Campgrounds near New Fairfield, Connecticut are situated in the western highlands region, where elevations range from 700 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most campsites in this region offer spacious sites on uneven terrain with varying degrees of privacy between neighboring campers.
What to do
Hiking trails and lookouts: Steep Rock Association in Washington, Connecticut offers secluded campsites along the Shepaug River. "There are three campsites; two that require short hikes (.5 miles and .75 miles, respectively) and a third that can be driven to. Each one is far away from the others," notes Michael O., who appreciated the privacy between sites.
Fishing in stocked waters: Kettletown State Park Campground offers multiple fishing spots with convenient access. "The lake is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoes and for fishing. Bring your own gear but kayak and canoe rentals are available," notes camper G Y., highlighting the diverse water activities available.
Beach swimming: Lake swimming remains a popular activity during summer months. "We spent quite a bit of time in CT State Parks on this trip, and this was one of the best," reports DrDavid P. about Kettletown, where the swimming area is "marginal—best for little ones" according to another camper.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park offers raised platform tent sites. "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay," notes Ethan K., who also appreciated "the communal sink which made it very convenient and easy to wash dishes and fill up water."
Lean-to shelter camping: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation features lean-to shelters with fire pits. "Beautiful campsites! Lots of lean-to sites with fireplaces in them. The camp area is beautiful, especially in the fall. Pet friendly and kid friendly with a playground available," shares Misty V., who particularly recommends site #25.
Proximity to NYC: Many campsites serve as weekend getaways for city residents. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," writes Megan B. about Beaver Pond Campground, highlighting its accessibility from urban areas.
What you should know
Varied bathroom conditions: Bathroom facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms are usually unclean, they run out of tissue, there is only 1 shower for the entire bathroom AND they clean them right when people are waking and need to pee (between 7-8)," notes katrina M. about Lake Waramaug State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground visitors often report wildlife sightings. "A park employee asked everyone to exit the park...so they wouldn't be present when the wildlife exterminator arrived," reports one camper dealing with geese management, while others mention squirrels, raccoons, and skunks as common visitors to campsites.
Weekday vs. weekend experiences: Campsite atmosphere changes dramatically between weekdays and weekends. "If you go during the week the place is a ghost town...I would never camp here on a weekend.... it is a party place then," warns katrina M. about Lake Waramaug, a sentiment echoed at several campgrounds in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity options: Freedom Farm Homestead in Connecticut offers family-friendly amenities with 20 available sites. As a newer addition to the camping scene, visitors appreciate its market, picnic tables and accessible water hookups.
Consider site privacy: Site selection significantly impacts camping experience. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site," notes Asher K. about Fahnestock State Park, advising families to "check out the sites online to get one that is private."
Check swimming areas: Swimming facilities vary in quality and size. "The swimming area is an absolute joke, unless you are 18 months old, and then its probably perfect. (Extremely small, extremely shallow, and some sand to dig in)," reports Mo S. about Lake Waramaug's beach area.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Cozy Hills Campground offers RV-friendly sites with hookups. "Clean, well maintained campground. Most of the short-term sites are on a separate loop from the seasonals, which made for a nice short-term community," notes Jon R., adding that "sites are well maintained, with fresh wood chips and groomed gravel."
Elevation challenges: Many campsites feature hilly terrain that can be challenging for RVs. "It's very hilly. A golf cart is recommended if your site is far from the pool," advises Rino S. about Cozy Hills, which may require additional planning for RV positioning.
Site spacing considerations: The proximity between campsites affects privacy levels. "Very nice facilities. Most of the short-term sites are on a separate loop from the seasonals, which made for a nice short-term community," observes Jon R., though other reviewers note the "real lack of privacy at almost all the sites we saw...it was more like staying in a summer cottage colony."
