Tent campsites near Plymouth, Connecticut include both primitive and established sites within Connecticut's western highlands region. Most locations sit at elevations between 700-1,500 feet where summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night. Fall camping season typically extends through mid-October when overnight temperatures can drop to 40°F, requiring appropriate sleeping gear and layered clothing.
What to do
Trail exploration: Hikers camping at Riga Lean-To can access the Bear Mountain summit within a mile of the shelter. "Make sure to hit the summit of Bear Mountain; incredible view!" notes one camper who stayed at the lean-to.
Stargazing opportunities: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation features open fields ideal for night sky viewing. One visitor mentioned, "There's elevation gain, creeks, and open fields for stargazing. You have the options of a lean to here."
Nature education: Visit the Trailside Nature Museum at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation while camping. A reviewer explained, "The Trailside Nature Museum is also fun for the kids" and provides educational context about local wildlife and ecosystems.
Bike riding: Several campgrounds offer paved paths suitable for family cycling. "There is wide open space and the paths are well paved so kids can have fun riding the bikes or running around," notes a camper about the trails at Ward Pound Ridge.
What campers like
Lean-to options: Shelters at Brassie Brook Shelter provide protection from weather. "The lean-to fit our small tents, and there is a picnic table. There's also a bear box near by," reports one backpacker who appreciated these amenities during rainy conditions.
Quiet atmosphere: Windmill Hill at White Memorial Campground delivers a peaceful experience away from crowds. A camper staying at site 5 noted: "Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean."
Site variety: Campgrounds in the region offer different configurations to suit various needs. At Ward Pound Ridge, "The camping sites are very different so it's useful to go in person and select the area," explains one visitor who appreciated being able to choose specific sites.
Proximity to trails: Most camping locations provide direct access to hiking paths. A visitor to Ward Pound Ridge noted, "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking, particularly in summer. For Ward Pound Ridge, "The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be."
Appalachian Trail etiquette: When camping at Ten Mile River Shelter, remember these sites primarily serve through-hikers. A reviewer cautions: "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."
Site access: Many tent sites require walking from parking areas. At Onion Mountain Park, "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. However, it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."
Distance to supplies: Plan ahead as stores may not be nearby. One camper at Ward Pound Ridge noted, "Stores are not near by and had to drive into Bedford to grab food items and camping necessities!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose beginner-friendly sites: Some locations work better for first-time campers. "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," shares a Scout leader about Onion Mountain Park.
Pack appropriate gear: Tent size matters at primitive sites. A visitor to Onion Mountain Park warns: "The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent (no group sites) but has a firepit already set up."
Check bathroom facilities: Campground restrooms vary significantly. At River Highlands State Park, be prepared for rustic conditions: "As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Consider wildlife precautions: While not all sites require bear precautions, some do. An Onion Mountain Park camper notes: "We did put a bear bag about 100 feet away" while another mentions "no need for a bear bag" at different sites in the same park.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most camping near Plymouth accommodates tents only, with limited RV options. At Sodom Mountain Campground, improvements are ongoing: "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back."
Road conditions: Access to primitive camping can be challenging for larger vehicles. One reviewer mentions that at Sodom Mountain Campground, previously "all roads are dirt" but notes recent improvements to repair potholes, making access easier.
