Tent campsites near Newington, Connecticut range from riverside platforms to woodland hideaways accessible by hiking trails. The region sits within the Connecticut River Valley, with elevations between 40-300 feet above sea level, creating varied camping terrain. Most primitive sites remain open year-round, though riverside locations may flood during spring runoff in March and April when water levels rise.
What to do
Paddle to island sites: Access Selden Neck State Park Campground by kayak from Deep River Landing, requiring about a 20-minute paddle across the Connecticut River. "You have to kayak or boat in. Entering and parking at the boat launch requires a permit Memorial Day to Labor Day," notes Jason S., who recommends waterproofing gear due to boat wake on river crossings.
Hike to mountaintop shelters: Reach primitive backcountry sites along the Appalachian Trail near Brassie Brook Shelter. "We started our hike at the under-mountain trailhead, located right off route 41, and climbed up the mountain. Be prepared for steep inclines, and lots of rocks," warns Nora S., describing the challenging 1-mile ascent to the trail intersection.
Waterfront recreation: Camp at riverside sites with swimming access in summer months. At Gillette Castle State Park Campground, camper Jackie G. reports, "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. You can swim and fish and relax all day!"
What campers like
Peaceful overnight spots: First-come, first-served sites at Onion Mountain Park provide quiet surroundings within 15 miles of Newington. Camper Ricky H. describes, "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis. Other posts claim you can park right the site, but you can not. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take."
Island solitude: Low-traffic camping locations on Connecticut River islands create unique experiences. At Selden Neck, Jason S. found "Plenty of flat area to pitch a tent, nice picnic table and fire pit. There's a private outhouse. At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on."
River views: Waterfront camping offers scenic perspectives throughout the day. According to Marshall S. regarding Onion Mountain Park, "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most primitive tent sites lack facilities. At Chapman Pond Preserve, Ben L. notes the basics: "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view."
Site accessibility: Check trail conditions and access requirements before heading out. For Brassie Brook Shelter, Tina D. advises, "You can park at the Undermountain Trailhead area. Once you hit the AT go to the right and it goes to the summit. From the summit it was a left and another mile or so."
Permit requirements: River access points may require day-use permits during peak season. For Selden Neck campers, Jason S. notes that "Entering and parking at the boat launch requires a permit Memorial Day to Labor Day."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Choose accessible sites for children's first camping experiences. Marshall S. recommends Onion Mountain Park: "It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it so no need for a bear bag."
Pack appropriate gear: Bring compact equipment for small primitive sites. Nora S. advises about Onion Mountain: "The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent (no group sites)."
Prepare for wildlife: Take proper food storage precautions depending on location. Although some sites like Onion Mountain are described as not requiring bear bags according to some reviews, others like Nora S. recommend "we did put a bear bag about 100 feet away."
Tips from RVers
Alternative accommodations: Consider tent camping at Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground when RV hookups aren't available. Sara R. describes it as having a "Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean."
Access limitations: Note that most primitive tent sites near Newington cannot accommodate RVs due to access restrictions and site sizes. Choose established campgrounds with designated parking areas when traveling with larger vehicles.
Seasonal considerations: Plan around weather patterns, especially for sites with dirt access roads. At Sodom Mountain Campground, Brad N. mentions, "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired," indicating previous access issues during wet seasons.
