Rocky Neck State Park Campground sits on the Connecticut shoreline where salt marshes meet hardwood forests at elevations between 10-50 feet. The camping areas feature varying terrain with both wooded and open sites available from late May through September. Temperatures typically range from 65-85°F during summer camping season with occasional rain showers that can create muddy conditions on unpaved areas.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Niantic KOA offers access to nearby trails and natural areas. "Nice that you can walk to the trails/beach and Rocky Neck. Bathrooms could be nicer, but not bad," notes Matt R., highlighting the convenient trail access from this campground.
Beach access: The shoreline is minutes away from most campgrounds. "Short walk to Rocky Neck beach. Nature Center has movies on weekends for kids," explains Nita D., describing the convenient distance to water activities from campsites.
Fishing opportunities: Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground provides stream access for anglers. "Great place for opening day of trout. Small little campground located in an amazing beautiful park. Go here every spring for opening day of fishing season and camp the entire weekend," shares Allan D.
What campers like
Large wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer good spacing between sites. "Sites are very large and spaced out for privacy. The staff was friendly and helpful," reports Matt T. about his experience at Mystic KOA.
Clean facilities: Washroom cleanliness varies between campgrounds. "Cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen at a campground," remarks Kay B., highlighting the well-maintained facilities at Mystic KOA.
Waterfront options: Crocker's Boatyard offers unique camping with water views. "We had a spot right next to the pool and the docks. Very convenient. The staff does a great job," notes John K. about this distinctive camping option near Niantic.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "This is the weekend before Labor Day and they were vanishing point the owner/shuttle driver, John, asked us if we would want to move on Sunday after a bunch of people moved out," explains Snooz H. about availability challenges at Niantic KOA.
Bathroom conditions: Facility quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "Bathhouses and toilets were not as cleaned as I would have liked but passable. Coronavirus social distancing required," mentions Nita D. about Rocky Neck State Park.
Site spacing considerations: Hammonasset State Park Campground has varied site arrangements. "The campgrounds are clean and spacious but very open, being a beach there are a few campers who enjoy staying up quite late and listening to music," notes Bianca M.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several campgrounds offer swimming options beyond the beach. "They have a nice pool area and water slide. Best part of the campground was the Bar Car. A converted bus offering frozen adult and kid friendly beverages," mentions Tony B. about amenities for families at Mystic KOA.
Planned activities: Odetah Camping Resort organizes regular events for children. "Each weekend has a big schedule of events- farmers' market, themed activities and a band. In addition there is good fishing on the pond, mini-golf, pool and splash pad, etc. Kids are not bored here!" explains Anne M.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Natural settings provide wildlife encounters. "The wildlife was incredible, a beaver family lives in the marsh so every night around 10 they would be up splashing around loudly," shares Shannon B. about her experience at Devil's Hopyard State Park.
Tips for RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate big RVs equally. "Really long or tall RV will need to stay close to the front of the campground, as typical older campground is not designed for 40 foot long or 10 foot high campers," advises Kevin J. about Wolf's Den Family Campground.
Hookup availability: Water and electric access varies between parks. "No hook-ups. This is a con in the heat of the summer if you want/need AC," notes Jessica A. about Hammonasset State Park Campground, providing important information for RVers requiring power.
Dump station access: Many campgrounds offer waste disposal options. "Grey dump at site. Power and water at every site. Very very clean. 50x30 sites common," explains Jeremy G. about the facilities at Wolf's Den Family Campground.
Pet friendly camping near Niantic, Connecticut is widely available at both state parks and private campgrounds. Most require pets to remain leashed at all times and restrict access to certain beach areas during peak season. Animal-friendly accommodations near Niantic include designated pet walking areas and, at some locations, dog swimming areas away from main beaches.
