Rocky Neck State Park Campground sits 35 minutes from Moodus, Connecticut, along the Long Island Sound, offering campsites named after local waterfowl. The campground's elevation ranges from sea level to gentle hills, with walking trails connecting camping areas to a sandy beach. Sites receive cooling coastal breezes during summer months, moderating temperatures compared to inland locations.
What to do
Beach access within walking distance: At Rocky Neck State Park Campground, campers can walk directly to the beach without relocating vehicles. "I've lived in CT all my life but never used the Rocky Neck State Park Campground until now...Short walk to Rock Neck beach," notes camper Nita D. The beach area includes designated swimming sections with seasonal lifeguards.
Miniature golf for families: Wolf's Den Family Campground offers onsite mini-golf for $2 per person. "This campground has tons of amenities... they've got a nice pool, a game room, and mini golf for $2/person," shares Laura L. Courts are open through evening hours during peak season, making this a popular after-dinner activity.
Tennis and sports facilities: Several campgrounds maintain tennis courts alongside other sporting options. Jeremy G. mentions Wolf's Den has "tennis, basketball, volleyball, lots of playgrounds for the kids." These courts typically don't require reservations but may have limited evening lighting.
What campers like
Convenient beach shuttle service: Niantic KOA provides complimentary transportation to multiple beaches. "They will give free shuttle rides to 3 beaches & downtown Niantic, CT," reports Snooz H. This service runs on a regular schedule during peak season, eliminating parking challenges at public beaches.
Waterfront fishing options: Witch Meadow Lake Campground offers direct pond access for anglers. Alexander H. notes the "Great site on pond" and mentions the campground is "clean safe and quiet." Morning and evening hours typically yield the best fishing conditions.
Spacious sites for privacy: Despite glamping close to Moodus, Connecticut being popular, several campgrounds maintain good spacing between accommodations. "Most sites were large and level," notes Diane R. about Lake Compounce Campground. The pull-through sites particularly accommodate larger setups.
What you should know
Tent restrictions at some locations: Some properties have moved away from traditional tent camping. Kerry G. reports about one resort: "Odetah Camping Resort called us today 24 hours prior to our arrival- after 4 years of camping there- to cancel our site unless we rented an RV and didn't use tents."
Seasonal crowds impact facilities: During peak summer months, popular amenities become crowded. Laura A. noted at Niantic KOA: "The pool is very popular" and "the staff is very friendly and tries hard to make it fun for the kids." Weekday visits typically offer easier access to common areas.
Variable bathroom conditions: Facility maintenance varies significantly between properties. At Riverdale Farm Campsites, Matthew reported inconsistent cleaning: "for the first two [months] the mens showers were not cleaned." However, Nick H. had a different experience, praising the "Great Value and Nice Family owned business."
Tips for camping with families
Children's programming: Many campgrounds near Moodus offer structured activities for various ages. At Odetah Camping Resort, one camper shared, "From a massage at the Spa to a fun band by the lake, to Bingo night, mini-golf and awesome ice cream Sundaes... tennis & basketball games."
Playground access: Sites with multiple play areas accommodate different age groups. Jeremy G. noted Wolf's Den has "lots of playgrounds for the kids. Family oriented park. Bingo, board games, and other activities available."
Halloween-themed weekends: Several campgrounds host special seasonal events. Brian P. recalls, "We went two years in a row each on Halloween [at Odetah]! They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating."
Tips from RVers
Limited full hookup availability: Most glamping sites close to Moodus, Connecticut offer water and electric only. Ray B. mentions Lake Compounce Campground "does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station." This requires planning for longer stays.
Honey wagon services: Some properties offer pumping services for extended visits. Riverdale Farm Campsites provides scheduled gray water removal, while Bernie C. notes about Niantic KOA: "They do provide a honey wagon pump service, once, free of charge. They say you can request additional pumps for a fee, if necessary."
Variable site surfaces: RV pads range from gravel to grass depending on location. Dana C. mentions about Odetah: "We had two sites side by side for our group of 7 and two dogs. The staff will deliver wood right to your site." Grass sites may become soft after heavy rain.
