Tent campsites near Old Saybrook Center, Connecticut cluster along the Connecticut River, requiring water or hiking access to reach most sites. The area sits where the river meets Long Island Sound, creating a tidal environment with water levels fluctuating up to 3 feet daily. Morning fog frequently blankets river campsites during summer months, necessitating flexible departure schedules for paddlers.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: River Highlands State Park River Campground offers exceptional wildlife viewing along the Connecticut River. "The campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river. As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)," notes Alicia B.
Hiking accessible camping: Onion Mountain Park provides primitive tent sites requiring a short hike from the parking area. "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night. The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent but has a firepit already set up," reports Nora S.
Swimming from campsites: Connecticut River access sites allow direct water entry from several camps. "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. It is amazing with the views of the CT River and being able to watch the sunrise and sunset. You can swim and fish and relax all day!" shares Jackie G.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Fire Island National Seashore offers secluded tent camping within day-trip distance of Old Saybrook. "So it's about a mile to three miles to the closest campsites on the western side. Very secluded, and peaceful weekend by the water," explains Nora S.
Water-based access: Gillette Castle State Park Campground features tent sites only accessible by water, creating a more exclusive camping environment. "There's a few sites close to each other, so it is nice to go with enough people to occupy them all at once to keep it personal," recommends Jackie G.
Established camping for beginners: Some Old Saybrook area sites provide good introductory camping experiences. "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," explains Marshall S. about Onion Mountain Park.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Deep River Landing requires parking permits during peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day for accessing boat launches to river campsites. Fire Island National Seashore requires reservations between March 15 and Labor Day.
Boat wake issues: Paddlers accessing island campsites should waterproof all gear. "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," advises Jason S.
First-come campsites: Several tent sites operate without reservation systems. "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis," notes Ricky H. about Chapman Pond Preserve.
Fire regulations: Fire restrictions vary between sites, with some prohibiting fires completely. "The only disappointments were that there are no campfires allowed and no dogs, but it's very understandable why. The park is protected which is the only reason it has stayed beautiful all this time," explains a Fire Island visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate sites: Select river sites carefully with children. "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," shares a camper from Selden Neck.
Beach access for children: Tidal river camping creates natural play areas. "At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on," notes a visitor about riverside camping.
Gear selection for boat-in sites: Pack minimal, waterproof equipment when paddling to campsites with children. "It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island," explains a Selden Neck camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent campsites near Old Saybrook Center, Connecticut do not accommodate RVs due to boat-in or hike-in access requirements. "Other posts claim you can park right at the site, but you can not. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take," clarifies Ricky H. about Onion Mountain Park.
Tent platform considerations: Several river sites feature wooden platforms rather than ground sites. "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view. Good site," describes Ben L. about Chapman Pond Preserve.
Seasonal variations: Connecticut River tent camping experiences change dramatically with weather conditions. Morning fog often delays departures from island sites, requiring flexible scheduling during summer months.
