Tent camping opportunities near Moosup, Connecticut range from primitive backcountry sites to waterfront locations within a 30-mile radius. The region sits within the Thames River watershed with elevations typically between 200-600 feet above sea level. Most tent camping options remain open from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Paddling access: Chapman Pond Preserve offers tent platforms near the Connecticut River, making it an excellent basecamp for kayakers and canoeists. As camper Ben L. notes, the preserve features "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view."
Fishing opportunities: Buck Hill Campground provides access to Wakefield Pond where campers can fish throughout their stay. According to Greg R., "This is a great rural no frills campground... The area is heavily wooded without much else around and very few amenities... Thos is the type of campground to just come and unwind, fish, cook, etc don't expect much else."
Swimming spots: Several locations offer water access for swimming during summer months. Buck Hill Campground has "a small somewhat sandy area that perhaps used to be a beach of sorts, though no lifeguards or anything. The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water."
What campers like
Riverside views: Gillette Castle State Park Campground earns praise for its Connecticut River setting. Jackie G. shared, "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. It is amazing with the views of the CT River and being able to watch the sunrise and sunset."
Island seclusion: Selden Neck State Park Campground provides a unique boat-in camping experience. Jason S. explains, "Selden Neck State Park is an island in the Connecticut River with no roads or development other than 4 campsites. You have to kayak or boat in."
Group camping: For larger gatherings seeking the best tent camping near Moosup, Connecticut, Buck Hill Campground accommodates multiple tents. Greg R. mentioned, "All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents). many of the sites are also along Wakefield Pond."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some waterfront access points require permits during peak season. For Selden Neck State Park, "Entering and parking at the boat launch requires a permit Memorial Day to Labor Day."
Limited facilities: Most tent camping sites near Moosup offer minimal amenities. At Chapman Pond Preserve, expect basic facilities as Ben L. describes: "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view. Good site."
Weather considerations: Fog can affect water-access campgrounds, potentially delaying morning departures. As one camper at Selden Neck reported, "In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early. But it burned off before long."
Tips for camping with families
Beach areas: Look for sites with gradual water entry points for young swimmers. Buck Hill Campground has "a few areas that make for easy entry into the water (including the 'beach')."
Island adventures: Water's Edge Campground offers boat-in access options that can create memorable experiences for families. The campground features boat-in, drive-in, hike-in, and walk-in access types, making it versatile for different family preferences.
Historic attractions: Combine camping with educational opportunities at nearby state parks. Todd J. recommends Gillette Castle, noting it's a "Great place for a hike or a picnic. Castle has tours at certain times."
Tips from RVers
Tent-only advantages: Most quality tent camping near Moosup, Connecticut avoids the crowds of larger RV campgrounds. Selden Neck State Park provides complete tent-focused camping with Jason S. mentioning, "Plenty of flat area to pitch a tent, nice picnic table and fire pit. There's a private outhouse."
Site privacy: For campers seeking separation from others, Selden Neck offers well-spaced sites. Jason noted, "There's a few sites close to each other, so it is nice to go with enough people to occupy them all at once to keep it personal."
Weather planning: When camping at water-accessible sites, pack gear in waterproof bags. One experienced camper advises, "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."
