Tent camping options near Manchester, Connecticut range from riverside sites to secluded forest locations with varying accessibility and amenities. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F and spring/fall camping offering cooler temperatures with colorful foliage. Winter camping is limited at most sites due to seasonal closures and freezing temperatures.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Chapman Pond Preserve offers tent platforms with direct access to hiking trails. As one camper noted, "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view. Good site."
Water activities: Gillette Castle State Park Campground provides riverside camping with swimming and fishing opportunities. A camper shared, "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."
Historical exploration: Tent campers can explore nearby attractions like Gillette Castle. According to a visitor, "Great place for a hike or a picnic. Castle has tours at certain times."
What campers like
Island camping experience: Selden Neck State Park Campground offers a unique island camping experience accessible only by boat. A camper described, "Selden Neck State Park is an island in the Connecticut River with no roads or development other than 4 campsites. 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."
Quieter sites: Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground provides a peaceful wooded setting. One visitor commented, "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trails. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean."
Social camping: Some tent campsites near Manchester are better suited for groups. At Onion Mountain Park, a camper observed, "Did an overnight camp out with a buddy here. All in all not bad. Very busy, not a place if you want solitude."
What you should know
Access variations: Many campsites require different approaches. At Onion Mountain Park, a camper clarified, "Other posts claim you can park right at the site, but you cannot. 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."
Primitive conditions: Most forest camping areas have minimal facilities. A camper at Onion Mountain Park advised, "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night. The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent."
Weather considerations: River campsites can experience fog and changing conditions. A Selden Neck camper reported, "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
Beginner-friendly options: River Highlands State Park River Campground offers accessible camping for families. A visitor noted, "We only visited for the day and left around dawn, but the campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river."
Teaching opportunities: Some campgrounds serve as ideal training grounds for young campers. One visitor shared about Onion Mountain Park: "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."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for potential wildlife encounters. At River Highlands, a camper cautioned, "As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Tips from RVers
Unique alternatives: For families seeking a blend of tent and cabin camping, Chester Railway Station offers an unusual option. A visitor explained, "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too. You hear the trains running at night. Very clean and comfortable."
Campground transitions: Some campgrounds are undergoing improvements. At Sodom Mountain Campground, a long-term camper reported, "This campground has improved with the new owners as of 2021. All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back. Great Wi-Fi now, store has been redone."
Reserve early: For boat-in tent sites, planning is essential. A Selden Neck camper advised, "Entering and parking at the boat launch requires a permit Memorial Day to Labor Day. It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island. If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags."
