Northfield Brook Lake camping offers distinct seasons for outdoor recreation beyond the typical summer period. The lake area sits at approximately 650 feet elevation within Connecticut's western highlands, where fall temperatures can drop into the 40s°F overnight starting in mid-September. Winter ice fishing opportunities emerge when the lake freezes consistently, typically from late December through February.
What to do
Hiking the Whitestone Cliffs: Black Rock State Park near Northfield Brook Lake features hiking trails with significant elevation changes. A camper at Black Rock State Park Campground noted, "Check out Whitestone Cliffs, Tory's Den, and Buttermilk Falls nearby."
Fishing for trout: The Farmington River near Northfield Brook Lake offers trophy trout fishing. A visitor to Austin Hawes Memorial Campground reported, "Excellent campground for tent campers. Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots."
Swimming alternatives: When Northfield Brook Lake has swimming restrictions, nearby options exist. One camper suggested, "If you want a better place to swim go to Mt.Tom state park about 10 minutes up the road. It's a day use only park-no camping- but the lake is gorgeous and there are very few people there."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds near Northfield Brook Lake offer larger than average campsites. A visitor to Cozy Hills Campground commented, "Very nice facilities. Most of the short-term sites are on a separate loop from the seasonals, which made for a nice short-term community. Sites are well maintained, with fresh wood chips and groomed gravel."
Year-round options: Unlike most seasonal campgrounds, a few remain open during winter months. A camper at Gentiles Campground shared, "Was here for Three months and it was during the winter and didn't have any problems great people sell propane on site, and will answer any questions you have."
Wildlife sightings: The wooded areas surrounding Northfield Brook Lake support diverse wildlife. One visitor at Lake Compounce Campground observed, "This is an interesting camp ground. As I am set up for bed I see one other large green tent that looks deserted. People left their left over food scraps in the grass by my camp so not only has my dog been eating it, I also hear coyotes. Won't be surprised if I see a bear in the morning."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage can be spotty in certain camping areas. A camper at Austin Hawes Memorial Campground noted, "Last but not least - no cellphone service, which is either a good or bad thing, depending on how you feel about it."
Bathroom facility issues: Several campgrounds have reported maintenance challenges. At Branch Brook Campground, one visitor found, "The pool and laundry areas were clean and seemed newer," although other facilities varied in upkeep.
Crowding patterns: During peak times, many campsites lose privacy. A visitor to White Pines Campsites observed, "We stayed at site 85 in Sunny Crest and liked having some privacy. The sites nearby had some trees providing space between each site. A lot of the sites we drove by were pretty sloped."
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to lake swimming. A camper at White Pines Campsites reported, "Large clean pool my kids loved swimming in. Staff is super nice. Small arcade."
Activity planning: Campgrounds vary significantly in organized programming. At Cozy Hills Campground, one visitor shared, "Well maintained, very clean campground. Lots and lots of activities for kids! Arts & Crafts, Arcade, Bingo, Casino Night etc. Pool is very nice for families - with no deep end, really safe for younger kids."
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds have natural hazards to consider. A camper at White Pines Campsites warned, "We found broken glass on the walking trail near our tent and by our fire pit which was really dangerous for our dogs."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: RV sites often have inconsistent utility options. At Lake Compounce Campground, a visitor observed, "Very well maintained and friendly staff will stay again when in the area. Does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station."
Site levelness: Many campgrounds in the hills around Northfield Brook Lake have uneven terrain. One RVer at Branch Brook Campground mentioned, "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."
Access limitations: Some campgrounds have challenging roads for larger rigs. A visitor to Gentiles Campground cautioned, "Stayed one night....roads were narrow and steep and hard to maneuver bigger trailers and rigs."
