. Not sure why when we are given a map an employee escorts us to our site but that is a KOA thing. Later an employee asked if I wanted help carrying our clothes to the laundry.

    * Warm showers (but it did take a while for the water to get warm)

    *Brand new pool that was uncovered but it was way too cold in April to use*Sites were spaced a decent amount of space apart (although there is little physical separation). This was helped by the fact that there was no one on either side of us during our stay.

    *In season, there are many activities to occupy families (pool, playground, mini golf, daily firetruck rides, complimentary shuttle into the town of Niantic); however, we could not take advantage of most of these.

    *Reasonably priced laundry, although the washing machines were smal, and it took two to do what should have been one load. However, the dryers give you 60 minutes so although it took longer to dry, I only had to use one. 

    On the negative side:

    *Unmaintained roadways. The main one was once paved but has not been maintained; others were dirt (and mud after a rain)

    *High price for what we received. Not sure if we received an off-season rate but at $87 per night for a water/electric site and not being able to take advantage of amenities seemed high.

    *Allowing political flags to be displayed at sites. I understand that on private property, this can be allowed at the owner's discretion, but this was offensive to us. 

    Again, this is not our preferred type of camping. Initially, I struggled to give this two stars but once the rain stopped, our stay improved somewhat.

  • Missi N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Northampton / Springfield KOA
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Northampton / Springfield KOA

    Cute little campground

    Quiet (besides occasional plane overhead) lots of trees, spacious sites, clean and modern bathrooms and showers, nice friendly helpful staff.

  • Kathy T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Salt Rock State Campground
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Salt Rock State Campground

    Clean, but dated facilities

    Campground is a bit crowded with sites close together. The facilities were clean but quite old. There are some nice hiking trails along the river.

  • f
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset View Farms
    Sep. 21, 2024

    Sunset View Farms

    Lovely spot in the woods

    We booked last minute (2 hours before we arrived) and were met with the friendliest staff ready to help us at 7:30PM and get us checked in. Perfect spot if you don’t mind a 40 minute ride over to The Big E fair which is what brought us out to this part of MA. The restaurant was so nice, and to my surprise more than accommodating as I have celiac, they really went above and beyond. We will definitely be back next summer for a longer stay.

  • Penny R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Douglas Forest RV Park
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Douglas Forest RV Park

    Dirty & lots of rocks.

    We stayed there waiting to get our trailer repaired. It is dirty & has rubbish all over. No grass, all dirt & rocks. The manager is less than friendly & her husband is worse.

    They are trying to get it ready but it will take years because no one works there except them. Quitting time is about 2pm & the beer refrigerator is open for the rest of the day. They will not help you if you need anything. No store. Pool just got finished but is closed.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crocker's Boatyard
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Crocker's Boatyard

    quiet and surrounded by boats. clean restrooms and lovely pool nice people

    Needed a place to stay for 2 nights , My wife and I were going to show at the Garde Theater. Which was walking distance from the boat yard.

    Had a bite to eat at the Blue Duck, it was fine. Saw the show and walk back to the boat yard.

    The next day we took the ferry to Block Island which was also walking distance from the boat yard. Block Island a must see. Took the 5 pm ferry back. 

    Had dinner at a Thai restaurant which was 5 minutes walking and it was great.

    Sunday we went and visited Fort Trumbull which is also walking distance away. Very nice place to visit and learn.

    Also took a tour of the Coast Guard Ship at Fort Trumbull.

    Head home around 12 pm stopped a Logee's Greenhouse on the way home.

    All and All it was a great get away weekend.

    Thank You Crocker Boat Yard!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettletown State Park Campground
    Sep. 10, 2024

    Kettletown State Park Campground

    Great location, but not a good experience

    Camping Review:

    This campsite is beautifully located in the woods, offering a peaceful and serene environment. There are no busy roads nearby, which ensures a quiet setting during the day.

    However, there are several downsides to consider. The camping spots are uneven, making it challenging to set up tents or campers. Additionally, swimming at the nearby beach is restricted to residents of the village, so visitors are not allowed to swim there.

    During our stay, there were multiple large groups, including a Christian group that preached (screamingly) and played loud music until midnight, despite the designated quiet hours. Unfortunately, the management did nothing to enforce the rules, which was disruptive.

    Another significant issue was the state of the sanitary facilities. They were extremely dirty, with feces present in various places. It took a long time before anything was cleaned, which obviously kept us from using the facilities.

    Overall, while the location is beautiful, the poor management, noise issues, and dirty sanitary facilities seriously detract from the experience.

  • ALEX H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crocker's Boatyard
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Crocker's Boatyard

    Great for a quick stop

    Secure and convenient location. Site can be a bit loud but calms down during the evening . Bathrooms were clean and the pool was amazing. Definitely going back!

  • Cynthia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Wawaloam Campground
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Wawaloam Campground

    Nice!

     Wawaloam Campground in Rhode Island was our 3rd state & campground on our East Coast trip. Not a lot of choices in Rhode Island, but we liked this camp ground in a rural wooded area. 

       This is kid heaven. Families laughing & enjoying themselves. Besides the pool they have a splash pad, a water slide, mini golf, a nice pond for fishing. The playground is nice. The grounds are well taken care of. The bathroom& showers were checked often. The showers are now free!

      In wooded, rural Rhode Island, but an easy day trip to Newport.

  • Cynthia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset State Park Campground
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Hammonasset State Park Campground

    Connecticut

       I had a hankering for East Coast seafood, so I picked Hammonesett Beach State Park for Connecticut. Our 2nd state of 5.

        Hammonesett Beach has a huge campground. They divide the loops with names. I unfortunately chose Pequot. This loop has THE WORST bathrooms/showers on the South side of the campground. Looks like they were built in 1950s with rotten wood siding. Dirty. The showers were outside the bathroom- there was a bench & hooks OUTSIDE! We found out all the other loops had modern bathhouses.

     My first impression of this campground is it's loud, crazy busy & there's traffic noise from the beach road. I actually liked it! This is a fun campground for families. There were kids on bikes, scooters, skateboards,roller blades. Watch your speed! They don't always watch out for your car.

      I found out most people stay through Sunday & leave on Monday. There were still lots of campers left. Lots of tent campers. 

       I chose site 14 on the Pequot Loop because I thought I would have a view of one of the ponds. There was tall vegetation, so that was out.

     The sites on the other side of the loop were right by the main beach road. Noisy during the day, but quiet at night. 

      There are some sites with shade, but most are sunny. 

       There's no electricity at most of the sites. Our site was full sun(yay for the solar panel!). On Beach Road in the campground there's 2 rows of full hookup sites, but they go FAST! I tried.

    NO PETS! Including dogs.

       No WiFi, but there's cell service. At least 5 dump stations. 

     The beach was popular. 

      There was a stream running from a pond that kids were playing in. 

     They have a beautiful Nature Center. A couple of easy hikes through one of the preserves.

      This was a good base camp for the area. Gillette Castle & other state parks are within driving distance. Connecticut is a beautiful state!!

  • carol T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Waters Edge Family Campground
    Aug. 23, 2024

    Waters Edge Family Campground

    BEWARE WATERS EDGE CAMPGROUNDS THEY WILL KEEP ALL YOUR MONEY

    JUNE 30,2024  my husband & I were seasonals at waters edge campground Lebanon Connecticuit  gave them a 30 day notice we were leaving this place wasnt for us just awful the owners are just money hungey thieves they told us they were keeping our deposit wich we expected because it says non refundable deposit so okay fine but we paid for the whole season its open april15 to october15 gave a 30 day notice left june 30 they refused to give us back the money for july ,august,september,to october 15 they ket 750 plus 2500 dollars told us were not getting our money back So iam sure they rented the site thats double dipping so fair warning I dont want this to happen to anyone else they will Rob you blind oh and they broke our ice maker when they dewinterized our trailer and never owned up to it came down to my floor in camper soaked with water from my freezer and didnr bother to clean tthe mess and said  it must have been broken nefore so they are also dirty liars I didnt want to even give a one star rating but had to put somethin i give the a big fat 0

  • Steve Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crocker's Boatyard
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Crocker's Boatyard

    Great night at the Marina

    Easy access to the boatyard at night; pulled in, picked a spot and all good.

    Enjoyed the pool.

    Walked to Fort Trumbull.

    Recommend Crockers.

  • SomadNomad M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Granville State Forest
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Granville State Forest

    Gotta chance

    Dyrt says $17-$54 went through all the hoops to book one for tonight said $17 per night went to check out expecting a few extra fees, $58.50.....that's over the max advertised....DYRT YOU NEED TO GO THROUGH AND DELETE BAD ENTRIES. YOU ARE A DISSAPOINTMENT.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crocker's Boatyard
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Crocker's Boatyard

    boat yard camping!!!

    We were here on an extremely hot and humid couple days.  It was great to have electric and water hookups.  Also being able to use their pool with our grandchildren was great.  They were very accommodating with all our questions and needs.  No trees but its a boat yeard.  And very interesting to watch the goings on at a boat yard

  • Matt S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mystic KOA
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Mystic KOA

    Great campground for coastal CT & RI

    We stayed at Mystic KOA in North Stonington, Connecticut, to be tourists in Mystic. Spoiler alert… we had a great stay! 

    This campground is just 15-minutes from Mystic and about an hour’s drive to Newport, Rhode Island. It’s just a few minutes from I-95 and so close to Mystic Aquarium, downtown Mystic, Mystic Seaport, and all the local spots. 

    It’s a well-maintained campground with 2 pools(though the larger one was closed for maintenance during our stay), lots of play areas and daily activities for little ones, and a cool“pub truck” for adult drinks. Our site(#408) was about 85’ long with plenty of room for our 45’ motorhome and toad(and then some!). It was level and gravel with a nice fire ring and picnic table. The hookups worked fine with 50-amp electric and decent water pressure. Cable TV had nearly 50-channels, but the wi-fi didn’t quite reach our part of the park. 

    Due to a family issue, we needed to leave about a day-and-a-half early. We called the office as a courtesy to let them know as we were pulling out and received a partial credit for a night’s stay on our credit card. Didn’t even ask, they just did it. Thanks Mystic KOA! 

    We’ll definitely be back. This is a great place to stay when visiting the coastal Connecticut/Rhode Island area.

  • G Y.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Waramaug State Park Campground
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Lake Waramaug State Park Campground

    Quiet Rustic Camping

    My family has been camping at Lake Waramaug for over 20 years. I can say most of what’s been said is true or partially so but whether it’s bad or good depends on your point of view. Note that we are a Scout family and my husband and son have camped many days well off the grid with only the gear and food in their backpacks. That skews our point of view. 

    First off, Connecticut’s state campgrounds are not KOA’s. 

    Do not expect top of the line activities that private campgrounds have.

    What it does have are clean, large sites that are partially wooded and not out in the open. 

    The lake is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoes and for fishing. Bring your own gear but kayak and canoe rentals are available. The swim area is marginal- best for little ones. 

    This park is remote from all conveniences- pack it in or expect a drive. There have been several times I’ve driven to the Dunkin Donuts miles down the road for coffee but I find using a French press is more convenient. For takeout there’s the White Horse on 202. It’s ranked a top restaurant in the state - the food is good. 

    Never have we had issues with wildlife besides squirrels and ducks. Leave no trace is important - it keeps the unwelcome wildlife out. 

    There have been issues with the bathrooms off and on over the decades. It seems like they’ve finally fixed everything. Our trip of 7/27-28 showed everything was fine.

    The only on-site services are firewood and ice sales. The little food shack is out of business. 

    Yes, cell service is basically non-existent. Our trip this weekend was the first time we received more than 1 bar in 20 years. Actually we were a bit disappointed because this camp ground is a great place to disconnect and relax. Being forced to put away the devices is heaven in my mind. You can drive about 5+ minutes out and get cell service. Regarding rowdiness, of the 20+ times we’ve camped only twice was it a problem. 

    Also, this place is not glamping. The area is rural, so cows do moo at 6am, and kids are up even earlier. If you like to sleep in skip and rent a B&B. 

    Also if you want a better place to swim go to Mt.Tom state park about 10 minutes up the road. It’s a day use only park-no camping- but the lake is gorgeous and there are very few people there.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Peppertree Camping
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Peppertree Camping

    Amazing stay

    We had our very first camping experience with our new camper at this campground and it was everything we could have imagined and more. It’s a beautiful campground, the gentleman and his family who own it are sooooo nice and they helped us a lot when it came to learning how to properly use our camper. All the fellow campers that we met were extremely nice. It’s a quiet campground, located right on a river. My children spent hours in it playing and fishing. Looking forward to returning.

  • Laura D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Brialee Family Campground
    Jul. 10, 2024

    Brialee Family Campground

    Best Camping Experience

    This was our families first time staying at Brialee Campground.  The cabin was absolutely beautiful and clean.  The staff were friendly and helpful. The activities were great and kept my grand children busy.  Swimming and the lake were fun.  I cannot say enough wonderful things.  We had such a great time I booked my reservations for Next July 2025 before I left.

    A special thank you to Sherri for the personal tour and showing us the ropes!  She is the best.

    The D'Avanzo Family

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Park
    Jul. 10, 2024

    Strawberry Park

    Large campground with 3 pools, many amenities and scheduled activities

    Large campground with 3 pools, many amenities and scheduled activities



Guide to Manchester

Camping near Manchester, CT, offers a mix of beautiful nature and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Hammonasset State Park Campground, are close to the beach. Campers enjoy the convenience of walking or driving to the beach without extra fees. One reviewer mentioned, "The beach was popular," highlighting its appeal for families.
  • Nature Trails: Explore the beautiful hiking trails available at places like George Washington State Campground. A visitor noted, "There are some great hiking trails and views of the lake," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing and Snorkeling: Campers at October Mountain State Forest can enjoy fishing and hiking. One camper shared, "The trails were completely perfectly maintained," which is great for those looking to explore.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground stated, "Bathrooms are very nice," which is a big plus for many.
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Mystic KOA mentioned, "Our site was about 85’ long with plenty of room for our motorhome," making it comfortable for larger groups.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Pine Acres Family Camping Resort are designed for families. One reviewer said, "The entire place is completely geared to families," emphasizing its welcoming vibe.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially during weekends. A camper at Rocky Neck State Park Campground noted, "Overnight noise was an issue," which might be something to consider if you're looking for peace and quiet.
  • Booking in Advance: Popular spots like Hammonasset State Park Campground fill up quickly. One family shared, "If you are looking for a site it’s best to book far in advance."
  • Pet Policies: Not all campgrounds allow pets. For instance, Rocky Neck State Park Campground has a strict no-pets policy, so check before you go.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with organized activities. A reviewer at Mystic KOA mentioned, "Daily activities for little ones," which can keep kids entertained.
  • Safety First: Be mindful of traffic in campgrounds like Pine Acres Family Camping Resort. One parent warned, "Not safe for little ones as there is too much traffic."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along items like bug spray and sunscreen. A camper at Wells State Park Campground noted, "The mosquitoes here were something out of a Soviet lab," so be prepared!

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Choose campgrounds with level sites for easier setup. A visitor at Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground mentioned, "The back half of the campground has 50@ full hookups with much longer and level sites."
  • Check Hookups: Ensure your campground has the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Mystic KOA appreciated the "50 AMP, sewer & water hookup," which made their stay comfortable.
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Some campgrounds may not have dump stations on-site. A camper at Wells State Park Campground noted, "No dump station on site," so plan accordingly.

Camping near Manchester, CT, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to check the specific amenities and policies of each campground to ensure a great experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular campground near Manchester, CT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Manchester, CT is Wilderness Lake Park with a 4.5-star rating from 13 reviews.

  • What parks are near Manchester, CT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Manchester, CT that allow camping, notably Northfield Brook Lake and Westville Lake.