North Stonington sits in southeastern Connecticut's coastal region at approximately 300 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F, making it ideal for extended camping trips from May through October. Winter lows frequently drop below freezing, limiting year-round camping options to heated cabins and properly equipped RVs.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: The pond at Burlingame State Park Campground offers catch-and-release fishing in a natural setting. "Swim in the pond. Fish in the pond (catch and release). Bike. Hike. Hammock," suggests Jessica A., highlighting the multiple water-based activities available at this large Rhode Island park.
Kayaking routes: Launch kayaks from Rocky Neck State Park Campground and explore the protected coves. One camper noted, "Anyone with kayaks can't easily get to boat launch. It's 4-5 miles by car at 4 mile river boat launch," which requires planning ahead but rewards with excellent paddling.
Historical explorations: Fort Trumbull sits within walking distance of Crocker's Boatyard in New London. "Walked to Fort Trumbull," states a reviewer, while another adds, "Sunday we went and visited Fort Trumbull which is also walking distance away. Very nice place to visit and learn. Also took a tour of the Coast Guard Ship at Fort Trumbull."
What Campers Like
Waterfront sites: Direct waterfront tent camping at Hopeville Pond State Park allows campers to launch small craft right from their sites. "The gem is the canoe sites at the north of the campground. These are tent only... Sites CN02, CN03 and CN04 have direct waterfront on the pond. You can launch kayaks, paddle boards, etc right from the site!" explains Jason S.
Pool facilities: Summer heat relief comes from Wawaloam Campground's extensive water features. A visitor shares, "Large sites, great stone fire rings, full hookups, huge pool, waterslides, splash pad, playground, great camp store... this place brings a lot to the table for a very fair price of 60 bucks."
Ferry access: Campers staying at Crocker's Boatyard appreciate the walkable access to ferries. "The next day we took the ferry to Block Island which was also walking distance from the boat yard. Block Island a must see," reports James G., highlighting transportation options that don't require driving.
What You Should Know
Bathhouse maintenance: Bathroom cleanliness varies considerably between campgrounds in the region. At Whispering Pines Campground, one camper notes, "Bathhouses and toilets were not as cleaned as I would have liked but passable. Coronavirus social distancing required."
Seasonal facility availability: Early season camping may mean limited amenities. "I believe we camped there too early in the season to fully enjoy the grounds. The pool, splash pad, and nearly everything else was non operational or locked up still," reports Sean R. about Whispering Pines Campground.
Site separation: Privacy between sites varies greatly. At Hopeville Pond State Park, "Beautiful forest, but campground affords very little privacy between sites. RVs mixed with tents and noisy generators running all day and night," according to Julienne I.
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach access options: Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground provides convenient beach proximity. "Best location ever to the beach. New facilities, clean and quiet campground," states Sabine B., making it ideal for families wanting coastal access without moving vehicles.
Kid-friendly activities: Rocky Neck State Park offers nature programming for children. "Nature Center has movies on weekends for kids," shares Nita D., giving parents additional entertainment options during their stay.
Pack quarters for showers: Some campgrounds require coins for hot water. "Bring quarters for the showers," advises Katelain T. about Burlingame State Park, a simple tip that prevents frustrating trips back to the camp store.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: RVers should request specific sections at pet-friendly camping areas near North Stonington, Connecticut. For Fishermens Memorial State Park, one reviewer warns, "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 (55-65) are decidedly not level."
Winter RV accommodations: For late season or cold weather camping, Whispering Pines Campground offers full hookup sites important for heating. "Water and power are good, no internet to speak of, and many sites do not have sewer, but pump out is low cost and convenient," notes Tim, an experienced camper at the facility.
Security features: Gated campgrounds provide added security for expensive RV equipment. At Crocker's Boatyard, "Very friendly and helpful staff, great location, security gated after hours. Had water and 50 amp hookup," reports Frank I., addressing common RV owner concerns.
Legend
