North Stonington offers camping options in a temperate region of southeastern Connecticut, where summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with moderate humidity. The area sits at approximately 200-400 feet of elevation in Connecticut's coastal lowlands, creating a mix of wooded and open terrain for camping. Most campgrounds in the North Stonington region operate from April through October, with several remaining open year-round for visitors seeking camping accommodations.
What to do
Beach access: about a mile away: Rocky Neck State Park Campground provides access to swimming areas via a tunnel under railroad tracks. "I love this campsite, I have been going with my friends and family for as long as I can remember. It's right near the beach, and the campsites and bathrooms are always clean!" notes a camper at Rocky Neck State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: on-site ponds: Many area campgrounds feature stocked fishing ponds or waterfront access. At Whispering Pines Campground, visitors can enjoy fishing in the on-site pond. The area also features bocce, volleyball, horseshoes, and an arcade as one visitor noted: "We stayed for 3 nights, the sites and camp were very clean and well maintained. Everyone was very friendly, lots of things to do - pool, bocce, volleyball, horseshoes, arcade, a small field to play frisbee or ball."
Kayaking nearby waterways: The region features several lakes, ponds, and coastal areas suitable for paddling. "One day we launched our kayaks north of the drawbridge in town at the public launch and paddled down to Mystic Seaport which was fun to see the historic boats from the water," shares a visitor about exploring water routes near Mystic.
What campers like
Expansive wooded sites: Burlingame State Park offers 700+ campsites set in forested areas with plenty of space between them. "Spacious - even with all those sites, there's plenty of room between sites and tons of open space for kids to run around, fly a kite, play tag, hide and seek," reports a visitor at Burlingame State Park Campground.
Marina camping options: For a unique camping experience, Crocker's Boatyard offers RV sites directly on the harbor with pool access. A visitor comments, "We were here on an extremely hot and humid couple days. It was great to have electric and water hookups. Also being able to use their pool with our grandchildren was great. They were very accommodating with all our questions and needs."
Well-maintained facilities: Multiple campgrounds in the area keep their facilities clean and updated. A camper at Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground shares, "Rainy nasty October weekend but nonetheless facilities were spotless. Hookups were awesome and easy. Layout is amazing, mostly pull through and pet friendly. Definitely a summer destination next year."
What you should know
Varying policies on alcohol: Different campgrounds have different policies about alcohol consumption. While some ban it entirely, others permit it. Check specific rules before bringing alcoholic beverages, as some parks like Hopeville Pond State Park do not allow alcohol on premises.
Shower facilities and costs: Shower availability varies between campgrounds, with some offering free facilities and others requiring payment. One camper notes about Hopeville Pond State Park Campground: "In the main section, there is a very large and clean indoor bathhouse with free showers. Did not use the shower so cannot comment. Appreciated that there was immediate hot water at the sinks."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially during peak season. Sites fill quickly during summer months and holiday weekends. A visitor at Rocky Neck State Park Campground advises, "Beach can be crowded. But it is worth it. Nice food shack. Great family place."
Tips for camping with families
Waterslides and splash pads: Several campgrounds offer water attractions for children. Wawaloam Campground provides extensive water features. "This is kid heaven. Families laughing & enjoying themselves. Besides the pool they have a splash pad, a water slide, mini golf, a nice pond for fishing. The playground is nice," shares a camper at Wawaloam Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to see local wildlife. "The beach is about a 1 mile walk or drive from the campground. The walk is lovely and I have seen deer, turkeys, many birds, skunks, raccoons, and other wildlife along the way," notes a camper about walking around Rocky Neck State Park.
Planned activities for children: Seasonal activities and entertainment are available at several campgrounds. At Mystic KOA, "We chose Mystic KOA and stayed in a full hook up-50amp pull through site. On arrival, the campground was clean and spacious. Office staff very helpful with check in, and we were easily able to find our site. There were many things to do within the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Site spacing varies greatly between campgrounds. Some offer spacious pull-through sites while others have tighter arrangements. A camper at Mystic KOA notes: "Our site was a nice long, level pull-thru. Hook-ups were placed in ideal locations for the pad which was gravel. The cable tv worked well and many sites would accommodate satellite users."
Hookup availability: Most RV campgrounds in the area offer full hookups or at least water and electric. Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground has "four areas, and each has advantages and disadvantages. Area One has the best views and full hookups but there is no bathhouse; Area Two also has full hookups, no view and some of the sites are decidedly not level."
Noise considerations: Proximity to highways and density of sites affect noise levels. "Road noise continued throughout the night and there is a wind turbine on the property. I've never been this close to one and yes, there is noise, although the road noise bothered me more," reports a visitor about staying near Narragansett.
