Camping near Pomfret Center, Connecticut offers a mix of waterfront experiences and woodland settings across northeastern Connecticut's rural landscape. The region sits at approximately 600 feet elevation with rolling hills and multiple rivers providing natural boundaries between campgrounds. Camping seasons typically run from mid-April through mid-October, though some locations like Wilderness Lake Park extend their season through early December.
What to do
River recreation: At Charlie Brown Campground on the Natchaug River, tubing is especially popular. "My entire family enjoyed themselves so much, that we've already reserved a site for a few weeks from now. Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built-in entertainment for the kids!" shares Michael.
Hiking trails: Wells State Park Campground offers multiple trail options surrounding Walker Pond. "There is a nice beach for children. The water was warm and clean. You can kayak or canoe. The dogs cannot go on the beach, but they can go in the boats," notes Jessica W.
Disc golf: Wilderness Lake Park has recently added a disc golf course to their amenities. "There was a hiking trail on the property and the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property. Whether you have an RV, want to Car Glamp or looking to feel deep in the woods, this place checks all the boxes," reports Robert L.
Fishing access: Peppertree Camping sits directly on the Natchaug River, providing prime fishing spots. Gail M. notes, "It's situated on the Nachaug River, so it's a popular fishing site; we had more fun tubing down the river. The area is peaceful and has sites right on the river some and further away for tents and trailers."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites at West Thompson Lake Campground. "We've camped here twice so far and can't wait to be back. This campground is very small and quiet, but the lake and adjoining river offer hours of fun for small craft," explains Cynthia K.
Clean facilities: George Washington State Campground maintains exceptionally clean facilities. "Sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept, bathrooms were very clean with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins). Staff was friendly and helpful, with park rangers making regular rounds," reports Nick P.
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campsites in the region offer quiet settings away from urban noise. Jeremiah F. describes West Thompson Lake: "The sites were not very secluded from each other, but there were not a lot of other campers when we went so it wasn't a problem for us. They have bathrooms and showers close by that were in relatively decent shape."
Waterfront options: Multiple campgrounds offer sites directly on water. At Stateline Campresort & Cabins, "The sites are very well set up. You have your pick of shady sites or sites with no trees. Clean, wooded and open sites some overlook a large pond. Boat rentals, pool, game room available," notes Tony O.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require reservations, especially for summer weekends. At Brialee Family Campground, weekend slots fill quickly due to popularity. "Fairly large campground. Tent sites available but mostly RV/Campers. WiFi in common areas isn't great so if you're planning on working during some down time, this isn't the place," cautions Kailie G.
Campground gate policies: Some facilities have specific entry rules. At West Thompson Lake Campground, one reviewer notes they "close the gate to enter at 9pm," which affects late arrivals.
Swimming restrictions: Not all waterfront campsites allow swimming. Wells State Park has swimming available but one visitor mentioned, "I knocked a star because I think the swimming area could be bigger and raked."
Cash-only policies: Several campgrounds require cash payment. At Wilderness Lake Park, Hails L. advises: "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused sites: Wolf Den Campground — Mashamoquet Brook State Park offers multiple kid-friendly options. "Son and I stayed from Friday to Sunday. Easy to find the camp and the plot, well marked. Very nice sized lots. Large open areas for kids and adults to play during day and star gaze at night," reports a visitor named "175 P."
Scheduled programs: Brialee Family Campground organizes regular activities for children. "They make sure the weekends are for families," notes Linda L., while Michelle D. adds, "There were all kinds of activities (kick-ball, ect) that everyone could participate in, a great play ground, and easy to navigate."
Waterfront safety: Parents should note specific water restrictions at each location. At Wells State Park, Lauren C. explains, "Camp sites are clearly labeled and none are that far of a walk from the beach or bathrooms. There were lots of families camping when I last visited, and also a handful of dogs joining campers."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment. At Stateline Campresort & Cabins, facilities include "a big pool and pond to fish at," according to David P., making it ideal for families with varied interests.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: At Wells State Park, RVers should be selective about sites. One reviewer warned about Site #39: "Very un-level, with a steep, narrow driveway. Combined with the winding, tree-lined loop road, there was no way we were going to be able to back into that site in the dark."
Full hookup availability: Charlie Brown Campground offers partial hookups with limitations. Johnny W. notes: "Grey dump only due to river so no biggie. Staff was friendly and there was some stuff to do. Crafts for kids a band a wagon ride. Good place overall and great price."
Seasonal demographics: Dave B. observes that at Brialee Family Campground, "This is a large seasonal oriented campground. The staff was not well trained and or not oriented to short term campers. There was no WiFi service as advertised and cell service was poor."
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide dump stations rather than full sewer hookups. At Charlie Brown, one visitor mentions the availability of "water, electric, gray water hookup" at $63 per night, with a separate fee for pump-out services.
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