Campers near New London, Connecticut have access to both freshwater and saltwater recreation areas within a 25-mile radius. The coastal region maintains average summer temperatures of 75-85°F during peak camping season from May to September, with higher humidity levels near the shore. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations under 300 feet, offering relatively flat terrain suitable for novice campers.
What to do
Beach access at Rocky Neck State Park: Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day with lifeguards on duty from 8am-5pm. The beach area includes restrooms, changing facilities and outdoor showers. A camper notes, "The beach is about a 1 mile walk or drive from the campground. The walk is lovely and I have seen deer, turkeys, many birds, skunks, raccoons, and other wildlife along the way."
Kayaking at Burlingame State Park: Located 25 miles east of New London in Charlestown, RI, this park features Watchaug Pond for paddling. The pond covers 573 acres with several small islands and coves to explore. "Excellent for bikes, there are in-camp roads, so big you can get lost(sorta), store was good," mentions a visitor.
Block Island ferry trips from Crocker's Boatyard: Located in New London harbor, this unique RV camping spot provides walking distance access to the Block Island ferry. "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," shares one camper.
Mini-golf nearby Aces High RV Park: Just 5 minutes from the campground, families can enjoy mini-golf at a nearby entertainment center. "Local kayaking areas and about 30 min to Foxwoods Casino, even closer to Mohegan Sun. Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium are also not too far. Nearby (5min drive) is also a fun looking place for mini golf," a visitor recommends.
Fort Trumbull exploration: The historic fort sits on the Thames River and offers military history exhibits with panoramic harbor views. "Walked to Fort Trumbull. Recommend Crockers," shares one camper about the easy access from boat yard camping to this historic site.
Fishing at Odetah Camping Resort: The campground features a well-stocked pond for catch-and-release fishing, perfect for beginners and families. "There is good fishing on the pond, mini-golf, pool and splash pad, etc. Kids are not bored here!" reports a regular visitor.
What campers like
Clean facilities at Mystic KOA: Located in North Stonington, about 15 miles northeast of New London, this campground receives praise for maintenance standards. "Cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen at a campground," writes one visitor, while another notes, "From the first interaction you see this KOA is customer focused. The staff is friendly, professional and helpful. The grounds are well maintained as are the facilities."
Wildlife viewing at Rocky Neck: The wooded areas between the campground and beach provide frequent wildlife sightings. "I've lived in CT all my life but never used the Rocky Neck State Park Campground until now. The campgrounds are named after water fowl: Crane, Egret, Osprey, Heron etc," explains one local camper.
Pool access at Crocker's Boatyard: This marina camping area offers a swimming pool, unusual for downtown locations. "Enjoyed the pool. Walked to Fort Trumbull," shares a visitor, while another camper mentions, "Bathrooms were clean and the pool amazing. Definitely going back!"
Level sites at Aces High RV Park: Campers appreciate the well-maintained gravel sites with large grassy areas. "Well organized campground with both water front back in sites as well as large pull throughs. Pull through sites also have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors," writes a satisfied guest.
Proximity to beaches and attractions: Many campgrounds provide shuttle service or walking paths to nearby beaches. "We were able to ride our bikes from your site to the playground, store, beach, local ice cream shop, coffee shop, or our family favorite, meig's point nature center," mentions a camper at Hammonasset State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds in the region close by late October. Rocky Neck State Park typically operates from Memorial Day weekend until late September, while some private campgrounds like Aces High RV Park remain open slightly longer into the fall season.
Campsite density varies widely: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "Strawberry Park provides a lot to do for kids and families. The pool is small and usually crowded, but still very well kept," notes one camper, adding that "the only drawback is the proximity to Interstate 95. You can hear the highway very well at night."
Limited hookup options at state parks: Many state park campgrounds have restricted utility access. "No electricity at the sites. Will try a cabin next time," mentions a Burlingame camper, while another notes, "Most sites don't have hook ups so you have to run off battery and water storage tanks if you have a RV."
Wildlife considerations at Rocky Neck State Park: Campers should secure food due to active wildlife. "Both spots were quiet, music low and people minded their business. Equal mix of RVs big and small as well as many tents," one camper reports, while others mention frequent sightings of skunks and raccoons around the campgrounds.
Reservation requirements: Advance booking is essential, especially for weekend stays between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Most campgrounds allow reservations up to 6 months in advance, with full payment often required at booking.
Variable cell service: Coverage can be spotty at wooded campgrounds. "The WiFi was horrible so we ended up using our Verizon hotspot," reports a camper at Mystic KOA, though campgrounds closer to New London typically have better connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Interactive activities at Odetah Camping Resort: Located 25 miles north of New London in Bozrah, this campground offers extensive family programming. "Each weekend has a big schedule of events- farmers' market, themed activities and a band. In addition there is good fishing on the pond, mini-golf, pool and splash pad, etc. Kids are not bored here!" shares a regular visitor.
Beach proximity considerations: Families with small children may prefer campgrounds with shorter walks to water access. "Beautiful Connecticut beach sits just steps away from your campsite. Well kept showers and bathrooms are abundant and the camp store has the majority of what you need," notes a Hammonasset visitor.
Evening entertainment options: Many campgrounds provide scheduled activities after dark. "From a massage at the Spa to a fun band by the lake, to Bingo night, mini-golf and awesome ice cream Sundaes... tennis & basketball games, immaculate bathrooms....every night we went to bed tired and looking forward to doing it all again the next day!!" describes an Odetah camper.
Playground accessibility: Families should consider distance between sites and play areas. "We stayed near the camp store and playground. Lots to do with kids including fishing, game room, and hiking," advises a Burlingame visitor, highlighting the convenience of strategically chosen sites.
Holiday weekend considerations: Major summer holidays bring larger crowds. "Avoid holiday weekends and the heat of August if you can. Be prepared for dirty restrooms and come armed with hand soap (they no longer provide any), paper towels, and Clorox wipes," recommends a Burlingame camper with practical advice.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Strawberry Park: Located in Preston, about 15 miles north of New London, this park offers various site types. "Easy check in right at front gate, didn't even have to get out of the truck. Was handed map and daily activity list," reports a satisfied RVer, adding "Site was wide and allowed me to easily back in. Near perfect level."
Utility considerations: Full hookup availability varies significantly between campgrounds. "Many pull-thru sites, maybe 20 back ins on a pond. Nice staff, nice pool & facilities. Also, this is open year round," notes an Aces High visitor, highlighting the rare year-round operation.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups at individual sites. "There are two dumping spots each with two dumps," mentions a Burlingame camper, providing useful information for planning longer stays.
Length restrictions: Larger RVs may face limitations at some campgrounds. "They have spaces for 10 sites and up (I would call to see if you can fit if you have a larger rig) very easy to get to write off I-95," advises a visitor to Niantic KOA.
Level site availability: RVers should research site conditions before booking. "Sites are a bit level some not, some dirt sites, some grassy, some with a ton of shade, some out in the open," details a Burlingame visitor, providing context for site selection preferences.
