Tent campsites near Norfolk, Connecticut cluster mainly along the Appalachian Trail corridor and surrounding state forests. The area sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,300 feet, with significant temperature variations between valleys and ridgelines. Summer nights often drop below 60°F even when daytime temperatures exceed 80°F, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
What to do
Hike to Alander Mountain: The trail from Alander Trail Campground offers challenging terrain with substantial elevation gain. "Absolutely love this spot and highly recommend if you're looking for a super private, true primitive camping experience. You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots," reports Kay D.
Trail run on interconnecting paths: The network connecting tent sites spans multiple state borders. A camper at Laurel Ridge explains, "It's quite a hike to get to this dispersed campground, so be prepared! We packed on our backpacks early in the morning and arrived there mid-afternoon. Very beautiful view, and an awesome spot!"
Observe wildlife from your campsite: Many campsites provide natural observation points. "We had some scares with coyotes and bears in the past but never anything crazy," notes one Alander Trail visitor, highlighting the importance of proper food storage in bear boxes that most primitive sites provide.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent campsites offer substantial spacing. At Alander Trail, Kay D. notes, "Once you get there, there's quite a few sites to choose from and each offer quite a bit of privacy. It's completely free and it usually isn't too busy since most people don't like having to carry all their stuff in that far."
Clean facilities despite remote locations: The composting toilets receive regular maintenance. "What I liked most about this campground is that it wasn't overcrowded. Each spot is easy to find off the trail. They also have bear boxes at each site! Although we were the only campers at the time the area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere! The outhouse was even clean!" reports Liz P. from Alander Trail.
Well-established lean-to structures: Riga Lean-To provides sheltered sleeping platforms. "We absolutely loved this little lean-to next to Bear Mountain... Riga has the lean-to as well as about 4 or 5 sites all around. There's no picnic tables at the other spots but there is one for the lean-to," notes Nora S.
What you should know
Water sources are limited: Most backcountry sites near Norfolk require hikers to carry all water or filter from seasonal streams. Campers at Onion Mountain Park report no reliable water sources: "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night. The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent."
Parking restrictions apply: Most trailhead parking areas have limited capacity. "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. However, it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite," clarifies Ricky H. about Onion Mountain Park.
Cell service is extremely limited: Expect signal blackouts throughout the region, particularly at lower elevations and within ravines. Marshall S. notes Onion Mountain Park 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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose more accessible sites for younger children: White Memorial Campground offers drive-up tent sites better suited for families with small children. "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean," notes Sara R.
Plan for temperature fluctuations: The mountainous terrain creates significant day-to-night temperature drops, often 30°F or more. Tina D. recounts at Brassie Brook: "Our trip was sadly cut short because we were freezing and it was raining a lot LOL but hey it's part of the experience. The fall views made it worth it."
Scout campsite locations before committing: Many backcountry sites require significant hiking with gear. One camper at Onion Mountain advises: "We set up the tent and started a fire (very easy as there are sticks and wood everywhere). Overall a very good camping trip, and we highly recommend it. P.S - There are a lot of bugs so be prepared."
Tips from RVers
Consider unique alternatives to traditional RV sites: The area offers limited RV options but creative alternatives exist. Chester Railway Station provides a unique camping experience where "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too. You hear the trains running at night. Very clean and comfortable," according to Esther L.
Research access roads carefully: Many campgrounds near Norfolk have narrow, steep, or unpaved access roads unsuitable for larger vehicles. Brad N. notes about Sodom Mountain Campground: "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back."
Pack for self-sufficiency: Most tent-focused campgrounds lack RV amenities. A visitor to Onion Mountain Park emphasizes "no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis," indicating the casual but limited nature of facilities in the region.
