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!
