Tent camping near Oxford, Connecticut offers woodland sites within 30 miles of town across state and county parks. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 400-700 feet, creating moderate temperature drops at night even during summer months. Campers should prepare for seasonal restrictions, as many sites operate only from April through October with varying levels of facilities.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail networks: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation features over 40 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels. A camper noted, "This is a great place for camping. The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather. The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area."
Water activities: Croton Point Park provides swimming access with lifeguards on duty Wednesday through weekend. According to a visitor, "Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood. I would highly recommend it. Oh...and did i say, gorgeous scenery along the river and a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty!"
Historical exploration: Gillette Castle State Park Campground offers castle tours at scheduled times alongside riverside camping. As one camper shared, "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."
What campers like
Shelter options: Mountain Lakes Park provides lean-tos scattered throughout the property. A visitor mentioned, "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it. No facilities that I can think of, but there are a few lean-to's scattered off the looping road."
Seasonal flexibility: Some locations accommodate year-round camping needs. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, a regular visitor explained, "Ive been coming here for years. They have great sights and are open all year round. Ive stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping."
Privacy levels: Campsites range from secluded to more communal settings. At Onion Mountain Park, a camper reported, "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis. Other posts claim you can park right the site, but you can not. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Several campgrounds require in-person booking. For Croton Point Park, one camper advised, "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in to find out your site."
Wildlife considerations: Some areas have active wildlife. At Croton Point Park, a visitor warned, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Facility limitations: Chapman Pond Preserve offers basic amenities. A camper described it as having "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view." Most primitive sites in the area lack running water, requiring campers to pack in their supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible playgrounds: Croton Point Park offers family-friendly facilities. A camper shared, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
Educational opportunities: Mountain Lakes Park provides learning experiences alongside camping. One visitor explained, "A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in. The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes."
Quiet sites for beginners: Hidden Lake Farm offers a peaceful introduction to camping. The property maintains "2 lodging options to choose from. Pets welcome!" making it suitable for families wanting a more controlled first camping experience with pets included.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds near Oxford have minimal RV infrastructure. Croton Point Park offers some RV sites with "a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites." The full-hookup sites are "back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Level site availability: Site conditions vary across campgrounds. At Croton Point Park, a camper found "a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level."
Proximity considerations: Train noise affects some campgrounds. One RVer at Croton Point Park warned, "There is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night."
