Lake Waramaug State Park and surrounding campgrounds sit in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains where elevations range from 200 to 1,000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and high humidity levels. Winter camping options are limited as most facilities close by late October, with Lake Waramaug operating only from May 26 through September 4.
What to do
Hiking at Taconic State Park: Access hiking trails that connect directly to Bash Bish Falls across the Massachusetts border. "There are plenty of hiking trails nearby and of course, trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful. It was low the first time we visited and we were able to make it to the top of the falls to go swimming and the views were incredible," notes a Taconic State Park visitor.
Fishing near campsites: Most lakes in the region permit fishing with proper Connecticut or New York licensing. At Lake Taghkanic State Park, "The lake is gorgeous and there are very few people there. Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low."
Attend weekend events: Family-oriented campgrounds host scheduled activities throughout summer months. One visitor to Lone Oak Campsites mentioned, "Entertainment all weekend with lots of staff. Play areas, pool over 21 bar area bands etc. well worth a visit and close to berkshires."
What campers like
Large tent platforms: Several campgrounds provide elevated wooden platforms for tent setup. At Lake Taghkanic, "This was our second time coming to this campground and our second time getting dumped on by the rain, but have no fear!! The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!"
Clean swimming areas: Many parks maintain designated swimming areas with varying depths. "The swimming area is an absolute joke, unless you are 18 months old, and then it's probably perfect. (Extremely small, extremely shallow, and some sand to dig in)," notes one Lake Waramaug camper, highlighting considerations for different age groups.
Varied accommodation options: From basic tent sites to unique structures, glamping near New Milford, Connecticut offers multiple experience levels. At Mountain Lakes Park, "A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in. The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes."
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Many campgrounds feature closely spaced sites, especially in RV sections. At White Pines Campsites, "We stayed at site 85 in Sunny Crest and liked having some privacy. The sites nearby had some trees providing space between each site. A lot of the sites we drove by were pretty sloped."
Bathroom facilities fluctuate in quality: Maintenance schedules affect cleanliness throughout the season. A Lake Compounce Campground visitor stated, "The tent spots are small and close together. Also there is only one set of facilities for the whole place. It's quite a walk to the bathrooms."
Wildlife encounters occur regularly: Bears and skunks are reported at multiple campgrounds. "Coyotes bears oh my... This is an interesting camp ground. As I am set up for bed I see one other large green tent that looks deserted. People left their left over food scraps in the grass by my camp so not only has my dog been eating it, I also hear coyotes."
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have minimal to no service. One Lake Waramaug reviewer explained, "Cell service is basically non-existent. Our trip this weekend was the first time we received more than 1 bar in 20 years. You can drive about 5+ minutes out and get cell service."
Tips for camping with families
Book mid-week for quieter experience: Weekends draw larger crowds, especially at sites near urban areas. A Taconic State Park visitor advised, "This was a truly great campground, but it's proximity to NYC draws large crowds on weekends."
Consider alternative swimming options: When campground beaches are crowded or limited. "If you want a better place to swim go to Mt.Tom state park about 10 minutes up the road. It's a day use only park-no camping- but the lake is gorgeous and there are very few people there," suggests a Lake Waramaug camper.
Bring entertainment for rainy days: Some facilities offer indoor recreation spaces. Lake Taghkanic State Park has "Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days. A camp store with all the supplies you might have forgotten."
Tips from RVers
Check power requirements before booking: Electrical hookups vary between sites at the same campground. At Lone Oak Campsites, a reviewer cautioned, "Be careful on the map for what site has what amenities, and make sure to double check power requirements because it's not labeled on the sites and it varies."
Limited sewer hookups: Many campgrounds offer water and electric but no direct sewer connections. A Lake Compounce visitor noted, "None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out. The staff were very friendly and they had some activities like bingo and corn hole the weekend we were there."
Sites face neighbors at some campgrounds: Some RV areas use a face-to-face configuration. "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."
