Campsites near New Preston, Connecticut range from densely wooded settings to open lakeside areas, with elevations varying from 700 to 1,200 feet. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes, with peak camping season running mid-April through late October when average daytime temperatures range from 65°F to 85°F. Most campgrounds in the area require advance reservations, with booking windows opening 6-9 months prior to arrival date.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground, campers can fish directly from the shoreline or rent boats to access deeper waters. "My partner and I spent July 4th weekend here this year. The lake is gorgeous and there are plenty of nearby hikes for exploring. Wish I would have brought my fishing pole," notes one visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Hiking trails: Most campgrounds connect to trail networks suitable for day hiking. Trails at Taconic State Park range from easy 1-mile loops to more challenging 5-mile routes with moderate elevation gain. "There's a trailhead at the end of the campground that connects to the other trails in Taconic State Park," reports a camper who stayed at Rudd Pond Area.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas with varying amenities. "Best swimming experience ever. I went there with a friend and her family on Tuesday and it was awesome!" exclaimed a visitor to Lake Taghkanic State Park, which provides lifeguards during peak season hours from late June through early September.
Historic sites: The region offers access to significant historic landmarks. "Close to FDR home and library...a must to see. Quaint towns nearby," notes a camper who stayed at Interlake RV Park, located approximately 20-30 minutes from the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site in Hyde Park.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds feature raised wooden platforms that keep tents dry during wet conditions. "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!" shared a visitor at Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities rank high among camper priorities. "Superb. Quiet, clean enough and well worth the price. Showers are hot and there's great water pressure. The cleanliness of the bathrooms depends on how busy the campground is," reports a Lake Taghkanic visitor.
Family activities: Organized events provide additional entertainment options. "Cozy Hills Campground is very beautiful and rustic at the same time. The employees are all very friendly. Once you get the hang of getting around the area there is so much to do, I can't wait to go back," notes one camper about their experience.
Private bathrooms: Some facilities offer individual shower/bathroom combinations. "The bathrooms were great but I wasn't crazy how close we were with the other campers and right on the main road of the campground," mentions a Gentiles Campground visitor, highlighting the trade-off between bathroom quality and site proximity.
What you should know
Seasonal differences: Campground atmosphere varies dramatically between weekdays and weekends. "We stayed here in August 2020. The campsites are pretty close together, so if the campground is full, you are rather close to your neighbors. It was close to half full when we were there, and it still felt like a fairly noisy campground, even after quiet hours," reports a visitor to Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park.
Site variations: Individual sites within the same campground can differ significantly in terms of privacy, shade, and levelness. "Sites are close together, but being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!! There is plenty of fishing access from shore," notes a Rudd Pond camper, emphasizing how amenities can compensate for site limitations.
Reservation timing: During peak foliage season (late September through mid-October), campgrounds often book completely 4-6 months in advance. Some operate on first-come, first-served basis during shoulder seasons.
Road conditions: Internal campground roads present navigation challenges in some locations. "Roads were narrow and steep and hard to maneuver bigger trailers and rigs," reports a Gentiles Campground visitor about their overnight stay.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Several campgrounds maintain swimming pools as alternatives to natural water features. "This campground was one of the best I've been to. The lake is gorgeous and there are boat rentals. Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," notes a visitor to Lake Taghkanic State Park.
Recreation options: Family-oriented campgrounds typically provide additional activities beyond camping. "This is a large family campground with tons of stuff to do, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was. I really enjoyed our visit," explains a visitor to Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Child-friendly sites: Some campgrounds designate specific areas for families with children. "Prospects mountain is a great campground for families with younger kids. They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing," shares a visitor to Prospect Mountain Campground and RV Park.
Wildlife education: Several parks offer nature programs specifically designed for children during summer months, typically on weekend mornings.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: RV site lengths vary significantly across campgrounds. "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded," explains a visitor to Lake Compounce Campground.
Power requirements: Electrical service differs by location, with not all sites offering 50-amp connections. "Very nice campground. Has electric, water and cable TV connections. Clean bathrooms and nice store. It is part of the Lake Compounce Amusement Park," reports a September visitor.
Leveling challenges: Some rv parks near New Preston, Connecticut present terrain issues that require leveling equipment. "Our site was even and easy to level on. Lots of locals and summer residents," notes a visitor to Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Dump station access: While many campgrounds offer dump stations, operating hours may be restricted. Several campgrounds require advanced scheduling for pump-out service during busy periods.
