Near Middlebury, Connecticut, camping options range from state parks to private campgrounds within the rolling Litchfield Hills region at elevations between 500-700 feet. Several campgrounds remain open from spring through fall, with facilities typically closing after Columbus Day weekend. Water temperatures at swimming areas average 75°F during summer months, dropping to the mid-60s by late September.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Lake Waramaug State Park Campground, a 0.65-mile trail behind the campground leads to a scenic lookout. "There is a really great (but very short .65 miles) hiking trail behind the campground and a cool big rock to climb on near the bathrooms further away from the office and a field that would be good for flying kites, model airplanes or drones behind the state park parking lot," notes a visitor.
Swimming areas: Rocky Neck State Park Campground provides beach access within walking distance of campsites. According to one camper, "Sites include one paved parking spot (ours was very muddy) a fire pit and a picnic table. No water or electric hookup. Wi-fi not available at this campground. Fire wood is sold at camp office. There is no store in park - no ice either."
Exploring local attractions: The area surrounding Wildwood State Park Campground connects campers to numerous regional activities. "There are lots of stores nearby as well as orchards to pick your own fruits. I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby," shares a reviewer who visited the area.
What campers like
Large, spacious sites: White Pines Campsites receives praise for site layout and natural features. One camper notes, "We stayed at site 85 in Sunny Crest and liked having some privacy. The sites nearby had some trees providing space between each site. A lot of the sites we drove by were pretty sloped- I would recommend a drive though if you can beforehand."
Clean facilities: The attention to maintenance at Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park stands out to visitors. "Taconic State Park has a beautiful campground. No electric hookups, but plenty of water and tent sites are available with very large platforms. Bathroom facilities are adequate. There are 2 dog friendly loops at the back. Overall, very quiet and friendly," explains a reviewer.
Family-oriented activities: Weekend programming makes Lake Compounce Campground popular for families. "They have a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball. Not to mention its next to the amusement park," mentions one reviewer. Another adds, "The staff were very friendly and they had some activities like bingo and corn hole the weekend we were there."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Rain can impact camping experiences at these locations. One camper at White Pines Campsites explained, "When we were there it was right after a rain storm and everything was a bit muddy and slippery."
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds report regular wildlife sightings. A visitor at Lake Compounce Campground observed, "This is an interesting camp ground. As I am set up for bed I see one other large green tent that looks deserted. People left their left over food scraps in the grass by my camp so not only has my dog been eating it, I also hear coyotes. Won't be surprised if I see a bear in the morning."
Utility limitations: Many campsites have partial hookups or restricted services. "It does not have sewer hookups, but there is a dump station on the way out," notes a Lake Compounce Campground visitor. At Rocky Neck, a camper points out, "No water or electric hookup. Wi-fi not available at this campground."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for beach crowds: Families should arrive early to secure beach space. "Great Beach, but beware, it can be crowded!!!! So get their early if you do go to the beach," advises a visitor to Rocky Neck State Park Campground.
Consider glamping options: For those wanting comfort near Middlebury, Connecticut, tent platforms provide a step up from traditional camping. "One of my favorite so far, went with family, to comply w covid and social distancing, the camp only rent your site and no one on your left or right or across! Amazing!" shares a Lake Waramaug visitor.
Check site dimensions: Families with multiple tents should verify site capacity. "Sites are HUGE," notes a Lake Waramaug camper, while at Copake Falls, a visitor mentions, "Each of the sites had a large platform (enough room for one very large tent or 2-3 smaller tents), a fire pit, and picnic table."
Tips from RVers
Site arrangement: At Lake Compounce Campground, RVers note the unique layout: "The sites were long so even though you face your neighbor, the sites were long enough that our door wasn't directly across from our neighbor."
Water and electric access: Many sites require planning for partial hookups. "This was good for an overnight stop on our way south. We couldn't find much else along our route, but this wasn't too bad," shares an RVer who stayed at Lake Compounce.
Dump station timing: Plan accordingly for morning departure lines. "No sewer hookups, but does have a dump station," notes a Lake Compounce visitor, while another mentions morning can be busy with "the recycling and garbage truck will wake you around 6-7 am."
