RV camping near New London, Connecticut provides convenient access to southeastern Connecticut's coastal areas where summer temperatures average in the mid-80s with moderate humidity. The region offers waterfront sites at marinas, family-friendly RV parks, and year-round facilities within 20-25 minutes of downtown New London. Camping options remain open later in the season than in other New England areas, with several parks accepting campers through November.
What to do
Beach access: Aces High RV Park in East Lyme is located just 15 minutes from the beach according to camper reviews. "Close to I-95 and 15 minutes from the beach. Fishing areas for the kids," notes Tom S., who appreciated the convenient location.
Water activities: Multiple ponds and waterfront sites are available at several campgrounds, perfect for kayaking and fishing. April L. shared her experience at Aces High: "It has a clean playground and well maintained pool as well as some walking paths, large grassy areas, pavilion and volleyball court... There is also a creek area for dog swimming. Our two labs loved it!"
Casino visits: Most RV parks provide easy access to the area's gaming destinations. Aces High RV Park reviewer April L. noted, "Local kayaking areas and about 30 min to Foxwoods Casino, even closer to Mohegan Sun."
Historic exploration: Crocker's Boatyard offers unique camping right on the water with easy walking access to historic sites. "We took the ferry to Block Island which was also walking distance from the boat yard. Block Island a must see," writes James G., who also added, "Sunday we went and visited Fort Trumbull which is also walking distance away. Very nice place to visit and learn."
What campers like
Pool facilities: Strawberry Park in Preston provides multiple swimming options. Michael C. reported, "Lots of things for kids to do. We watched a magician and played pickle ball on the courts. Kids had fun on the many play grounds... The pools and hot tubs looked nice."
Level sites: Campers consistently mention the quality of the camping pads. Matt S. at Aces High RV Park wrote, "Clean, well-maintained, and level site with concrete pad and patio (I love a clean, level concrete pad!). Utility hookups were in great condition and everything worked as it should."
Indoor activities: When weather doesn't cooperate, some parks offer indoor options. One Strawberry Park visitor recalled, "When my family went here it poured! And we were thankful that there were so many things to do, painting ceramics, karaoke, an arcade... Bingo is always a family favorite and they even had that as well!"
Walkable locations: Sun Outdoors Mystic (formerly Seaport RV Resort) offers convenient access to Mystic's attractions. Laura L. mentioned, "Seaport RV is a great, spacious campground with many amenities and a location close to Mystic. My husband and I were able to ride our bikes into town."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds in the area close after mid-October. Countryside RV Park operates "May 1 to Oct 15" according to their listing information, while Sun Outdoors Mystic runs "April 14 to October 15."
Site spacing: The proximity of sites varies significantly between parks. At Strawberry Park, camper Brian P. noted, "Camp spaces are tight. Lots of activities for kids." Whereas at Countryside RV Park, Marilou O. described it as having "Beautiful, family owned & run, quiet, large sites."
Rule enforcement: Management styles differ between campgrounds. At Strawberry Park, Joanie S. commented, "There are alot of things to do there but so many rules. You cant really have a great time." Meanwhile, Mark T. at Countryside RV Park observed, "Very quite, rules are in-forced. This is camping, if you're looking for entertainment bring your own!"
Advance booking: Some parks fill quickly during peak season. Benjamin A. described Sun Outdoors Mystic as "Not much of a traditional campground but a great place stay and explore the town of mystic," making it popular with tourists who should book well ahead.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Choose campgrounds with structured children's programs. At Strawberry Park, Ryan C. shared, "Bingo every night, and more activities than you could possibly do!!! The kids ride their bikes to the sports fields, the rec center for the pool and activities."
Indoor backup options: Select campgrounds with rainy day alternatives. "Oh and my young children LOVE the air pillow, they have spent hours on there," continued Ryan C. about Strawberry Park's amenities, which also include "the rec staff. They always have a smile and they change the schedule when it rains to rainy day activities."
Water features: Pools and splash pads are popular with children during summer months. Michael C. observed at Strawberry Park, "Splash pad was clean and used by kids. Lots of roads to bike on and walk dogs."
Pet-friendly areas: Many campgrounds accommodate family pets with designated areas. Tasha O. at Meadowlark RV Park appreciated how "Daniella treats us like part of her family and the staff are always so helpful," making it comfortable for families with pets.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When traveling with friends, consider specific site configurations. Nancy W. at Sun Outdoors Mystic recommended, "We camped here with friends and got one of the 'buddy sites' so our patios faced each other. I like this configuration when camping with friends but would not like this site if we did not know our neighbors."
Utility placement: Check hookup locations when selecting sites. Pam R. at Sun Outdoors Mystic noted, "Our site didn't have sewer, but the electric and water were working fine. We saw maintenance people making repairs while we were there."
Security considerations: Some parks offer gated security for peace of mind. Frank I. at Crocker's Boatyard appreciated the "Very friendly and helpful staff, great location, security gated after hours. Had water and 50 amp hookup."
Shopping access: RVers need convenient access to supplies. Nancy W. mentioned, "Our biggest complaint was the price but camping in New England can be very pricy so you just have to shell out the cash if you want to be in a popular tourist destination."
