Rocky Neck State Park Campground and Niantic KOA offer tent camping options within a 15-minute drive of Old Saybrook Center, Connecticut. The campgrounds sit along the Long Island Sound coastline where the average summer water temperature reaches 70°F. From primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots, the area provides camping accommodations across all budget ranges with most campgrounds open from May through October.
What to do
Beach access: Rocky Neck State Park provides both camping and beach activities in one location. "The beach is a short drive on site and the showers were one site over. I had a great time," notes a camper at Rocky Neck State Park Campground. The park has designated swimming areas with outdoor rinse stations available during summer months.
Hiking trails: The wooded surroundings near Riverdale Farm Campsites connect to multiple walking paths. "We did bingo and it was a blast. It was a beautiful day on the beach pond," mentions a visitor at Riverdale Farm Campsites. Most trails remain open year-round, with peak conditions from April through November.
Water activities: Kayaking and fishing opportunities exist throughout the region. "Anyone with kayaks can't easily get to boat launch. It's 4-5 miles by car at 4 mile river boat launch," advises a camper at Rocky Neck. Water craft rentals average $30-50 per day at local outfitters, with fishing licenses required for anglers over 16.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer well-sized camping areas. "Sites are very large and spaced out for privacy. The staff was friendly and helpful," according to a visitor at Niantic KOA. Most sites include a fire ring, picnic table, and parking for one vehicle.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high in camper priorities. "Immaculate bathrooms... every night we went to bed tired and looking forward to doing it all again the next day," shares an enthusiast at Odetah Camping Resort. Most campgrounds provide hot showers for registered guests.
Organized activities: Scheduled events keep campers entertained throughout their stay. "Lots to do at the campground especially for kids. Each weekend has a big schedule of events- farmers' market, themed activities and a band," notes a visitor at Odetah Camping Resort. Activities typically run from Memorial Day through Labor Day with reduced programming during shoulder seasons.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Old Saybrook require advance booking, especially during peak season. "We had booked a month and we were supposed to be staying right next to family. Due to a problem with the site she moved us clear across the park," explains a camper at Riverdale Farm Campsites. Reservations open 6-9 months in advance for most locations.
Site variations: Not all camping areas offer the same experience or amenities. "Equal mix of RVs big and small as well as many tents. Sites include one paved parking spot (ours was very muddy) a fire pit and a picnic table. No water or electric hookup," details a visitor at Rocky Neck State Park Campground. Site maps and detailed information should be reviewed before booking.
Shower facilities: Bathroom access varies widely between campgrounds. "The skunks are friendly! Great for kids," mentions a camper at Wolf's Den Family Campground. Most campgrounds clean facilities daily, though heavy usage during weekends can impact cleanliness.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple kid-friendly areas exist throughout regional campgrounds. "They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating," shares a visitor at Odetah Camping Resort about their Halloween camping experience. Most playgrounds cater to children ages 2-12.
Wildlife viewing: Natural animal encounters provide educational opportunities. "I have seen deer, turkeys, many birds, skunks, raccoons, and other wildlife along the way," reports a camper at Rocky Neck. Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing times, with quiet observation essential.
Activity planning: Structured programs help keep younger campers entertained. "They are close to local beaches and hiking trails. Our site was roomy and for the most part all functioned as it was supposed to," notes a long-term visitor at Strawberry Park. Weekend activities typically start around 10am and continue through early evening.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Service connections vary significantly between campgrounds. "Nice campground in the woods near hadlyme," states a visitor at Wolf's Den Family Campground. Most RV-friendly sites offer 30/50 amp electrical connections with water, though sewer hookups may be limited.
Site leveling: Terrain can present challenges for larger vehicles. "There are only a couple of 'primitive' sites here, and I do not recommend those sites because they are very close to the dumpsters," advises a camper about Mystic KOA. Bringing leveling blocks remains essential for most area campgrounds.
Dump station access: Waste disposal options must be considered for extended stays. "Grey dump at site. Power and water at every site. Very very clean. 50x30 sites common," reports an RVer at Wolf's Den Family Campground. Most facilities provide dumping services either at individual sites or at centralized stations, sometimes for additional fees.