Rocky Neck State Park Campground offers cabin accommodations 25 miles from New Haven near the Long Island Sound shoreline. The terrain varies between coastal areas and inland wooded sites with elevations ranging from sea level to 150 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F, while spring and fall nights drop to 45-60°F. Connecticut's climate means cabins are primarily available from May through September, with most parks closing for winter months.
What to do
Beach access and swimming: At Hammonasset State Park Campground, the beach is within walking distance of camping areas. "Beautiful Connecticut beach sits just steps away from your campsite. Well kept showers and bathrooms are abundant and the camp store has the majority of what you need. You can ride your bike from your site to the playground, store, beach, local ice cream shop, coffee shop, or our family favorite, meig's point nature center," notes one visitor.
Hiking trails: Rocky Neck State Park Campground offers multiple trail systems with coastal views. "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," says a regular visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Several parks offer fishing in ponds, streams or ocean access. "You'll enjoy the low tide," mentions one Rocky Neck visitor, referring to the unique shoreline fishing opportunities when tides recede.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. A visitor to Bear Creek Campground at Lake Compounce notes, "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded. Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper."
Space between sites: Site spacing varies considerably between parks. At Riverdale Farm Campsites, a camper observed, "Most of the short-term sites are on a separate loop from the seasonals, which made for a nice short-term community. Sites are well maintained, with fresh wood chips and groomed gravel."
Natural settings: Many camping cabins near New Haven provide access to natural environments. "We were their for 4 nights and 5 days. Very rewarding visit. Rangers and other campers were very friendly. The sites are very spacious and clean. The park it self is also well kept and clean. Lot of good hiking trails with a scenic view and waterfall to discover," reports a visitor to Black Rock State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most cabin rentals operate from late May through early September. "I have been going here with my friends and family for as long as I can remember. It's right near the beach, and the campsites and bathrooms are always clean!" notes a Rocky Neck visitor about the popular summer season.
Cabin styles and amenities: Some parks offer platforms or concrete pads for cabin placement. At Wildwood State Park Campground, "This is one of my favorite campgrounds solely because there are platform sites so I can place my tent on a concrete or wooden platform."
Booking requirements: Advance reservations are essential during peak periods. Wildwood visitors advise, "You have to buy a stargazing permit to be out on the beach after sunset, which is kind of strange but really helps prevent hooligans from taking over the beach and destroying the serenity."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Most parks organize activities for children. At Cozy Hills Campground, "Lots and lots of activities for kids! Arts & Crafts, Arcade, Bingo, Casino Night etc. Pool is very nice for families - with no deep end, really safe for younger kids."
Playground access: Many campgrounds offer playground equipment. Hammonasset visitors mention, "You can ride your bike from your site to the playground, store, beach, local ice cream shop, coffee shop, or our family favorite, meig's point nature center. We make it a point to spend at least a week here every summer!"
Safety considerations: Family-friendly parks maintain security staff. "Staff patrols for safety. Good place for families and large groups," notes a Kettletown State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Not all cabin camping areas offer full hookups. At Wolf's Den Family Campground, a visitor explains, "Power and water at every site. Very very clean. 50x30 sites common. I would recommend to stay here if in the area."
Site layout: RV sites often have different configurations than cabin sites. "Long pull through sites," mentions a Bear Creek visitor, while others note, "Sites are long so even though you face your neighbor, the sites were long enough that our door wasn't directly across from our neighbor."
Dump station locations: Some parks offer on-site waste disposal. "Only electric 30 or 50A, and water; but there are a few dumpstations around in the camp," notes a Wolf's Den camper.
