North Franklin, Connecticut sits in New London County at roughly 400 feet above sea level with mild humid summers reaching highs around 83°F and cold winters averaging 20-35°F. Camping in this region offers access to both woodland and water environments with several campgrounds operating outside the typical May-October season. Weekend availability typically decreases significantly after Memorial Day.
What to Do
Water activities on Hopeville Pond: Hopeville Pond State Park Campground offers a pond where campers can fish, kayak, and swim. "We camped, swam, fished, hiked and picnic. Be careful of the chipmunks, that are great sneaks that will sneak a chip or some small morsel if avail," notes camper Herbert F.
Local fishing spots: Waterways throughout the area provide fishing opportunities. At Waters Edge Family Campground, one camper mentioned, "There's a nice lake to float on, a clean pool to swim in, activities every weekend. I camp here seasonally and love it."
Hiking near Devil's Hopyard: The waterfall at Devil's Hopyard State Park is accessible via a short hike. "We biked from the Chester ferry to Devils Hopyard campground, at the north part of the park. The waterfall was a quick walk away and you could hike down to the river for a quick dip," noted Robert L.
Paddling adventures: Many campgrounds feature rivers and ponds for water activities. "We tubed down river, fished the pond, swam in the pool, did the hay ride, even attended the dance at night," shares Erik M. about his experience at Hidden Acres Campground.
What Campers Like
Event weekends: Campgrounds regularly schedule themed activities. At Brialee Family Campground, visitors enjoy organized recreation: "We had so much fun & we were never short on something to do...From a massage at the Spa to a fun band by the lake, to Bingo night, mini-golf and awesome ice cream Sundaes."
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight facility maintenance as a deciding factor. "Clean, comfortable campground aimed more towards glamping. Lots of rv sites and very nice cabins. Cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen at a campground," mentioned one visitor to Mystic KOA.
Privacy levels: Site seclusion varies significantly between campgrounds. At Waters Edge, Rob L. appreciated, "Most amazing weekend with tons of woods (privacy is huge for us). Very friendly guests and staff! Amazing weekend with lots of fun for the kids and even the dogs!"
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds offer unique seasonal events throughout their operating months. Regarding Odetah Camping Resort, Brian P. shared, "We went two years in a row each on Halloween! They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating."
What You Should Know
Tent restrictions: Some resorts limit tent camping or designate specific areas. One review for Odetah noted, "They think they are kind to still allow tents-a handful of sites on a rocky hill that don't have electricity or water. So those with medical needs cannot use those sites."
Site spacing variations: Campsites at some parks provide minimal separation. At Salt Rock Campground, a visitor observed, "Campground is a bit crowded with sites close together. The facilities were clean but quite old. There are some nice hiking trails along the river."
Facility limitations: Some state parks have minimal facilities. At Devil's Hopyard, a camper noted, "There is no running water or electricity but the campground still served its purpose. The waterfall was a quick walk away and you could hike down to the river."
Noise levels: Quiet hours enforcement varies by campground. One Salt Rock visitor reported, "If you DON'T enjoy privacy, or peace and quiet, or rules being enforced, such as quiet hours...then you will maybe like it here."
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for recreational variety: Campgrounds with multiple activities keep children engaged. A visitor at Strawberry Park mentioned, "This KOA provides a lot to do for kids and families. The pool is small and usually crowded, but still very well kept. And then there's mini golf, hay rides, and lots of fun planned activities."
Consider campground layout: Some facilities are designed for biking and independent exploration. About Brialee, a camper shared, "The kids ride their bikes to the sports fields, the rec center for the pool and activities. Oh and my young children LOVE the air pillow, they have spent hours on there."
Balance amenities with budget: State park campgrounds typically cost less but offer fewer services. A camper at Devil's Hopyard shared, "Stayed here on a Friday night in Site 16... The sites along the creek mostly have worn paths to walk to it but it's nothing impressive."
Prioritize water access: Swimming options are important for families in summer months. At Hidden Acres, visitors enjoy "Large well established and clean. Great mix of seasonal and vacation campers. Nice river with small beach. Arts and crafts for kids."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions vary: Some campgrounds accommodate larger rigs while others have space limitations. At Salt Rock Campground, a visitor observed, "Good choice of campsites, from open to wooded, rustic to power and water. Nice open field for activities."
Hookup availability: Utility options differ significantly between facilities. A Mystic KOA camper noted, "Our site (Q15) was all grass which was fine with us because the grass was nice and thick. There was no defined pad, instead just hookups to back in next to so you have lots of flexibility as to how you park."
Seasonal considerations: Off-season camping offers reduced crowds but limited services. A Salt Rock visitor observed, "Salt Rock, September 18-19, 2021: Perhaps one-third full, this was a nice stop. The bathhouses are a bit outdated, but clean and functional."
Gray water handling: Sewer connections aren't universal. A Brialee camper noted, "This is a large seasonal oriented campground... There was not full service sewer hook up, only gray water. There was a dump station."
