Rocky Neck State Park Campground offers a unique alternative for glamping near Middlefield, Connecticut, with sites situated less than a mile from the Long Island Sound. The campground operates seasonally from May through September, with 160 wooded sites accommodating both tent and RV campers. Peak booking periods typically occur during July and August weekends when temperatures average 75-85°F.
What to do
Beach access and swimming: At Rocky Neck State Park Campground, campers can walk directly from their sites to the beach. "The proximity to the state beach via a well kept hiking trail" makes it convenient for families, according to one visitor. Another camper notes, "Beach can be crowded. But it is worth it. Nice food shack."
Kayaking and water activities: Wilderness Lake Park provides complimentary watercraft for guests. "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," reports one camper. The lake is suitable for swimming as well, with one visitor mentioning, "The lake was quiet and we saw kids swimming in it in the morning."
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds feature nature trails for exploring local woodlands. A visitor to Wilderness Lake Park mentions, "There was a hiking trail on the property and the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property." At Wolf's Den Family Campground, "There's a winery nearby and Gillette castle within a few minutes."
What campers like
Privacy and site spacing: Wolf's Den Family Campground receives praise for its generous site dimensions. One camper reports, "Spacious lots very clean and organized facility." Another notes the campground has "50x30 sites common," providing ample room for setups.
Clean facilities: Lake Compounce Campground maintains high standards for cleanliness. "Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper," explains one visitor. Another recent camper confirms, "Campground was awesome! Friendly staff and really clean bathrooms and shower area."
Recreational amenities: Multiple campgrounds feature organized activities and recreational facilities. Wolf's Den offers "Mini golf, pool, tennis, basketball, volleyball, lots of playgrounds for the kids. Family oriented park. Bingo, board games, and other activities available." Lake Compounce Campground is "part of the Lake Compounce Amusement Park adjacent to campground," providing additional entertainment options.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most glamping facilities in the area have limited operating seasons. Niantic KOA operates from late April to early November. One guest mentioned, "CG is pretty empty during the week and gets busy during the weekend," indicating mid-week visits might offer more solitude.
Payment options: Some campgrounds have specific payment requirements. A visitor to Wilderness Lake Park advises, "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared," which could affect planning for those accustomed to credit card payments.
Site accessibility: At Rocky Neck State Park, "some sites were tent only and you couldn't pull your car up to the site so unloading and loading was a hassle." Campgrounds like Niantic KOA have "unmaintained roadways. The main one was once paved but has not been maintained; others were dirt (and mud after a rain)."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Riverdale Farm Campsites offers diverse family programming. "They had activities for the kids on weekends and holidays," notes one visitor. Another camper shares, "We did bingo and it was a blast. It was a beautiful day on the beach pond. They had great prizes for cheap cost."
Swimming options: Multiple locations feature swimming areas appropriate for children. A visitor to Riverdale Farm Campsites mentions, "The lake is perfect, the river needs work. But this an awesome small campground. The kids who work here are so friendly and the playground is nice."
Off-site attractions: The region offers numerous family-friendly activities within driving distance. A camper staying at Wolf's Den Family Campground reports, "We visited Hartford from this site, which was about 40 min drive." Another mentions the campground is conveniently located near "Gillette Castle and Goodspeed Opera."
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Odetah Camping Resort provides full-service sites for RVs. One camper explains the campground has "delivery to your site from the camp store and nice shaded spacious sites." The campground has a mix of "seasonal and overnight sites as well as cabins."
Site selection: Lake Compounce Campground features "long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded." Another RVer adds, "Sites were large enough for RV. NO privacy, bit tent sites were ok."
Waste disposal: Some campgrounds offer limited sewer connections. A Lake Compounce visitor explains, "Very well maintained and friendly staff will stay again when in the area. Does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station." Wolf's Den has "Grey dump at site. Power and water at every site."
