Tent camping near Northfield Brook Lake offers a range of primitive to semi-developed experiences across northwestern Connecticut. The region contains several Appalachian Trail access points with elevations reaching over 2,000 feet at nearby Bear Mountain. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, making spring through fall the primary camping season for most visitors to the area's forested campsites.
What to do
Hiking Bear Mountain: Access challenging trails from the Undermountain Trailhead near Brassie Brook Shelter. One camper advised, "After about a mile, you reach a trail intersection, stay left and continue up the hill until you reach the giant sign that reads 'Appalachian Trail - North and South'." The summit offers expansive valley views with elevation changes requiring moderate fitness levels.
Wildlife observation: The forests near Onion Mountain Park provide opportunities for bird and wildlife watching. According to a recent visitor, "We did put a bear bag about 100 feet away" during their overnight stay. Bear activity increases at higher elevations, particularly during spring and fall seasons.
Star gazing: Clear nights at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offer excellent night sky viewing opportunities. A camper noted there's "open fields for stargazing" throughout the reservation. Limited light pollution in the more remote camping areas enhances visibility during moonless nights.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many tent sites offer secluded settings away from neighboring campers. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, one visitor highlighted, "Lots of lean to sites with fireplaces in them. Our favorite site is #25. Up a hill, totally private and has a lean-to."
Camping structures: Lean-tos at various locations provide weather protection and enhanced comfort. A visitor to Riga Lean-To shared, "Riga has the lean-to as well as about 4 or 5 sites all around. There's no picnic tables at the other spots but there is one for the lean-to."
Clean facilities: Several areas maintain well-kept grounds and facilities. At Alander Trail Campground, a camper reported, "Although we were the only campers at the time the area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere! The outhouse was even clean!"
What you should know
Permit requirements: Most sites operate on first-come basis without reservations. At Onion Mountain Park, a camper noted, "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis."
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary significantly between camping areas. While some sites allow fires, a visitor to Ten Mile River Shelter pointed out, "There are also no fires allowed on the CT A.T." Always check current restrictions before planning to have a campfire.
Access difficulty: Many campsites require significant hiking to reach. At Alander Trail Campground, a camper explained, "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots." Pack accordingly with appropriate backpacks and lightweight gear.
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly locations: Some sites offer beginner-appropriate camping experiences. At Onion Mountain Park, a visitor shared, "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it."
Child-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds provide additional facilities for children. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation includes family features, with one camper mentioning it's "Pet friendly and kid friendly with a playground available."
Cold weather preparation: Temperatures drop significantly at night, even during summer months. One visitor to Laurel Ridge warned, "It was pretty cold in the 50s and down to 40s late at night (this was OCT)." Pack additional warm layers for children, especially during spring and fall camping trips.
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options: Most primitive camping areas near Northfield Brook Lake don't accommodate recreational vehicles. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, sites are primarily designed for tent camping with a reviewer noting the "shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather."
Vehicle access restrictions: Many campgrounds require hiking to reach tent sites. At Onion Mountain Park, a camper clarified, "Other posts claim you can park right the site, but you can not. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take. However, it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."
Parking availability: Even tent-focused campgrounds have designated parking areas. Hikers accessing Brassie Brook Shelter noted, "You can park at the Undermountain Trailhead area" before hiking to the campsite, providing secure overnight vehicle storage during multi-day backcountry camping trips.
