Best Tent Camping near Oakdale, CT
Tent campgrounds around Oakdale, Connecticut focus primarily on riverside locations with water access along the Connecticut River. Gillette Castle State Park Campground and Selden Neck State Park Campground both offer tent-specific sites with river views and boat-in access options. Chapman Pond Preserve provides a primitive tent camping experience with hike-in access, while Hidden Lake Farm features five designated tent sites with basic amenities.
Most riverside tent sites require watercraft for access, with kayaks and canoes being the most practical options. Selden Neck State Park is situated on an island with no road access, requiring approximately a 20-minute paddle from the Deep River Landing boat launch. Sites typically include flat tent pads, fire rings, and picnic tables, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Campers should pack all water and supplies when visiting primitive sites. Chapman Pond Preserve features tent platforms but minimal services. A visitor commented that the site has "good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view."
Connecticut River camping provides distinctive experiences for tent campers seeking water-based outdoor recreation. Many sites feature private outhouses, fire pits, and picnic tables, though potable water is rarely available. River Highlands State Park River Campground offers scenic riverside tent sites that provide direct water access. "The campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river," noted one camper. Hidden Lake Farm stands out as one of the few established tent campgrounds with drinking water, showers, and toilet facilities. Boat-in campgrounds along the Connecticut River remain less crowded than standard drive-in options, offering greater solitude despite occasional boat traffic. Most riverside tent sites provide excellent fishing access and swimming opportunities during summer months, with prime viewing for both sunrise and sunset over the water.
