Top Free Dispersed Camping near New Canaan, CT

Camping near New Canaan, Connecticut, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Harriman State Park - Beaver Pond. One camper mentioned, "I enjoy the beach/lakefront, option for platform sites, and regularly cleaned bathroom and shower facilities."
• Fishing: Spend a relaxing day fishing at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner. A visitor shared, "The campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore."
• Beach Days: Visit the nearby beaches at Hammonasset State Park Campground for swimming and sunbathing. One reviewer noted, "The beach was popular, and there was a stream running from a pond that kids were playing in."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Clarence Fahnestock State Park. A reviewer stated, "The bathrooms are very old and very clean. Flush toilets. Heated."
• Secluded Sites: Many enjoy the privacy of the sites at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. One camper mentioned, "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on."
• Family-Friendly Activities: Families love the variety of activities at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner. A parent shared, "This place is so much fun. My whole family loved the activities, awesome pools and water area."

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Wildwood State Park Campground noted, "The crowd stayed awake playing music all night very loudly."
• Booking in Advance: Popular spots like Hammonasset State Park Campground fill up quickly. One camper advised, "If you are looking for a site it’s best to book far in advance."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Mills Norrie State Park Campground, have fewer amenities. A reviewer mentioned, "There’s only one bath house with just a few showers and toilets."

Tips for camping with families:

• Bring Entertainment: Kids will enjoy the playgrounds and activities at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner. A parent said, "There are tons of activities on location. Beautiful view of the river!"
• Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have limited food options, so pack meals or snacks. A visitor at Hammonasset State Park Campground noted, "You need to either bring your own fire pit or rent one from the store."
• Check for Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer organized activities for kids, like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner, where one camper mentioned, "It looks like Saturdays have the best activities."

Tips from RVers:

• Site Selection: Choose sites that accommodate your RV size. A reviewer at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley said, "The sites are very spacious and have lots of trees and shade."
• Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the necessary hookups. One camper noted, "The sewer connection in 372 ran uphill for me, but my pipe sits very low."
• Be Prepared for Bugs: Some campgrounds may have bugs, so bring repellent. A visitor at Sandy Hook - Gateway National Recreation Area mentioned, "We were warned of rampant ticks but had no issues."

Camping in New Canaan, CT, offers a variety of experiences, from family-friendly fun to peaceful retreats. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!