Camping spots near Moodus, Connecticut cluster around the Connecticut River Valley at approximately 500 feet above sea level, where seasonal temperature variations create distinct camping opportunities from spring through fall. The region's hardwood forests provide varied levels of shade across campgrounds, with summer temperatures typically reaching 80-85°F during peak camping months. Sites range from heavily wooded to open field settings with different soil conditions affecting tent setup and drainage.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground in East Haddam offers direct access to Chapman Falls, a popular natural attraction. "The waterfall was a quick walk away and you could hike down to the river for a quick dip. The river isn't deep enough for a full swim but still was good enough on a hot day," notes a visitor.
Fishing for brook trout: Seasonal campers often visit Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground specifically for fishing opportunities. "Small little campground located in an amazing a beautiful park. Go here every spring for opening day of fishing season and camp the entire weekend," shares one regular visitor.
Kayaking and boating: Waters Edge Family Campground in Lebanon provides direct water access for boats. "There is a little lake for fishing, kayaking and swimming if you like," explains a camper, though those with kayaks at Rocky Neck State Park Campground should note: "Anyone with kayaks can't easily get to boat launch. It's 4-5 miles by car at 4 mile river boat launch."
What campers like
Multiple swimming options: Odetah Camping Resort in Bozrah offers various water recreation choices. As one visitor notes: "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."
Quiet weekday camping: Salem Farms Campground provides a more peaceful experience midweek. A regular visitor observed: "We stayed for 4 nights during the week, and it was the quietest campground we've ever stayed in. We were told by a seasonal that its a whole different story on the weekend."
Beach proximity: Rocky Neck State Park Campground provides convenient beach access. A frequent visitor shares: "My family has camped at Rocky Neck every year since i was a child. Every site had a central bathhouse and they have a variety of tree covering options for each campers preferences. The campsite is only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds in the area fill quickly, especially for prime summer weekends. "Sites are inexpensive if you are a CT resident, only $14, but there's a $10 surcharge for out of state campers (2021)," notes a visitor to Devil's Hopyard State Park.
Water availability varies: Not all campgrounds provide full water access. At Devil's Hopyard, "water is not provided due to contamination, you'll need to bring your own," according to a recent visitor.
Site privacy considerations: Wolf's Den Family Campground in East Haddam features many seasonal campers. "This campground has tons of amenities, but it was a little weird for us since there were so many seasonals there," explains one reviewer who also noted the campground's location near attractions like Gillette Castle.
Weather patterns: Campers should prepare for insects and weather changes. "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 to much down that they may be able to stick to. Our 2 nights we found over 25 ticks," warns a camper at Devil's Hopyard.
Tips for camping with families
Free shuttle services: Niantic KOA offers transportation to local attractions. "They will give free shuttle rides to 3 beaches & downtown Niantic, CT," explains a visitor, making it easier for families without having to move vehicles.
Midweek discounts: Salem Farms Campground offers special rates for extended stays. A grandparent notes, "I try to go here every summer with my two preteen grandsons. We tent close to the restroom and the pool, which are very clean. We go mid week and the special is pay 2 nights, get third night free."
Organized activities: Waters Edge Family Campground schedules regular events. "The camp store is adequately supplied and they had just enough actives for the kids to be engaged," mentions a family visitor who appreciated the balance of structured and free time.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Many campgrounds offer only partial hookups. At Rocky Neck State Park, sites include "one paved parking spot, a fire pit and a picnic table. No water or electric hookup," explains a camper, so RVers should prepare accordingly.
Size restrictions: Hammonasset State Park Campground accommodates larger RVs but with limitations. "We've been going to Hammonasset for years as a large family gathering. Most sites don't have hook ups so you have to run off battery and water storage tanks if you have a RV," shares a regular visitor.
Dump station access: At Niantic KOA, "No sewer hook up, but they do provide a honey wagon pump service, once, free of charge. They say you can request additional pumps for a fee, if necessary," notes an RVer who visited the campground.
