165 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The camping landscape surrounding Manchester, Connecticut encompasses a mix of developed campgrounds and natural settings within a 30-mile radius. Several established campgrounds cater to different camping styles, including The Quarry Campground with its multiple accommodation options and Wilderness Lake Park offering tent, RV, and glamping experiences. Most campgrounds in the region provide amenities ranging from basic to full-service, with some featuring lakefront access, hiking trails, and recreational facilities.
Campground reservations are generally recommended throughout the region, particularly during the peak summer season when sites fill quickly. Most facilities operate from April through October or early November, with limited winter availability. "The staff is super nice, the sites aren't on top of each other, but close enough to say hi to your neighbors in the morning," noted one visitor about Nelson's Family Campground. Road access to most established campgrounds is suitable for passenger vehicles, though some tent-only areas may require short walks from parking areas. Cell service varies throughout the region, with more remote areas experiencing limited coverage.
Lakefront and riverside camping opportunities attract many visitors to the area's campgrounds. Water-based recreation forms a central part of the camping experience at locations like Wilderness Lake Park, where complimentary kayaks and canoes are available to guests. According to one camper, "The lake was quiet and we saw kids swimming in it in the morning. There was a hiking trail on the property." Several campgrounds feature family-friendly amenities such as swimming areas, fishing ponds, playgrounds, and organized activities. While many sites offer electric and water hookups for RVs, tent campers can find secluded spots in wooded areas at several campgrounds. Seasonal campers occupy a significant portion of sites at some campgrounds, creating established communities during summer months. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region, with natural settings providing habitat for various bird species and small mammals.
"Connecticut is LACKING when it comes to outdoor activities when compared to some of the places around the country."
"It’s a dog friendly park which was good for us, our dog could swim in the lake with us. Cute patio overlooking the lake as well with seating."
from $70 / night
Check Availability"We came to discover new bike trails and this one was close to the Hop bike trail which we enjoyed very much"
from $45 - $68 / night
Check Availability"Swimming lake, canoeing lake, pool, playgrounds. Choice of shade in trees or open field. Nice sites. Decent laundry and showers. Great place with kids.....lots of seasonal, but plenty short term."
"Nice hiking around the area. Bathrooms are clean. Good for kids/families."
from $25 - $150 / night
Check Availability"We’ve been to campgrounds with playgrounds worse than the waters edge dog park."
"This is our families favorite camping location. On the pond at Waters Edge. When asked where they want to camp my 5 and 7 year old will always respond with Waters Edge."
from $45 - $100 / night
Check Availability"Affiliated with Lake Compounce Amusement Park adjacent to campground."
"It is adjacent to an amusement park so there were lots of families here. None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out."
"We only visited for the day and left around dawn, but the campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river."
from $5 / night
Check Availability"There are trails behind the sites along a large marsh. The wildlife was incredible, a beaver family family lives in the marsh so every night around 10 they would be up splashing around loudly."
"The sites are very open, not wooded so you have little privacy from adjacent sites."
from $14 / night
Check Availability"Tucked away in the woods I never knew this was there! Beautiful pond and a good mix of seasonal and overnight sites as well as cabins. Plenty of areas to walk our dogs and have them swim."
"Has a nice beach on a pond, a very cool splash pad next to the pool which all looked very clean. There is a snack shack next to the pond with a play scape and horseshoes."
"However one issue was the garbage situation. Had to walk a long distance to throw out the trash."
"We got a tent spot and it was perfect since it was the furthest one away and there was no one near us which is probably why we loved it so much bc we were so isolated. a little disappointed in the site"
from $50 - $62 / night
Check Availability
ScoutWe picked this campground because we wanted to explore both Connecticut and Rhode Island without changing campsites halfway through the trip. It worked really well for that. We spent most of the day out exploring and came back in the evening to make dinner at the RV. Much more relaxing than bouncing between hotels.
ScoutBrought our dog along and really appreciated having a trail we could walk together. It was nice being able to get out for a walk without even leaving the campground.
ScoutStayed for a weekend. Staff was super friendly and the park was very clean. Enjoyed some fishing and caught some small trout with my kids. Very relaxing and enjoyed our stay.
ScoutI do not recommend staying at this campsite. As you can't drive to the Campsite, as you have to come on a kayak or canoe.
TravelerOverall a superb spot to either stay put and enjoy the camp, park and beach or to use as a base to explore the region. Huge campground, yet peaceful. Online map would make it seem spaces are tight but it is a very big area and so ample room to stretch out your space. Not a lot of privacy as most spaces are out in the open or light tree area but it is not an invasive feeling situation. Very popular for CT families with biking, walking and the beautiful beach right here. Lots of grass, level sites. A few sites have electric but not many and this seems to be the big rig area. Most people are tent or small camper setups. Bathrooms clean, hot water reasonable temp. Dish washing stations at each restroom. Movies at night (kids). The state park is really pretty and well maintained. The area towns are very pretty and remarkably quiet in general (not many tourist traps) and its easy to access various shoreline parks, drives, viewpoints. I'd avoid the spots very nearest the park road as it does get a lot of day visitors to the park/beach. I'm here late August and schools go back this week so midweek the campground is less than half full but I believe it will fill for the weekend.
ScoutWe brought the camper for a quick two-night getaway and spent most of our time doing absolutely nothing. Cooked outside, read a little, and finally slowed down for a weekend.
ScoutWe came up for two nights with our tent and ended up wishing we had booked another. Nothing fancy about our weekend, just cooking outside, sleeping under the trees, and enjoying some time away.
ScoutWe use Oakhaven as our first camping trip of the year typically it’s near a home less an hour away yet it feels like it’s much further. Well, located in a small community in southwestern Massachusetts. You can access a lot of tourist areas for day trips if you’re so inclined like Sturbridge mass or the Cobb and Reservoir area. This is a great campground for dogs nice areas to take a walk and also out into the main town area. Owners are pretty chill. There isn’t a ton of activities or special events. Just a few to keep things interesting. Camp store is well stocked.
Scoutgreat location, with pool, electric and bathrooms/showers. close to ferry
The region surrounding Manchester, Connecticut encompasses a variety of established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, offering experiences from rustic tent camping to full-service RV resorts with cabin options. Notable locations include Wilderness Lake Park in Willington, which provides tent, RV, and glamping accommodations along a scenic lake, and The Quarry Campground with its 115 sites featuring both tent and RV setups. Several family-oriented resorts like Nelson's Family Campground and Waters Edge Family Campground supplement the camping landscape, creating a mix of private resort-style facilities and more basic camping areas.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October or early November, closing during winter months. "The campground is peaceful and quiet. Lots of wooded sites available," noted one visitor about Nelson's Family Campground. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when facilities frequently reach capacity. Many private campgrounds accept only cash payment, with Wilderness Lake Park specifically mentioned as accepting "cash or Venmo only." Full hookup RV sites are limited at some facilities, with several reviews indicating these premium spots are often reserved for seasonal campers, leaving shorter-term visitors with partial hookups.
Waterfront camping represents a distinctive feature across several properties, with lakes providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, and paddling. Several visitors highlighted the availability of complimentary watercraft as a significant amenity. According to one camper at Wilderness Lake Park, "The lake is nice and the hiking is good. The staff was friendly and helpful." Campground layouts typically include a combination of wooded and open sites, with varying levels of privacy. While some locations offer secluded tent areas set back from main camping zones, others feature more communal settings. Amenities range considerably, from basic facilities with portable toilets to comprehensive resorts with recreation halls, swimming pools, organized activities, and on-site stores. Public lands with primitive camping options are notably limited in this region compared to private campground options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping sites near Manchester?
Connecticut offers several excellent camping options near Manchester. Hammonasset State Park Campground is a beautiful beachfront option with well-maintained facilities, a camp store, and easy access to local amenities. For those seeking a more nature-focused experience, Hopeville Pond State Park Campground provides swimming, fishing, and hiking opportunities with family-friendly biking trails. Both parks are within reasonable driving distance from Manchester and offer different camping experiences - coastal versus woodland settings. Most campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially during peak summer months, so booking in advance is recommended.
Are there any cabin campgrounds available near Manchester?
Yes, there are cabin options available near Manchester. Mystic KOA in North Stonington offers cabin accommodations in addition to their regular campsites. This well-maintained campground is approximately an hour's drive from Manchester and provides excellent amenities including a pool and well-stocked store. It's strategically located just 15 minutes from Mystic attractions and about an hour from Newport, Rhode Island. For a more rustic experience, consider Waters Edge Family Campground near Lebanon, which offers cabin rentals with access to water recreation. Reservations are strongly recommended for both locations, especially during the peak summer season.
What are the best tent camping options near Manchester?
For tent campers near Manchester, Wilderness Lake Park offers excellent secluded tent sites despite being primarily an RV park. The campground provides a refreshing experience with lakeside settings and is considered a hidden gem in Connecticut's limited outdoor offerings. Another great option is Rocky Neck State Park Campground, which provides affordable tent sites ($33/night) with nearby bathhouse facilities. Located on Long Island Sound, it offers a unique coastal camping experience with beach access. Both locations have clean facilities and provide a true outdoor experience, though Rocky Neck doesn't offer hookups, making it perfect for traditional tent camping.
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