Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Niantic, CT
Rocky Neck State Park Campground welcomes pets throughout its wooded camping areas with reasonably spaced sites. Several loops accommodate tent camping, RVs, and cabins where dogs can stay with their owners. Leashed pets must be under control at all times while at campgrounds near Niantic. Niantic KOA offers additional pet-friendly options including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts where dogs are permitted. The campsite is only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails—a great family campsite with easy access to activities. Both campgrounds maintain clean facilities with shared water spigots and fire rings at most sites. Campers should note that while pets are allowed, they must be attended to and should not disturb other campers with excessive barking, particularly during quiet hours.
Trails near the Rocky Neck campground provide excellent opportunities for dog walking, with routes that lead to the beach area approximately 20 minutes away by foot. Dogs must remain leashed on all trails and beach areas to protect wildlife and other visitors. The Niantic region offers several veterinary clinics within a 15-minute drive of the campgrounds for emergency services. When planning trips during summer months, be aware that the beach areas can become crowded, potentially creating challenges for those with reactive dogs. Campers report the wide-open spaces between some camping loops provide good areas for exercising pets away from main campground traffic. Many campsites feature shady areas where dogs can rest comfortably during hot weather, though bringing portable shade is recommended for sites in more open areas.
