Best Camping near Northford, CT

Northford is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Northford camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Northford, CT (108)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammonasset Beach State Park

    1. Hammonasset Beach State Park

    38 Reviews
    71 Photos
    288 Saves

    Hammonasset Beach State Park is the largest of Connecticut’s shoreline parks. Two-mile beach, facilities for swimming, camping (third weekend in May to Columbus Day), picnicking, saltwater fishing, scuba diving, hiking and boating; concessions. Nature center and interpretive programs. Bicycle rentals available through Labor Day, rates begin at $10 per hour and range up to $75 per week, with discounts for children. Helmets provided free to use and are mandatory for riders 15 and younger. Note: Lifeguards on duty on Wednesday through Sunday. Pricing: Weekdays: free for CT vehicles; $15/out-of-state $7 after 4:00 pm. Weekends and holidays: free for CT vehicles; $22/out-of-state $7 after 4:00 pm William F. Miller Campground. 558 open sites. Concession, dumping station, bathrooms, showers. Saltwater swimming and fishing. Individual fireplaces not provided. No pets.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash

    $20 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Neck State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Neck State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Neck State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Neck State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Neck State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Neck State Park

    2. Rocky Neck State Park

    23 Reviews
    62 Photos
    173 Saves

    Situated along the scenic Connecticut coastline making great camping near New Haven, Rocky Neck State Park is a is a small recreation area that features white sand beaches, salt marshes, and the rocky remnants of Ice Age glaciers. The park is located about 1 hour southeast of Hartford, near the town of East Lyme, with a view across the sound of Fishers Island, Gardiners Island, and Long Island. The park showcases several examples of ancient glacial terrain, including rock scouring and polishing, potholes and erratic boulders. In some places, the overlying sediment has been completely eroded away to reveal interesting outcrops of banded granitic gneiss. The campground at Rocky Neck offers 160 drive-in campsites for tent and RV campers. Visitors can choose from open, grassy sites and wooded, shady sites. Each site is equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, but RV hookups are not available. Sites can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 35 feet; some sites are tent-only. Water faucets, restrooms, and trash/recycling receptacles are located throughout the campground; a dump station is located near the campground entrance. Dogs are not permitted in this park. Camping is available from May through September; sites are $20–$30/night; reservations accepted. The main attraction at Rocky Neck is its wide, sandy beach, where visitors can lounge in the sun, or go for a dip in Long Island Sound. The park has several picnic areas for family and group gatherings, several miles of hiking trails for exploring the park’s salt marshes, waterways and natural features, and anglers can fish for saltwater bass, blackfish and flounder. Along the park’s western shore, the historic Ellie Mitchell Pavilion has concessions, and dining and lounging areas. The park also offers a variety of seasonal interpretive programs, guided hikes, wildlife viewing, and evening entertainment.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverdale Farm Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverdale Farm Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverdale Farm Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverdale Farm Campsites

    3. Riverdale Farm Campsites

    11 Reviews
    4 Photos
    51 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildwood State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildwood State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildwood State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildwood State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildwood State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildwood State Park

    4. Wildwood State Park

    22 Reviews
    64 Photos
    215 Saves

    Take the Virtual Tour! - WILDWOOD STATE PARK Wildwood State Park comprises 600 acres of undeveloped hardwood forest, terminating on the high bluff overlooking Long Island Sound. Swimmers can take advantage of the cool waters of the Sound, and picnickers can relax at shaded picnic tables as their children enjoy the nearby playground. Visitors can fish and use the hiking and cross-country ski trails, making this an enjoyable place to camp and be outdoors in any season. Geography: Wildwood State Park is located near Long Island Sound, on the north shore of Long Island, in Suffolk County. Recreation: Considered a flagship facility, visitors can enjoy the beach, biking, camper recreation programs, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and cross-country skiing. During July and August, movies are shown weekly, and once a week, campers can enjoy an evening of line or square dancing. Facilities: The park has 2 miles of beach on the Long Island sound for fishing and swimming. Each campsite has a picnic table, and dumping stations are nearby. There are 10 cottages, each with a fire ring, screened-in patio, and are available for rent through mid-November. The campground recycles newspaper and cardboard. Other amenities include food concessions, a nature trail, twelve miles of marked hiking trails, a picnic area, basketball courts, ball fields, a playground, and showers. Firewood is for sale at the park; bring your own barbecue or metal fire container.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Creek Campground

    5. Bear Creek Campground

    11 Reviews
    4 Photos
    49 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettletown State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettletown State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettletown State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettletown State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettletown State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettletown State Park

    6. Kettletown State Park

    13 Reviews
    25 Photos
    168 Saves
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Wolf's Den Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wolf's Den Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wolf's Den Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wolf's Den Family Campground

    7. Wolf's Den Family Campground

    7 Reviews
    4 Photos
    38 Saves

    Owned & operated by the Gustine family since 1994, Wolf’s Den Campground is located on 35 scenic acres in the beautiful Connecticut River Valley. Whether for the day, week, month or season, the campground is an ideal place to camp, relax and enjoy the great outdoor life with your friends and family. Every year thousands of families, many of them repeat customers, find their way to Wolf’s Den to join us for loads of fun activities, visiting many nearby attractions, and just kicking back and escaping for a while. We cater to all ages and lifestyles and welcome tent & popup campers, full time travelers, seasonals, and weekenders alike. As we celebrate over 50 years in the camping industry, we invite you to visit and experience all the family fun and camping excitement that we have to offer.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Devils Hopyard State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Devils Hopyard State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Devils Hopyard State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Devils Hopyard State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Devils Hopyard State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Devils Hopyard State Park

    8. Devils Hopyard State Park

    9 Reviews
    43 Photos
    56 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Niantic KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Niantic KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Niantic KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Niantic KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Niantic KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Niantic KOA

    9. Niantic KOA

    11 Reviews
    48 Photos
    70 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Rock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Rock State Park

    10. Black Rock State Park

    5 Reviews
    9 Photos
    134 Saves
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
Showing results 1-10 of 108 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Northford

Recent Reviews In Northford

513 Reviews of 108 Northford Campgrounds


  • Kathy T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Salt Rock State Park
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Salt Rock State Park

    Clean, but dated facilities

    Campground is a bit crowded with sites close together. The facilities were clean but quite old. There are some nice hiking trails along the river.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crocker's Boatyard
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Crocker's Boatyard

    quiet and surrounded by boats. clean restrooms and lovely pool nice people

    Needed a place to stay for 2 nights , My wife and I were going to show at the Garde Theater. Which was walking distance from the boat yard.

    Had a bite to eat at the Blue Duck, it was fine. Saw the show and walk back to the boat yard.

    The next day we took the ferry to Block Island which was also walking distance from the boat yard. Block Island a must see. Took the 5 pm ferry back. 

    Had dinner at a Thai restaurant which was 5 minutes walking and it was great.

    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.

    Head home around 12 pm stopped a Logee's Greenhouse on the way home.

    All and All it was a great get away weekend.

    Thank You Crocker Boat Yard!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kettletown State Park
    Sep. 10, 2024

    Kettletown State Park

    Great location, but not a good experience

    Camping Review:

    This campsite is beautifully located in the woods, offering a peaceful and serene environment. There are no busy roads nearby, which ensures a quiet setting during the day.

    However, there are several downsides to consider. The camping spots are uneven, making it challenging to set up tents or campers. Additionally, swimming at the nearby beach is restricted to residents of the village, so visitors are not allowed to swim there.

    During our stay, there were multiple large groups, including a Christian group that preached (screamingly) and played loud music until midnight, despite the designated quiet hours. Unfortunately, the management did nothing to enforce the rules, which was disruptive.

    Another significant issue was the state of the sanitary facilities. They were extremely dirty, with feces present in various places. It took a long time before anything was cleaned, which obviously kept us from using the facilities.

    Overall, while the location is beautiful, the poor management, noise issues, and dirty sanitary facilities seriously detract from the experience.

  • ALEX H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crocker's Boatyard
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Crocker's Boatyard

    Great for a quick stop

    Secure and convenient location. Site can be a bit loud but calms down during the evening . Bathrooms were clean and the pool was amazing. Definitely going back!

  • carol T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Waters Edge Family Campground
    Aug. 23, 2024

    Waters Edge Family Campground

    BEWARE WATERS EDGE CAMPGROUNDS THEY WILL KEEP ALL YOUR MONEY

    JUNE 30,2024  my husband & I were seasonals at waters edge campground Lebanon Connecticuit  gave them a 30 day notice we were leaving this place wasnt for us just awful the owners are just money hungey thieves they told us they were keeping our deposit wich we expected because it says non refundable deposit so okay fine but we paid for the whole season its open april15 to october15 gave a 30 day notice left june 30 they refused to give us back the money for july ,august,september,to october 15 they ket 750 plus 2500 dollars told us were not getting our money back So iam sure they rented the site thats double dipping so fair warning I dont want this to happen to anyone else they will Rob you blind oh and they broke our ice maker when they dewinterized our trailer and never owned up to it came down to my floor in camper soaked with water from my freezer and didnr bother to clean tthe mess and said  it must have been broken nefore so they are also dirty liars I didnt want to even give a one star rating but had to put somethin i give the a big fat 0

  • Steve Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crocker's Boatyard
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Crocker's Boatyard

    Great night at the Marina

    Easy access to the boatyard at night; pulled in, picked a spot and all good.

    Enjoyed the pool.

    Walked to Fort Trumbull.

    Recommend Crockers.

  • SomadNomad M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Granville State Forest
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Granville State Forest

    Gotta chance

    Dyrt says $17-$54 went through all the hoops to book one for tonight said $17 per night went to check out expecting a few extra fees, $58.50.....that's over the max advertised....DYRT YOU NEED TO GO THROUGH AND DELETE BAD ENTRIES. YOU ARE A DISSAPOINTMENT.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crocker's Boatyard
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Crocker's Boatyard

    boat yard camping!!!

    We were here on an extremely hot and humid couple days.  It was great to have electric and water hookups.  Also being able to use their pool with our grandchildren was great.  They were very accommodating with all our questions and needs.  No trees but its a boat yeard.  And very interesting to watch the goings on at a boat yard

  • Matt S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mystic KOA
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Mystic KOA

    Great campground for coastal CT & RI

    We stayed at Mystic KOA in North Stonington, Connecticut, to be tourists in Mystic. Spoiler alert… we had a great stay! 

    This campground is just 15-minutes from Mystic and about an hour’s drive to Newport, Rhode Island. It’s just a few minutes from I-95 and so close to Mystic Aquarium, downtown Mystic, Mystic Seaport, and all the local spots. 

    It’s a well-maintained campground with 2 pools(though the larger one was closed for maintenance during our stay), lots of play areas and daily activities for little ones, and a cool“pub truck” for adult drinks. Our site(#408) was about 85’ long with plenty of room for our 45’ motorhome and toad(and then some!). It was level and gravel with a nice fire ring and picnic table. The hookups worked fine with 50-amp electric and decent water pressure. Cable TV had nearly 50-channels, but the wi-fi didn’t quite reach our part of the park. 

    Due to a family issue, we needed to leave about a day-and-a-half early. We called the office as a courtesy to let them know as we were pulling out and received a partial credit for a night’s stay on our credit card. Didn’t even ask, they just did it. Thanks Mystic KOA! 

    We’ll definitely be back. This is a great place to stay when visiting the coastal Connecticut/Rhode Island area.

  • G Y.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Waramaug State Park
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Lake Waramaug State Park

    Quiet Rustic Camping

    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. Note that we are a Scout family and my husband and son have camped many days well off the grid with only the gear and food in their backpacks. That skews our point of view. 

    First off, Connecticut’s state campgrounds are not KOA’s. 

    Do not expect top of the line activities that private campgrounds have.

    What it does have are clean, large sites that are partially wooded and not out in the open. 

    The lake is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoes and for fishing. Bring your own gear but kayak and canoe rentals are available. The swim area is marginal- best for little ones. 

    This park is remote from all conveniences- pack it in or expect a drive. There have been several times I’ve driven to the Dunkin Donuts miles down the road for coffee but I find using a French press is more convenient. For takeout there’s the White Horse on 202. It’s ranked a top restaurant in the state - the food is good. 

    Never have we had issues with wildlife besides squirrels and ducks. Leave no trace is important - it keeps the unwelcome wildlife out. 

    There have been issues with the bathrooms off and on over the decades. It seems like they’ve finally fixed everything. Our trip of 7/27-28 showed everything was fine.

    The only on-site services are firewood and ice sales. The little food shack is out of business. 

    Yes, cell service is basically non-existent. Our trip this weekend was the first time we received more than 1 bar in 20 years. Actually we were a bit disappointed because this camp ground is a great place to disconnect and relax. Being forced to put away the devices is heaven in my mind. You can drive about 5+ minutes out and get cell service. Regarding rowdiness, of the 20+ times we’ve camped only twice was it a problem. 

    Also, this place is not glamping. The area is rural, so cows do moo at 6am, and kids are up even earlier. If you like to sleep in skip and rent a B&B. 

    Also 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.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Peppertree Camping
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Peppertree Camping

    Amazing stay

    We had our very first camping experience with our new camper at this campground and it was everything we could have imagined and more. It’s a beautiful campground, the gentleman and his family who own it are sooooo nice and they helped us a lot when it came to learning how to properly use our camper. All the fellow campers that we met were extremely nice. It’s a quiet campground, located right on a river. My children spent hours in it playing and fishing. Looking forward to returning.

  • Laura D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Brialee Family Campground
    Jul. 10, 2024

    Brialee Family Campground

    Best Camping Experience

    This was our families first time staying at Brialee Campground.  The cabin was absolutely beautiful and clean.  The staff were friendly and helpful. The activities were great and kept my grand children busy.  Swimming and the lake were fun.  I cannot say enough wonderful things.  We had such a great time I booked my reservations for Next July 2025 before I left.

    A special thank you to Sherri for the personal tour and showing us the ropes!  She is the best.

    The D'Avanzo Family

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Park
    Jul. 10, 2024

    Strawberry Park

    Large campground with 3 pools, many amenities and scheduled activities

    Large campground with 3 pools, many amenities and scheduled activities

  • Beth R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mystic KOA
    Jul. 5, 2024

    Mystic KOA

    Nice amenities

    Pros: 15 minutes from Mystic CT 50 AMP, sewer & water hookup Nice amenities

    Cons: Gravel site No shade Tight site & hard to get in/out for big rig

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Hither Hills State Park Campground
    Jun. 24, 2024

    Hither Hills State Park Campground

    Beachfront camping

    I took the train to Montauk on 6/20/24 and got a cab ($20) to the campsite.  All sites were reserved, but only 1/3 were being used. I was able to put my name on a waitlist and got a tent lot.  They wouldn’t let me register for more than 1 night.

    I was in A6, which is against the dunes (which are ~12ft tall), so I could hear the surf, but not see it. There was no one within 2 sites, so it was quiet.

    Friday morning, I put my name on the waitlist at 8am, I had to break down my site by 11am, and come back at 1pm to claim a site. I took J10 (which is on a bluff ~20ft above the beach and G, H and I areas). Strangely, I was offered a 2 night stay (Fri&Sat).

    Beautiful views of the ocean from my tent and I could still hear the surf. Area J has the best (newest?) facilities (bathrooms, showers, sinks (kitchen and personal)). Drawback is 10 minute walk to the general store/ranger station and 5 minutes to the beach (10 to swimming area).

    Almost no cell service! 2 bars was the maximum and finding that was rare. (Not enough service to get an Uber or play Spotify). There is a landline outside at the ranger’s station.

    General Store closed at 3pm, but Gurney’s is 1.5 miles down the beach if you want expensive bars and restaurants.

    FYI, guarded swimming area is ~100 yards wide and located next to the entrance circle.

  • Kerry G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Odetah Camping Resort
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Odetah Camping Resort

    “Camp”grounds that discriminates against tent campers

    Odetah Camping Resort called us today 24 hours prior to our arrival- after 4 years of camping there- to cancel our site unless we rented an RV and didn’t use tents. We were allowed to book and had the booking for 4 months. I was on the phone with them while I booked for assistance since it’s a group booking for 16. I called later to book a cabana too. They never once said anything. Then they called 24 hours in advance because our reservation said tent and that’s not allowed. Then they charged us a cancellation fee. Even tho they cancelled ON US. 

    But my favorite part is them saying that the camping industry is moving to no longer allow tents. They think they are*kind* to still allow tents-a handful of sites on a rocky hill that don’t have electricity or water. So those with medical needs cannot use those sites. Those with mobility limitations cannot either. 

    WHAT?! 

    Camping= tents. Change your name if you are going to discriminate. Don’t worry tho, you can put on a tent NEXT TO an rv on the sites. You just cant put only a tent. 

    Their customer service was horrendous. The experience was horrendous. What a shame.

  • G
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Point County Park
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Smith Point County Park

    Lovely campsite

    Truly great spot. Amazing sites with plenty of room, though they are close together. But was worth it for the amenities and fantastic views. Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view. Although most sites have views of the bay, some are blocked by seagrass (for example site 28 - huge corner spot but the flat spot to park has an obstructed view). Literally steps to the beach.

  • Topher L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Rock State Park
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Black Rock State Park

    Great Place to Relax

    The staff greeted with warm welcomes and big smiles. Even when I arrived on a rainy Sunday. Stayed until Friday. And the grounds staff smiled and waved as they went by. 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. No body bothered me and I was right front and center. Kids riding around on the bikes and lots of laughter from other sites. It was nice. Was able to just relax and do some school work and watch some webinars and get some much needed work done. This was my first of many stops on my countrywide trip. From NJ originally. Spent almost a week here in CT hitting Hartford for the weekend then off to Rhode Island. It was great. No water or electric hookup but I have solar and a generator and they have a wash area for dishes and REALLY HOT showers. Lol I like my showers hot butt my biscuits were burnin lol. They also have a dump station and a place to fill up ur water tank as well. 5 star all the way. Side note...the map online is misleading. I thought site 1 was like away and sorta back by no one...ha noppeeee I was riiiight in the middle where EVERYONE saw me lmao. No tree cover or anything! Lol. All good tho. That was my own fault for not calling and asking lol helped me level up on my social anxiety 😂🫣🤗😅

  • Theresa H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Devils Hopyard State Park
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Devils Hopyard State Park

    Nice for a small campground

    This was our first stay at Devil’s Hopyard campground. We enjoyed our stay and were happy with our site. It was great to hike and see the waterfall.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Suffolk County Sears Bellows County Park
    Jun. 2, 2024

    Suffolk County Sears Bellows County Park

    Tick Kingdom

    This is a nice campground - not crowded and centrally located. However, I cannot walk ANYWHERE without picking up ticks. Even on the large sand paths, going to and from the bathroom I find ticks. It’s amazing!

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Nickerson Park Family Campground
    May. 30, 2024

    Nickerson Park Family Campground

    Quiet and friendly all around.

    We visited for a our kids' spring break. Not many campgrounds open that early here in CT. The staff were super pleasant and helpful, and were all working hard the entire time we were there to prep that campground for their official "opening weekend". 

    The sites were all clean and seemed well spaced. The kids loved the playground, and they were putting a fresh coat of paint on things while we were there. The river that flows the length of the campground seemed clean and awesome. Staffers and other campers said kids tube down it when it's warmer, then just hop out and walk back through the camp to start over again. 

    Walmart & Aldi's is 10-15 minutes away. Pizza places/breakfast spots in the same area as well. Lots of state land to explore nearby.

  • Ryan A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Devils Hopyard State Park
    May. 21, 2024

    Devils Hopyard State Park

    Good Location for Hiking, Lots of Garbage, Not Recommended

    Camped here on a Friday night in Site 16, yet another campground recommended in“Best Tent Camping: New England.” Overall I was not impressed. The campsites are right next to each other and are marked with posts. The sites are so close that the posts are marked with the site number on both sides which tells me that there has been confusion in the past.

    The sites along the creek mostly have worn paths to walk to it but it’s nothing impressive and I wouldn’t want to eat fish that came out of it. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, some have the kind where the top flips over and others have the moveable grate that goes up and down. There is a large dumpster in the campground and several porta-potties. The old outhouses have been permanently closed and locked shut. My campsite had a lot of trash in it, old tent stakes, plastic bottle caps, plastic fork, broken glass, etc. Not good.

    Some of the people there were camping in a group and were blasting music. I didn’t see a single park ranger the entire night so I’m not sure how often they police it. Someone in a pickup truck came into the campground, did a u-turn, and sped out at 30 mph which was really annoying and unsafe.

    Across the street from the campground is a trail to Chapman Falls, which will take less than 10 minutes to hike to, but it’s a pretty waterfall despite all the foam and garbage around it.

    This is a pretty basic campground and is nothing special. Out of all the sites I think 22 looked the best, it is more isolated and you can hear the waterfalls from it, which would be relaxing. The downside is that it’s right next to the entrance and road so you’ll get car headlights at night.

    I woke in the morning to a gray sky and hundreds of birds singing– it was my favorite part of the trip. I delayed getting up to enjoy the moment. I also didn’t see any ticks but I’m sure there are plenty based on other reviews.

    I’ve always thought that if states were condiments Connecticut would be mayonnaise– relatively unremarkable and bland. This campground fits that description perfectly.

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Freedom Farm Homestead
    Apr. 9, 2024

    Freedom Farm Homestead

    New to the Dyrt!

    Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!

  • Jason S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Selden Neck State Park Campground
    Mar. 28, 2024

    Selden Neck State Park Campground

    Gorgeous riverside tent camping

    Selden Neck State Park is an island in the Connecticut River with no roads or development other than 4 campsites. You have to kayak or boat in. There's a boat launch across from the island on the west side of the river at Deep River Landing where you can leave your car. (Entering and parking at the boat launch requires a permit Memorial Day to Labor Day.)

    It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island. If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags. Once you get to the island, follow the bank north until you spot the sign for your campsite.  

    My 5-year-old and I camped at site 2, Hogback. I haven't visited the other sites, but probably will just book this one again because it was so good. Plenty of flat area to pitch a tent, nice picnic table and fire pit. There's a private outhouse. At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on.

    The sunset view was amazing. There was a little noise at night from boat traffic but it didn't keep us up. In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early. But it burned off before long and we headed back.



Guide to Northford

Camping near Northford, Connecticut, offers a mix of beautiful nature and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and sand at Hammonasset State Park Campground. The beach is popular, and kids can play in the stream running from a pond. One visitor mentioned, "The beach was popular," making it a great spot for families.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Kettletown State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "The shorter hiking trails in the area were really beautiful," perfect for a day of outdoor fun.
  • Amusement Park: Stay at Lake Compounce Campground for easy access to the amusement park. One camper shared, "It is part of the Lake Compounce Amusement Park," making it a hit for thrill-seekers.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate cleanliness at Odetah Camping Resort. A visitor said, "The campground was nice and large. Very family-oriented," highlighting the well-maintained amenities.
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers enjoy the helpful staff at Niantic KOA. One reviewer mentioned, "The staff is very friendly, courteous and knowledgeable of the area," which can make your stay more enjoyable.
  • Spacious Sites: At Rocky Neck State Park Campground, visitors noted, "The site itself is not very private but very spacious," allowing for a comfortable camping experience.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Rocky Neck State Park Campground mentioned, "Overnight noise was an issue," so be prepared for some late-night activity.
  • Booking in Advance: Popular spots like Hammonasset State Park Campground fill up quickly. One family advised, "If you are looking for a site it’s best to book far in advance."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Kettletown State Park Campground, lack certain amenities. A reviewer noted, "This is the only reason why I didn't give it 5 stars," referring to the need for better bathhouses.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with activities. At Odetah Camping Resort, one camper said, "This place has everything from a pool, splash pad, boats, food, ice cream," making it a great choice for families.
  • Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise, especially at campgrounds like Waters Edge Family Campground. A visitor mentioned, "Noise was not a problem overnight," which is ideal for families with young kids.
  • Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have limited food options. A camper at Lake Compounce Campground noted, "The staff were very friendly and they had some activities," so plan ahead for meals.

Tips from RVers:

  • Site Size: Check the size of RV sites. A reviewer at Rocky Neck State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites were long enough that our door wasn't directly across from our neighbor," which is a plus for RVers.
  • Dump Stations: Make sure to locate dump stations. One camper at Bear Creek Campground said, "None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out," so plan accordingly.
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups. A visitor at Odetah Camping Resort noted, "Some of the non-seasonal sites are very tight," so check site details before booking.

Camping near Northford, Connecticut, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a little planning, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular campground near Northford, CT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Northford, CT is Hammonasset Beach State Park with a 3.9-star rating from 38 reviews.

  • What parks are near Northford, CT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Northford, CT that allow camping, notably Hop Brook Lake and Northfield Brook Lake.