Tent camping opportunities near Montville, Connecticut primarily center around the Connecticut River corridor where several state parks and nature preserves offer primitive sites. Most locations require advanced planning as they feature limited amenities and specific access requirements. The climate in this region of Connecticut features humid summers with temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with occasional precipitation.
What to do
Hiking at River Highlands State Park: The park features several miles of moderately difficult trails with river views. Visitors report the trail system offers good variety within a compact area. According to one camper at River Highlands State Park River Campground, "the campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river."
Water activities on the Connecticut River: Paddle routes vary from beginner-friendly shoreline exploration to more challenging multi-mile trips. Many tent sites provide direct river access for swimming during summer months when water temperatures reach the mid-70s. Water activities are particularly popular at Hidden Lake Farm, where campers appreciate the combination of "quiet and private" camping with water access.
Castle exploration: Gillette Castle State Park offers historical architecture tours in addition to camping options. The castle features unique stone construction and period furnishings accessible through guided tours. A camper at Gillette Castle State Park Campground notes it's a "great place for a hike or a picnic. Castle has tours at certain times."
What campers like
Peaceful water views: Most riverside campsites offer unobstructed views of the Connecticut River, particularly at dawn and dusk. The tent platforms at Chapman Pond Preserve provide elevated vantage points that campers appreciate. One visitor described it as having "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view."
Primitive camping experience: The boat-in sites limit crowds and create a more secluded experience compared to drive-in campgrounds. Weekend occupancy remains lower than many Connecticut state parks, particularly during shoulder seasons. The river location adds natural white noise that helps mask sounds from nearby sites.
Wildlife observation: The riverfront location attracts diverse bird species including herons, osprey, and seasonal waterfowl. Morning hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for bird species. Campers regularly report spotting deer, rabbits, and occasional fox near campsites at various preserves along the river.
What you should know
Boat access requirements: Many Connecticut River sites require watercraft access, with no road connections available. Canoes and kayaks must transport all camping gear, which requires waterproof storage solutions. The paddle to Selden Neck State Park Campground involves "about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island. If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags."
Limited facilities: Most sites offer basic amenities like fire rings with minimal additional infrastructure. Potable water is rarely available, requiring campers to carry in all drinking water needs. Toilet facilities typically consist of primitive outhouses that may host wildlife, as one camper warned about River Highlands: "the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders."
Reservation requirements: Peak season (May-September) requires advance reservations through the Connecticut state parks system. Most riverside sites accommodate 1-4 tents with capacity for 2-8 people total. Parking permits for launch areas cost $9-15 depending on residency status and are required from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Tips for camping with families
Age considerations: River access sites work best with children who can swim confidently due to current and boat traffic. The paddle-in requirements at several sites make them better suited for families with older children who can help with paddling. Parks like Hurd State Park River Camping offer more accessible options for families with younger children.
Safety precautions: Life jackets are required for all children under 12 when on watercraft according to Connecticut regulations. River currents can strengthen unexpectedly with rainfall upstream, requiring additional vigilance. Cell phone reception is inconsistent at many river sites, so emergency planning is essential.
Kid-friendly activities: Many sites feature small beach areas that appear during low tide periods for play space. Fishing from shore provides entertainment for children with appropriate licenses for those 16 and older. Nature scavenger hunts work well in the diverse riverside ecosystems with abundant plant and animal species.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Traditional RV camping is generally unavailable at the river access sites near Montville. Larger rigs must look farther afield to private campgrounds with hookups, typically 30-45 minutes from riverfront areas. Most riverside campgrounds specifically limit accommodations to tent camping only with no vehicle access.
