Connecticut's eastern region near Mansfield Center sits at elevations between 400-600 feet, characterized by rolling hills, deciduous forests, and numerous waterways. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with July and August temperatures averaging 75-85°F during daytime hours. Most campgrounds in this region offer a mixture of wooded sites and open field camping areas, with many providing waterfront access to ponds, lakes, or rivers.
What to do
Hiking local trails: West Thompson Lake Campground features several well-maintained hiking trails surrounding its 22-site property, including a disc golf course on the grounds. According to one camper, "There are plenty of hiking trails that we have yet to explore, but from the trail heads they look very well maintained."
River activities: Charlie Brown Campground sits adjacent to the Natchaug River, providing excellent river access. Visitors appreciate the natural water features: "This was our first time visiting and my entire family enjoyed themselves so much, that we've already reserved a site for a few weeks from now. Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river."
Water recreation: Wilderness Lake Park offers complimentary watercraft use for guests. One reviewer noted, "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake. Quaint little campground. Not many tenting sites but along a beautiful lake. Bring your own kayaks or use the campgrounds free of charge."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Some glamping sites near Mansfield Center offer more seclusion than others. At Wilderness Lake Campground, a visitor mentioned, "The host gave us a secluded spot in the back to the point I didn't feel like I was at a campground other than the fire ring."
Family activities: Brialee Family Campground schedules regular programming for all ages. A reviewer shared, "Have visited this campground many many times and have never been disappointed. Plenty of activities and things for kids to do; Rec hall, mini golf, shuffleboard, beach, pool, playground."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for their amenities. At George Washington State Campground, just across the Rhode Island border, campers appreciate "very clean bathrooms with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins). Staff was friendly and helpful, with park rangers making regular rounds."
What you should know
Seasonal population: Several campgrounds in the region host a mix of short-term and seasonal campers. At Brialee Family Campground, this can affect the atmosphere: "This is a large seasonal oriented campground. There was not full service sewer hook up, only gray water. There was a dump station."
Cash-only policies: Some facilities have specific payment requirements. One camper at Wilderness Lake Park noted, "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared."
Weekend noise levels: The area experiences different activity levels based on day of week. A visitor to Charlie Brown Campground observed, "For the most part, people are pretty respectful of the quiet time from 11pm-8am with the exception of the occasional door slammers at the crack of dawn."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Sunfox Campground provides multiple play areas. A reviewer highlighted, "This is a quant campground geared towards families being out together. They have a beautiful pool, playground and a large jumping pillow like a huge trampoline you can't fall off of."
Scheduled activities: Many sites offer organized programming throughout the day. At Peppertree Camping, families find child-friendly entertainment options. One camper shared, "We had our very first camping experience with our new camper at this campground and it was everything we could have imagined and more. My children spent hours in it playing and fishing."
Site selection strategy: For family visits, location within the campground matters. At Odetah Camping Resort, a visitor suggested, "If you go, request a site by the water. Rain had been sparse so didn't matter our weekend but I would imagine it would be great on a hot sunny day."
Tips from RVers
Gray water regulations: Some properties have specific hookup limitations. At Highland Campground, an RVer noted, "There is no black water hookup, only gray water. You have to have them clean out the black or dump on the way out."
Assistance with setup: First-time RVers can find helpful staff at certain locations. A camper at Peppertree Camping shared, "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."
Site spacing: RV sites vary in size and proximity throughout the region. At Odetah Camping Resort, a visitor commented, "The sites are a little close, but with so much to do you don't spend that much time at your site."
