Several campgrounds near Monroe, Connecticut operate seasonally, with most open from late May through early September. The region sits in Connecticut's western hills, experiencing mild summers with average temperatures of 70-85°F and moderate humidity. Tent campers and RVers can find options throughout Litchfield County, with varying levels of privacy and amenities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Rudd Pond at Taconic State Park offers excellent bass fishing. "The sites were a little close together, but being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!! There is plenty of fishing access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day to fish on the water," noted a camper at Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park.
Nearby waterfall exploration: Several campgrounds provide access to regional waterfalls within a short drive. "There is a lot of hiking in the area- def check out Bash Bish Falls!" recommended a Taconic State Park visitor. At Black Rock State Park Campground, visitors can "Check out Leather Man Cave, Whitestone Cliffs, Tory's Den, and Buttermilk Falls nearby."
Lake swimming: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas, though availability varies by season. "Clean and beautiful. Great hikes. The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite," reports a Black Rock State Park visitor. At Beaver Pond, campers appreciate the "lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out."
What campers like
Privacy options: Site placement varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering more seclusion than others. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground, "Almost all of the sites offered privacy.... Even when the campground was full. I do feel the campground bathhouse really needed more attention." Another camper noted, "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site."
Accessibility from urban areas: Many campgrounds provide an escape from city life without requiring long drives. At Beaver Pond Campground, campers appreciate it being "a stones throw from NYC this beautiful area combines Lake Welch and Harriman State Park." Another visitor mentioned it's "great location and quick to get to from NYC. 45 minute drive and location has a lot of amenities."
Bath facilities: Clean bathroom facilities rank high on camper priority lists. Lake Compounce Campground visitors noted "Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper." Another camper reported, "Friendly staff and really clean bathrooms and shower area."
What you should know
Site differences and reservations: Campground layouts vary significantly across the region. At Lake Compounce Campground, "You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded." Consider carefully when booking: "All sites were so different. There was a storm the night before our arrival date, all campers were evacuated and they did a fantastic job clearing all the debris and downed trees before our arrival."
Weekday versus weekend experiences: Expect different atmospheres depending on timing. "Busy Campground on Weekends! This park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!"
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds report wildlife encounters. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area. I mean, we are in Bear Mountain, what do you expect?!?" Remember that "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Lake Compounce Campground has "a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball. Not to mention its next to the amusement park." Black Rock State Park offers a "beautiful state park, very clean... fishing, lake swimming, hiking trails."
Kid-friendly terrain: Look for campgrounds with open spaces for children to play. At Kettletown State Park Campground, "The reason why I said that place is perfect kids? It has a huge land of campsite that the kids can run around until their energy out for the night! Plus you would see awesome stars during the nighttime!"
Off-season benefits: Consider camping outside peak summer months. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite." Many families report better experiences with fewer crowds during weekdays or shoulder seasons, allowing more space for children to explore.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: For motorhomes and travel trailers near Monroe, Connecticut, site choice matters. "Sites were large enough for RV. NO privacy, but tent sites were ok. Few showers for number of campsites, but very clean." Many campgrounds offer both pull-through and back-in options, with varying degrees of privacy.
Dump station access: Understand waste management options before arrival. "Does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station," notes a Lake Compounce visitor. Similarly, a Kettletown State Park camper reported facilities include "a dump station and a place to fill up ur water tank as well."
Site levelness: RV campers should research terrain before booking. Branch Brook Campground provides "Spaces were decent sized. We were in site 16 and it was on the creek which was a decent view and gave us plenty of space to sit outside and for our dog to have space to roam." However, at Gentiles Campground, "roads were narrow and steep and hard to maneuver bigger trailers and rigs."
