Camping sites near Montville, Connecticut range from primitive woodland settings to full-service campgrounds with extensive recreational facilities. The area sits within the Thames River watershed at elevations between 200-500 feet, creating diverse terrain for camping experiences. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity levels and occasional thunderstorms from June through August.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Rocky Neck State Park Campground offers convenient fishing, with one camper noting, "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."
Kayaking access: At Crocker's Boatyard, visitors enjoy water activities with easy marine access. One reviewer mentioned, "We stayed there with our RV for 2 nights. We had a spot right next to the pool and the docks. Very convenient. The staff does a great job."
Hiking trails: Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground features waterfall access and nature exploration. "We hiked and went fishing nearby. There are few places to purchase goods on the way to the site so stock up before arriving. No water hookups or bathrooms either," a camper advised.
Beach activities: Access to both freshwater and saltwater swimming makes this region popular. "Beautiful campground right near the beach. Hiking trails along the coast line. Beautiful state park," noted one Rocky Neck visitor.
What Campers Like
Convenient locations: Campgrounds situated near attractions receive high marks. A Mystic KOA visitor explained, "We chose Mystic KOA and stayed in a full hook up-50amp pull through site. On arrival, the campground was clean and spacious. Office staff very helpful with check in, and we were easily able to find our site."
Water features: Ponds and lakes enhance many camping experiences. At Waters Edge Family Campground, a camper shared, "There's a nice lake to float on, a clean pool to swim in, activities every weekend. I camp here seasonally and love it."
Entertainment options: Many campgrounds offer scheduled activities for all ages. One visitor to Strawberry Park reported, "Easy check in right at front gate, Didn't even have to get out of the truck. Was handed map and daily activity list. Lots of things for kids to do. We watched a magician and played pickle ball on the courts."
Wildlife viewing: Natural settings provide opportunities to observe local fauna. "The wildlife was incredible, a beaver family lives in the marsh so every night around 10 they would be up splashing around loudly," noted a Devil's Hopyard camper.
What You Should Know
Tick awareness: Prepare for ticks during warmer months. A Devil's Hopyard visitor warned, "Be very careful with ticks, there were tons of them under our picnic table and by the campfire. Bring your own chairs to sit on and don't put too much down that they may be able to stick to."
Shower facilities: Quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Odetah Camping Resort, campers appreciate "immaculate bathrooms," while other locations receive less favorable reviews.
Site privacy: Many campgrounds feature limited separation between sites. "Camp spaces are tight. Lots of activities for kids. Camp store sells beer," noted a Strawberry Park visitor.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. Many open for reservations in January for the upcoming summer season.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer multiple play areas for different age groups. An Odetah visitor shared, "This place has everything from a pool, splash pad, boats, food, ice cream, lots of activities, friendly helpful staff, delivery to your site from the camp store and nice shaded spacious sites."
Swimming options: Pools and natural swimming areas provide cooling relief. A Niantic KOA reviewer noted, "Charming, full of wonderful amenities and nice extras. Nice staff, fun coin scavenger hunt, great pool, well stocked store, wide sites, lots of grass/trees and space to stretch out."
Planned activities: Scheduled events keep children engaged. "Bingo every night, and more activities than you could possibly do!!! The kids ride their bikes to the sports fields, the rec center for the pool and activities," reported a Strawberry Park camper.
Supply availability: Some remote campgrounds have limited nearby shopping. A Devil's Hopyard visitor advised, "There are few places to purchase goods on the way to the site so stock up before arriving."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Ground conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. An Aces High RV Park camper mentioned, "Clean, well-maintained, and level site with concrete pad and patio. Utility hookups were in great condition and everything worked as it should."
Utility hookups: Check what connections are available at your specific site. "No hook-ups, lol. This is a con in the heat of the summer if you want/need AC," noted one Burlingame State Park camper.
Road conditions: Access roads at some campgrounds may present challenges. "Unmaintained roadways. The main one was once paved but has not been maintained; others were dirt (and mud after a rain)," reported a Niantic KOA visitor.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dump facilities. Verify availability when booking, especially for longer stays.
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