The North Westchester region of Connecticut offers year-round camping with temperatures averaging 70-85°F in summer months and 25-40°F in winter. Most tent camping sites close by mid-October, though several RV and cabin options remain open through November. The area features a mix of wooded campgrounds and lakefront properties within 20-30 miles of the coast.
What to do
Hiking at Rocky Neck State Park: Access miles of coastal woodland trails from the campground. "Beautiful campground right near the beach. Hiking trails along the coast line," notes Timothy R. about Rocky Neck State Park Campground.
Kayaking on site: Several campgrounds offer complimentary water sports equipment. At Wilderness Lake Park, "Nice walking trails and free kayaks as available," explains Kay B. The park also has "a fishing pond" and access to Taylor Pond nearby.
Mini-golf and games: Play on-site courses for approximately $2 per person. "Mini golf, pool, tennis, basketball, volleyball, lots of playgrounds for the kids," reports Jeremy G. about Wolf's Den Family Campground, noting it's a "Family oriented park" with "Bingo, board games, and other activities available."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer secluded spots away from busier areas. At Wilderness Lake Park, a camper found "The tent sites are nice and isolated, but not scary far apart. Lots of wildlife so keep your food sealed."
Evening entertainment options: Weekend events include themed activities beyond daytime recreation. "Each weekend has a big schedule of events- farmers' market, themed activities and a band," notes Anne M. about Odetah Camping Resort.
Halloween camping experiences: Fall camping includes special themed weekends. "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," shares Brian P. about his experience at Odetah Camping Resort.
What you should know
Cash-only policies: Some smaller campgrounds don't accept credit cards. At Wilderness Lake Park, a camper advises, "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared."
Limited bathroom facilities: Tent camping areas may have basic facilities. At Rocky Neck State Park Campground, "Bathhouses and toilets were not as cleaned as I would have liked but passable. Coronavirus social distancing required."
Site limitations: Tent-only areas may have restricted vehicle access. "My site was tent only and you couldn't pull your car up to the site so unloading and loading was a hassle," reports Carli V. about Rocky Neck State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Book yurt accommodations early: Yurt camping near North Westchester, Connecticut fills quickly during summer months. At Niantic KOA, "They will give free shuttle rides to 3 beaches & downtown Niantic, CT," notes Snooz H.
Check weekend activity schedules: Most family programs run Friday through Sunday. "They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Each weekend has a big schedule of events," notes Anne M. about weekend programming at campgrounds in the area.
Try early fall for fewer crowds: September offers warm days with fewer campers. "We went in cooler September during Covid, so we couldn't take advantage of all the amenities, but we've already decided we need to book a trip for peak season next summer," shares Dana C. about Brialee Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Arrive with gray tanks empty: Limited dump stations mean planning ahead. "Grey dump at site. Honey wagon available," notes Jeremy G. about facilities at Wolf's Den, adding "Power and water at every site."
Reserve sites near amenities: Larger campgrounds require significant walking. "The sites are a little close, but with so much to do you don't spend that much time at your site," explains Happy Camper L. about campground layouts.
Consider premium sites for space: Standard sites can feel cramped during peak season. "Lots to do at the campground especially for kids... Most sites are even and good sized," notes Anne M. about spacing at Wolf's Den Family Campground.
