Camping near Northfield Brook Lake

Camping near Northfield Brook Lake, Connecticut includes a mix of established campgrounds and recreational facilities within a short drive of the water. Black Rock State Park Campground in Watertown sits just 5 miles west of the lake, offering tent, RV, and cabin accommodations with boat-in access options. Branch Brook Campground provides another nearby option with standard amenities. The region is characterized by rolling hills, deciduous forests, and numerous waterways that create opportunities for fishing, paddling, and hiking in addition to camping.

Most campgrounds in the Northfield Brook Lake area operate seasonally from May through September or October, with a few exceptions like Gentiles Campground which remains open year-round. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and colorful foliage. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak summer months and holiday weekends. Fire restrictions may apply during dry periods, and campers should check with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for current regulations.

The camping experience varies significantly between locations near Northfield Brook Lake. State park campgrounds like Black Rock offer more natural settings with basic amenities including drinking water, showers, and electric hookups. Private campgrounds such as Lake Compounce Campground provide additional amenities including glamping options and yurts. According to reviews, site privacy can be limited at some locations. One visitor noted, "Sites are very close together with little privacy," while others mentioned the importance of booking early to secure more secluded spots. Most campgrounds are pet-friendly, though specific rules vary by location. Cell service is generally available throughout the area, though signal strength may vary in more remote camping areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Northfield Brook Lake (108)

    1. Lake Compounce Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bristol, CT
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 583-3300

    "Affiliated with Lake Compounce Amusement Park adjacent to campground."

    "It is adjacent to an amusement park so there were lots of families here. None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out."

    2. Cozy Hills Campground

    9 Reviews
    Bantam, CT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 567-2119

    $72 - $122 / night

    "While this might be fine for some dogs, I have 2 young border collies that will jump that fence like it is not even there."

    "We stayed near the water. Clean private bathrooms were a plus. Clean pool but only 3 feet deep."

    3. Black Rock State Park Campground

    5 Reviews
    Thomaston, CT
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 283-8088

    $17 - $50 / night

    "Beautiful state park, very clean .. fishing, lake swimming, hiking trails. Bathrooms, free showers .. stores within a 5 minute drive. Most of the camp ground site are not secluded .."

    "The family next to me offered me dinner one night after I spent the whole day working on my RV. Spanish rice chicken the works the plate could barely hold it all."

    4. Gentiles Campground

    7 Reviews
    Plymouth, CT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 283-8437

    $55 - $150 / night

    "Quiet CG near Waterbury CT. Close to major stores for resupply. CG has lots of friendly seasonal campers and lots of other sites."

    "There’s two brand new bathrooms on site one of which is conveniently located right by the pool. Owners are doing new renovations to make this place look good!"

    5. Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    12 Reviews
    Riverton, CT
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0922

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We were passing through Connecticut and needed a place to crash. Loved this campsite! Very chilled and secluded in your own site. I liked that it felt like a litrle community but still quotr private."

    "Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots.

    Definitely need to come back. Great rates on all sites."

    6. White Pines Campsites

    11 Reviews
    Winsted, CT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0124

    $74 / night

    "However one issue was the garbage situation. Had to walk a long distance to throw out the trash."

    "We got a tent spot and it was perfect since it was the furthest one away and there was no one near us which is probably why we loved it so much bc we were so isolated. a little disappointed in the site"

    7. Lake Waramaug State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    New Preston, CT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 868-0220

    $17 - $50 / night

    "My family has been camping at Lake Waramaug for over 20 years. I can say most of what’s been said is true or partially so but whether it’s bad or good depends on your point of view."

    "One of my favorite so far , went with family , to comply w covid and social distancing, the camp only rent your site and no one on your left or right or across ! Amazing !"

    8. Point Folly Campground

    2 Reviews
    Bantam, CT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 567-0089

    "The campground is right on Bantam Lake which is great for boaters/kayakers  fisherman and families.  I have found the east side of the lake to be much more windy than the west side of the lake.   "

    "Beautiful lake for swimming, kayaking or fishing. Small little island"

    9. Kettletown State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Stevenson, CT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (203) 264-5678

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We love this State Park because it's close to our home for a quick getaway. 

    This time we tried one of the sites on the water, and I probably wouldn't choose the same site again. "

    "Semi private with great view and nice walks to the water. Noise was not a problem overnight as to having problems with noises neighbors at other CT state parks."

    10. Branch Brook Campground

    2 Reviews
    Thomaston, CT
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 283-8144

    "Sites are pretty close together and the campground is close to a fairly busy road. The pool and laundry areas were clean and seemed newer."

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Recent Reviews near Northfield Brook Lake

478 Reviews of 108 Northfield Brook Lake Campgrounds


  • Christine S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Cozy Hills Campground

    Quiet and clean

    So far it's been pretty quiet but we are here at the beginning of October on a Monday. Nice area.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    Average

    We stayed one night in late September without a reservation. Bathhouse is old but was adequate with hot showers. We’re from out of state and paid about $23 for a tent site which was reasonable for the facilities.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Sylvan Lake Beach Park

    Great Beach Lake for summer swimming and Boating

    This is an old campground, but is quite quaint. Reminds me of lake camping that I grew up with. Hosts are very nice and helpful. This is more of a seasonal camping site. Do not follow your GPS directions. Get directions from the campground staff.

  • Michael
    Sep. 20, 2025

    The Quarry Campground

    The Quarry Campground

    Very quiet. At night all you can hear is the crackling of the campfire.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Gentiles Campground

    Nice place to stay

    Quiet CG near Waterbury CT. Close to major stores for resupply. CG has lots of friendly seasonal campers and lots of other sites. Most sites seem pretty level, but there are some steep roads in the CG. There is an airport next to CG, but it is for single engine private planes only so not a problem. Not by a major road so little traffic noise. I would stay here again.

  • Nicole G.
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Tolland State Forest Campground

    Great Lakeside Campground

    This was only my second camping trip ever (and first tent camping) so grain of salt here - We had a great time at Tolland. The site was spacious and equipped with a bear box, fire ring, and picnic table. The ground at the site was large gravel which was not great in the tent, but walking around it looks like most sites are more dirt and pine needles.

    The swimming area is small but sandy, great for kids, and my daughter loved thethe campfire and nature talk given on Saturday night by park staff.

  • Mike W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Cozy Hills Campground

    First time here

    Nice facility, friendly staff. They pack us in pretty tight in some sites.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    The Quarry Campground

    Lots of Amenities

    The Quarry has something for everyone. Swimming, fishing, hiking, seasonal, daily, full hookups or tenting. Lots of pull throughs!

  • Alicia B.
    Jul. 27, 2025

    River Highlands State Park River Campground

    Beautiful But Beware of Arachnids

    We only visited for the day and left around dawn, but the campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river. As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this). Otherwise, it’s a peaceful and scenic spot worth seeing!


Guide to Northfield Brook Lake

Camping near Northfield Brook Lake, Connecticut, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the nearby trails for stunning views and fresh air. Campers at Austin Hawes Memorial - American Legion State Forest appreciate the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer noting, "If you like nice big private sites, peace and quiet while providing a great location for fishing and hiking, then this is your kind of place."
  • Fishing: The Farmington River is accessible from several campgrounds, making it a great spot for fishing. A visitor at Macedonia Brook State Park Campground mentioned, "The brook was great for the kids to explore," highlighting the family-friendly nature of the area.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Bring your own gear or rent kayaks and canoes at Lake Waramaug State Park Campground. A long-time camper shared, "The lake is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoes and for fishing."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Kettletown State Park Campground, have fewer amenities. A visitor mentioned, "The camping spots are uneven, making it challenging to set up tents or campers."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A camper at Bear Creek Campground at Lake Compounce shared, "People left their leftover food scraps in the grass by my camp so not only has my dog been eating it, I also hear coyotes."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Kettletown State Park Campground noted, "During our stay, there were multiple large groups... and played loud music until midnight."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Lone Oak Camp Sites, which offers plenty of activities for kids. One parent said, "Lots of activities for kids. Most seasonal sites are held by employees."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or scooters for kids to ride around the campground. A family at Riverdale Farm Campsites enjoyed the activities, stating, "The kids who work here are so friendly and the playground is nice."
  • Pack Snacks and Meals: Since some campgrounds have limited food options, it's smart to bring your own meals. A camper at Lake Waramaug State Park Campground advised, "Plan on bringing your own food and cooking."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Lone Oak Camp Sites mentioned, "The sheer armada of golf carts constantly going up and down the road make you feel like you’re camping on a highway instead of in nature."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have close sites, which can be tricky for larger RVs. A visitor at Kettletown State Park Campground noted, "The sites were super close together and the boundary lines were unclear."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Since some campgrounds have limited stores, stock up on essentials before arriving. A camper at Riverdale Farm Campsites mentioned, "The camp office only sells ice and firewood, but there's a Stop and Shop nearby."

Camping near Northfield Brook Lake, Connecticut, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Northfield Brook Lake?

According to TheDyrt.com, Northfield Brook Lake offers a wide range of camping options, with 108 campgrounds and RV parks near Northfield Brook Lake and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Northfield Brook Lake?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Northfield Brook Lake is Lake Compounce Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 12 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Northfield Brook Lake?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Northfield Brook Lake.