Tent camping near North Franklin, Connecticut centers primarily on the Connecticut River corridor with sites that require specific access methods. Most locations maintain primitive conditions with limited facilities and seasonal availability from April through October. Winter camping is restricted at all sites due to lack of plowed access roads and potential ice conditions along the river.
What to do
River paddling access: Hurd State Park River Camping campsites can be reached by canoe or kayak, allowing visitors to combine paddling with overnight stays. Launch from several designated access points along the Connecticut River and plan for approximately 20-30 minutes of paddling time.
Wildlife observation: Quiet mornings at Hidden Lake Farm provide opportunities for spotting local bird species and small mammals. "Quiet and Private," notes visitor Ashley F., making it ideal for nature photography.
Historical exploration: Visit the castle at Gillette Castle State Park during daytime hours before returning to your campsite. "Castle has tours at certain times," notes camper Todd J., who recommends combining "a hike or a picnic" with the historical tour.
What campers like
Island camping experience: Selden Neck State Park Campground offers complete isolation from roads and development. Camper Jason S. describes the location: "Selden Neck State Park is an island in the Connecticut River with no roads or development other than 4 campsites. You have to kayak or boat in."
River views: Tent platforms at Chapman Pond Preserve face directly toward the Connecticut River, providing constant water views. Ben L. describes it as a "Good site" with "tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view."
Natural swimming areas: During summer months, several riverside sites have accessible swimming spots. At Hogback site in Selden Neck, "At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on," according to Jason S., making water access easier during certain times of day.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most riverfront camping areas have minimal amenities. "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse," reports Ben L. about Chapman Pond Preserve, but drinking water is unavailable at most locations.
Access restrictions: Boat access camping requires proper equipment and planning. For Selden Neck State Park, "You have to kayak or boat in. There's a boat launch across from the island on the west side of the river at Deep River Landing where you can leave your car," explains Jason S.
Wildlife considerations: River Highlands State Park River Campground maintains natural conditions including typical forest inhabitants. "Beware of Arachnids," warns Alicia B., noting "the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Weather impacts: Fog can delay morning departures from island campsites. One camper reported being "completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early. But it burned off before long."
Tips for camping with families
Prepare for boat wakes: When paddling to island campsites with children, secure belongings properly. A parent camping with their 5-year-old at Selden Neck advises: "If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags."
Choose sites with beach access: Look for campsites where temporary beaches appear during low tide. At Hogback campsite on Selden Neck, "At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on," providing natural play areas for children.
Consider noise factors: River traffic can create ambient sound at waterfront sites. Jason S. reports from Selden Neck: "There was a little noise at night from boat traffic but it didn't keep us up."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: North Franklin area primarily offers tent camping with few RV-suitable locations. Buck Hill Campground provides more space but maintains rustic conditions. Greg R. reports, "All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents)," but notes "very few amenities."
Group camping priority: Many sites cater to large groups rather than individual RVs. One camper describes Buck Hill as "a scouting campground (Cub Scout)" where "a few of the clusters have a covered patio area with electricity."
Rough access roads: Most camping areas have unpaved access routes unsuitable for large vehicles. Pack equipment that can be carried or transported by small watercraft to reach the best riverside camping locations.
