Best Campgrounds near Plainville, CT

Campgrounds near Plainville, Connecticut include both private and state-operated facilities offering varied accommodations. Within a 30-mile radius, campers can find Lake Compounce Campground in Bristol, Black Rock State Park Campground in Watertown, and Gentiles Campground in Plymouth. These established sites accommodate tent camping, RV parking, and cabin rentals, with many facilities offering electric hookups and water access. Several locations, including Bear Creek at Lake Compounce, provide glamping options such as yurts and tepees alongside traditional campsites.

The camping season in central Connecticut generally runs from April through October, with most facilities closing for winter. State parks like Black Rock operate on a May to September schedule, while some private campgrounds such as Gentiles remain open year-round. Facilities vary significantly by location, with state parks offering more natural settings but fewer amenities. Most campgrounds require reservations, particularly on summer weekends and holidays. Visitors should expect varying levels of site privacy, as noted by one camper who remarked, "The tent spots are small and close together. Also there is only one set of facilities for the whole place. It's quite a walk to the bathrooms."

Campers frequently mention the convenience of several campgrounds to nearby attractions. Lake Compounce Campground provides direct access to the adjacent amusement park, making it popular for families with children. "This is part of the Lake Compounce Amusement Park. Stayed in September 2021. Campground is pretty empty during the week and gets busy during the weekend," noted one visitor. Many campgrounds feature recreational amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and sport courts. Water access varies by location, with some sites situated along rivers or lakes. Bathroom facilities generally receive positive reviews for cleanliness, particularly at newer establishments, though availability and proximity to campsites can be inconsistent across different properties. Cell service and Wi-Fi quality fluctuate throughout the region, with private campgrounds typically offering more reliable connectivity than state parks.

Best Camping Sites Near Plainville, Connecticut (128)

    1. Lake Compounce Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bristol, CT
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 583-3300

    "Affiliated with Lake Compounce Amusement Park adjacent to campground."

    "It is adjacent to an amusement park so there were lots of families here. None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out."

    2. Gentiles Campground

    7 Reviews
    Plymouth, CT
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 283-8437

    $55 - $150 / night

    "Quiet CG near Waterbury CT. Close to major stores for resupply. CG has lots of friendly seasonal campers and lots of other sites."

    "There’s two brand new bathrooms on site one of which is conveniently located right by the pool. Owners are doing new renovations to make this place look good!"

    3. Black Rock State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Thomaston, CT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 283-8088

    $17 - $50 / night

    "Beautiful state park, very clean .. fishing, lake swimming, hiking trails. Bathrooms, free showers .. stores within a 5 minute drive. Most of the camp ground site are not secluded .."

    "The family next to me offered me dinner one night after I spent the whole day working on my RV. Spanish rice chicken the works the plate could barely hold it all."

    4. Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    13 Reviews
    Riverton, CT
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0922

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We were passing through Connecticut and needed a place to crash. Loved this campsite! Very chilled and secluded in your own site. I liked that it felt like a litrle community but still quotr private."

    "Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots. Definitely need to come back. Great rates on all sites."

    5. Onion Mountain Park

    3 Reviews
    West Simsbury, CT
    13 miles
    Website

    "We arrived at the parking lot of Onion Mountain Park at around 2 pm and proceeded to get our bags packed for the hike."

    "It’s up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take. However, it’s not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."

    6. White Pines Campsites

    11 Reviews
    Winsted, CT
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0124

    $74 / night

    "However one issue was the garbage situation. Had to walk a long distance to throw out the trash."

    "We got a tent spot and it was perfect since it was the furthest one away and there was no one near us which is probably why we loved it so much bc we were so isolated. a little disappointed in the site"

    7. Cozy Hills Campground

    9 Reviews
    Bantam, CT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 567-2119

    $72 - $122 / night

    "While this might be fine for some dogs, I have 2 young border collies that will jump that fence like it is not even there."

    "We stayed near the water. Clean private bathrooms were a plus. Clean pool but only 3 feet deep."

    8. Branch Brook Campground

    2 Reviews
    Thomaston, CT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 283-8144

    "Sites are pretty close together and the campground is close to a fairly busy road. The pool and laundry areas were clean and seemed newer."

    9. River Highlands State Park River Campground

    1 Review
    Cromwell, CT
    12 miles
    +1 (203) 287-5658

    $5 / night

    "We only visited for the day and left around dawn, but the campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river."

    10. Hammonasset State Park Campground

    39 Reviews
    Clinton, CT
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (203) 245-1817

    $20 - $70 / night

    "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."

    "I had a hankering for East Coast seafood, so I picked Hammonesett Beach State Park for Connecticut. Our 2nd state of 5.

        Hammonesett Beach has a huge campground."

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Recent Reviews near Plainville, CT

568 Reviews of 128 Plainville Campgrounds


  • Sue B.
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    Great State Forest Campground

    Austin Hawes (also known as American Legion State Forest/Campground) is a great little place in a beautiful part of the State. They have cabins if you want some of the creature comforts, as well as sites suitable for tents or campers. Have camped here before in tents and a pop up, it's right on the Farmington River, so we have gone tubing down the river, swimming and fishing as well. The bathrooms have showers and flush toilets, there are hiking trails in and near the campground, and stores not too far. Sites vary in size and privacy.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Black Rock State Park Campground

    Nah

    If you want to feel like you are camping in the middle of a lawless low income housing project, this is the place for you. We camped next to a woman with 2 pit bulls, which was surprising, given the "no dogs allowed" rule, and were surrounded by people partying despite the "no alcohol" rule. Teens congregate in the bathroom so they could charge their devices but did not appreciate you being there to use the bathroom they clearly took over, and even though it's 2025, I still prefer no boyfriends hanging out in the women's bathroom. Call me whatever. Used to camp here years ago, clearly it has gone downhill. Park Ranger? What's that?

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Ten Mile River Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Not a public campground!

    Ten Mile River Shelter and campsite is not a public campground. Sure, anyone can camp there, but it is designated for folks hiking the A.T., whether thru-hikers, section hikers, or whatever. While there are no rules about who can camp there, during thru-hiking season, consideration should be made for folks who rely on places like this during a long distance hike. It is at least a mile if not a mile and a half from approved parking (on the side of the road off the A.T.) to camp, either from the A.T. or a combo of the A.T. and a blue blaze trail (which is easier, imo). There are also no fires allowed on the CT A.T.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Crocker's Boatyard

    Great spot and good communication

    Was in town for the Elvis show. This was minutes from downtown definitely walkable. Will be back again!

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    Convenient pit stop

    This spot is easy to find and access, and had decent ATT service. There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Point Folly Campground

    Great

    I’ve been coming here for decades. Little store has what you need if you can find the shop keeper. Great access to bantam lake. You can leave you canoes/kayaks tied up in the water. Great fishing. Love it overall. The only issue I have is the pit toilets are brutal. If you are tent camping, beware!

  • Christine S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Cozy Hills Campground

    Quiet and clean

    So far it's been pretty quiet but we are here at the beginning of October on a Monday. Nice area.

  • S
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Sylvan Lake Beach Park

    Great Beach Lake for summer swimming and Boating

    This is an old campground, but is quite quaint. Reminds me of lake camping that I grew up with. Hosts are very nice and helpful. This is more of a seasonal camping site. Do not follow your GPS directions. Get directions from the campground staff.


Guide to Plainville

Camping near Plainville, Connecticut, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From family-friendly campgrounds to serene spots for RVers, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Hammonasset State Park Campground, are just a short walk or drive from the beach. Campers can enjoy swimming and sunbathing without any extra fees. One visitor mentioned, "The beach was popular... a stream running from a pond that kids were playing in."
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the beautiful trails at Clarence Fahnestock State Park. A reviewer noted, "The NYS Parks has done a lot of work on the surrounding trails... Fishkill."
  • Fishing and Snorkeling: At George Washington State Campground, you can enjoy fishing and even snorkeling. One camper shared, "Had a great time, did some snorkeling & fishing!"

What campers like:

  • Family Activities: Campgrounds like Brialee Family Campground are packed with activities for kids. A happy camper said, "The activities were great and kept my grandchildren busy."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate clean restrooms and showers. A visitor at George Washington State Campground remarked, "Sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept, bathrooms were very clean with hot showers."
  • Scenic Views: Campers enjoy the natural beauty surrounding places like Rocky Neck State Park Campground. One reviewer stated, "The campground is about a 20 min. walk and 5 min. drive to the beach."

What you should know:

  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots like Hammonasset State Park Campground fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper advised, "If you are looking for a site it’s best to book far in advance."
  • No Pets Allowed: Some campgrounds, such as Rocky Neck State Park Campground, do not allow pets. A visitor noted, "NO pets allowed."
  • Noise Levels: Campers should be prepared for some noise, especially at busier campgrounds. One camper at Wells State Park Campground mentioned, "The highway is very loud (I-90 is across the lake)."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Brialee Family Campground that offer playgrounds and activities. A camper said, "The sand beach is great for the kids and there is always something going on."
  • Pack for Activities: Bring along gear for swimming, fishing, or hiking. One family enjoyed their stay at Wildwood State Park Campground and said, "The beach is in walking distance. You can swim or fish there."
  • Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have limited food options, so plan meals ahead. A visitor at George Washington State Campground mentioned, "The camp store has a small variety of camp supplies, drinks and food."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Clarence Fahnestock State Park noted, "Careful which site you choose."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Mystic KOA offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. One camper shared, "The hookups worked fine with 50-amp electric and decent water pressure."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have narrow roads and tight turns. A visitor at Wells State Park Campground mentioned, "The driveway to site 38 was a mess. Tree limbs and brush invaded the drive."

Camping around Plainville, CT, has its perks and quirks. Whether you're looking for family fun or a peaceful retreat, there’s a campground that fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any photo galleries available for Gentiles Campground in Plainville?

Yes, photo galleries for Gentiles Campground are available on The Dyrt's campground page. These photos showcase the campground's facilities, including water access and toilet facilities. For additional camping options with extensive photo documentation, consider Lake Compounce Campground near Bristol, which offers drive-in access, reservable sites, and amenities like water and toilets. Their photo galleries provide good visual references for camping conditions in the Plainville area.

What parks in Plainville, CT allow camping?

Plainville itself has limited camping options within town limits. However, nearby state parks like Black Rock State Park Campground and Hopeville Pond State Park Campground offer camping facilities within a reasonable drive. Hopeville Pond provides swimming, fishing, hiking and picnicking opportunities, with sites suitable for both tents and RVs. The park is family-friendly with activities for children, though be aware of the curious chipmunks that might raid unattended food.

Where are the best campgrounds in Plainville, CT?

While there aren't campgrounds directly in Plainville, several excellent options exist within driving distance. Wolf's Den Family Campground offers convenient access to attractions like Gillette Castle and Goodspeed Opera House. It's located east of the Connecticut River with easy highway access via Route 9. For those seeking a more natural setting, Wilderness Lake Park is a hidden gem with secluded tent sites despite being primarily an RV campground. Both offer well-maintained facilities and make excellent base camps for exploring the Plainville region.