Private RV camping options around Middle Haddam, Connecticut sit where the Connecticut River meets the Salmon River at about 30 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasons with warm summers averaging 80°F and cold winters that can drop to 20°F. Most campgrounds in this region remain open from May through mid-October, with limited winter camping available.
What to do
River fishing access: Lake Compounce Campground offers proximity to both amusement park attractions and natural water features. "Great time! Would have been nice if they had a place to swim (in the camping area) besides for at the main park," notes one camper.
Local history exploration: Within 30 minutes of Salem Farms Campground are Devil's Hopyard and Gillette Castle. "Devil's Hopyard and Gillette Castle are close and Rocky Neck State Park is about a 25 minute ride," shares a visitor who camps there with grandchildren.
Mini golf outings: Several campgrounds feature mini golf courses as recreation options. At Sun Outdoors Mystic, "The mini golf course was actually really nice and not the run-down homemade ones that you usually see at campgrounds."
Walking trails: Many RV parks feature walking paths through wooded areas. One reviewer at Sturbridge RV Resort mentioned: "There is a huge area of woods with a walking trail starting at the edge of the campground. I enjoyed stretching my legs."
What campers like
Well-maintained sites: Campers frequently comment on the quality of sites at Aces High RV Park. "Clean, well-maintained, and level site with concrete pad and patio. Utility hookups were in great condition and everything worked as it should," notes a satisfied guest.
Wildlife viewing: Natural settings provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Beautiful pond and natural setting with lots of ducks, geese, chickens, and wild birds," mentions a visitor to Aces High RV Park.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness matters to campers. One Lake Compounce visitor noted, "Clean bathrooms and nice store. CG is pretty empty during the week and gets busy during the weekend."
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature pools for recreation. A Salem Farms camper shared, "We tent close to the restroom and the pool, which are very clean. We go mid week and the special is pay 2 nights, get third night free."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the region close by mid-October. Totoket Valley RV Park remains open longer than some, while Ashaway RV Resort offers year-round camping options.
Site spacing varies: Proximity to neighbors differs by campground and site type. One Ashaway RV Resort visitor noted, "The sites are VERY close, but the people are nice and we had a great stay."
Cell coverage challenges: Digital connectivity can be limited. At Sturbridge RV Resort, "Cell reception is not great. Camp link Wifi for a fee is workable unless you need to do zoom calls."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance planning, especially during summer and fall. Salem Farms Campground offers a midweek special: "pay 2 nights, get third night free" according to a regular visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Consider buddy sites: For group camping, specific site configurations work best. At Countryside RV Park, the family-focused atmosphere makes it "Connecticut's Best Kept Secret. Beautiful, family owned & run, quiet, large sites."
Look for playground proximity: When tent camping with children, location matters. A Salem Farms visitor shared, "We went tent camping with 3 other families. Loved the tent area and how close it was for the kids to use the pool and facilities."
Check activity schedules: Family programming varies by season and day of week. "We felt safe allowing the kids to go ride bikes and go mini golfing. We will definitely be back next year!" reports a family at Salem Farms.
Verify swimming availability: Not all water features operate year-round. Lake Compounce Campground connects to an amusement park with water activities, but as one reviewer noted, having swimming options directly in the camping area would improve the experience.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement matters: Review sites for utility configuration before booking. At Totoket Valley RV Park, a visitor appreciated the "Small campground with good electrical, clean water, sewer and a friendly owner. Each site has grass and a picnic table."
Dump station availability: Not all sites have sewer connections. Lake Compounce Campground provides alternatives: "None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out."
Site length considerations: Larger rigs need appropriate spaces. Bear Creek Campground offers "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded."
Seasonal discounts: Look for off-peak pricing. Salem Farms' midweek special can save money, while many RV parks near Middle Haddam, Connecticut offer lower rates outside summer and fall foliage periods.
