Rocky Neck State Park Campground and Niantic KOA feature tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts within short distances of Long Island Sound beaches. Niantic sits along Connecticut's southeastern shoreline where the Thames River meets Long Island Sound at elevations ranging from sea level to 100 feet. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F with humidity that can make tent camping warm during July and August. Fall camping season extends into late October with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s.
What to do
Beach access at multiple parks: Walk to the water from Rocky Neck State Park Campground where you can enjoy both the beach and trails. "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," notes Mauricio R.
Kayaking nearby waterways: Bring your own kayak or rent locally to explore the Thames River or inlets around Niantic. One camper at Riverdale Farm Campsites mentions, "My only regret is we didn't have a car. Some sites were a bit too far or too dangerous to bicycle (the roads were curvy and didn't have much of a shoulder) so we spent money on Uber/Lyft to visit a few local sites for example to rent kayaks to explore the inlet and river."
Seasonal activities throughout year: Fall camping offers different experiences than summer visits. At Niantic KOA, activities continue well into autumn with fewer crowds. "So much going on! They will give free shuttle rides to 3 beaches & downtown Niantic, CT," says Snooz H., highlighting transportation options that extend your exploration range without needing a vehicle.
What campers like
Privacy levels vary by campground: Sites at Witch Meadow Lake Campground offer more seclusion than some closer to town. "The owner of the property takes pride in the campground and it shows. She takes care of the campers. Swimming pool, facilities, small lake as well larger lakes in the surrounding area," reports Pauly P., noting both the on-site lake and surrounding water features.
Yurt camping options in Niantic, Connecticut: While seasonal tent sites close earlier, yurt camping in Niantic, Connecticut extends later into fall. "On our way to Maine we wanted a spot off 95. Check in was a breeze. Sites are very large and spaced out for privacy. The staff was friendly and helpful. If your heading North or South through CT this is a good stop over," shares Matt T. about his experience at Niantic KOA.
Water recreation beyond ocean beaches: Small ponds and lakes complement ocean access. At Hidden Acres Campground, "We tubed down river, fished the pond, swam in the pool, did the hay ride, even attended the dance at night. Definitely be sure to grab a snack at the food hit they have. Very good food. Also great general store," says Erik M. describing multiple water activities available.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Coastal Connecticut experiences afternoon thunderstorms during summer months. Pack appropriate rain gear as storms can develop quickly. "I've lived in CT all my life but never used the Rocky Neck State Park Campground until now. Sites include one paved parking spot (ours was very muddy) a fire pit and a picnic table. No water or electric hookup. Wi-fi not available at this campground," notes Nita D.
Limited non-electric sites: Most tent camping without hookups is concentrated in specific areas. "There are only a couple of 'primitive' sites here, and I do not recommend those sites because they are very close to the dumpsters," warns Cynthia K. about Mystic KOA's layout for tent campers.
Campground size affects experience: Larger campgrounds offer more amenities but less wilderness feeling. Burlingame State Park Campground in nearby Rhode Island illustrates this tradeoff: "Burlingame is a HUGE state park campground with over 700 sites. The location is fantastic, but with this many sites (so, with this many people), there are bound to be pros and cons," explains Jessica A.
Tips for camping with families
Evening activities for children: Many campgrounds offer organized programs after dinner. "Mini golf, pool, tennis, basketball, volleyball, lots of playgrounds for the kids. Family oriented park. Bingo, board games, and other activities available," says Jeremy G. about Wolf's Den Family Campground.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Check recent reviews for cleanliness reports before booking with young children. "Bath houses and toilets were not as cleaned as I would have liked but passable. Coronavirus social distancing required," reports Nita D. about Rocky Neck facilities, providing context about cleanliness standards.
Beach alternatives for younger children: Ocean waves can be rough for small children. "The lake is perfect, the river needs work. But this an awesome small campground. The kids who work here are so friendly and the playground is nice. They did a show on the beach one night that was fun too," shares Nick H. about Riverdale Farm's pond beach that offers calmer water than ocean beaches.
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. Burlingame State Park provides dump stations but no sewer hookups: "There are two dumping spots each with two dumps," notes Andrew P., adding practical information for longer stays.
Levelness varies between sites: Research specific site reviews before reserving. "Site was wide and allowed me to easily back in. Near perfect level. New fence poles show renovations were consistently done. Two easy dump stations with nice clean area," explains Michael C. about Strawberry Park, highlighting recent improvements.
Road conditions to campgrounds: Some access roads present challenges for larger rigs. "The road into the campground is narrow and winding, so larger RV mss as y have trouble, but there were several of them there when we were there," reports Joel R. about Riverdale Farm Campsites, noting that despite challenges, large RVs do successfully navigate the entrance.
