Camping options near Portland, Connecticut extend well beyond upscale glamping, with many campgrounds offering traditional tent sites, RV hookups, and various accommodation types. The area's moderate climate makes camping possible from mid-spring through fall, with summer highs averaging 80-85°F. Eastern Connecticut's unique geography places campers within short driving distance of both the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound.
What to do
Beach activities at state parks: Rocky Neck State Park Campground provides direct access to a beach area with swimming. "The campsite is only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails. A great family campsite with easy to get to activities," notes a visitor to Rocky Neck State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing in stocked lakes and ponds. At Wilderness Lake Park, one camper mentions, "The lake was quiet and we saw kids swimming in it in the morning." The park also provides "free kayaks/canoes for the lake" according to another reviewer.
Water recreation: Kayaking and canoeing are available at multiple locations. A visitor to Niantic KOA appreciated their "free shuttle rides to 3 beaches & downtown Niantic, CT," making water access convenient even without transportation.
Seasonal activities: Odetah Camping Resort hosts themed weekends throughout their season. "Each weekend has a big schedule of events- farmers' market, themed activities and a band," mentions one reviewer, providing structure for longer stays.
What campers like
Camping near attractions: Wolf's Den Family Campground offers proximity to several points of interest. "Nearby attractions are Gillette Castle and Goodspeed Opera. The campground itself is really nice. Cable TV at most sites," shares one camper, highlighting the balance of nature and entertainment.
Clean facilities: Bathhouse quality varies between campgrounds. At Lake Compounce Campground, a reviewer observed, "Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper." This attention to detail makes a significant difference in comfort.
Site privacy levels: Campgrounds offer varying degrees of seclusion. A visitor to Wilderness Lake Park explains, "The tent sites are nice and isolated, but not scary far apart," while at Riverdale Farm Campsites, campers appreciate that "the sites are large and level."
Recreational amenities: Brialee Family Campground provides numerous on-site activities. "Plenty of activities and things for kids to do; Rec hall, mini golf, shuffleboard, beach, pool, playground. Park is kept clean and tidy," states one visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Burlingame State Park Campground, rates differ based on residency status. "Price - dirt cheap if you are a RI resident, but pricey if you aren't," notes one camper.
Hookup limitations: Not all sites provide full hookups. At Rocky Neck State Park Campground, "No water or electric hookup. Wi-fi not available at this campground," according to a visitor. Check specifics when booking.
Bathroom considerations: Facility quality varies widely between locations. A Burlingame State Park visitor warns, "Bath houses - are usually pretty filthy, and that's because there are too many people per bath house." Bring supplies accordingly.
Payment policies: Some campgrounds have specific payment requirements. A visitor to Wilderness Lake Park mentions, "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared."
Seasonal changes: Most campgrounds operate May through October with peak season in July-August. A Niantic KOA camper noted, "In season, there are many activities to occupy families; however, we could not take advantage of most of these" during an off-season visit.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning for children: Riverdale Farm Campsites provides structured programming for younger visitors. "They had activities for the kids on weekends and holidays. They are close to local beaches and hiking trails," shares one family.
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming in lakes or pools. A Brialee Family Campground visitor explains, "Deep in the woods. Great variety of activities. Swimming lake, canoeing lake, pool, playgrounds. Choice of shade in trees or open field."
Kid-friendly amenities: Playground access is important for families with young children. At Wolf's Den Family Campground, visitors appreciate "mini golf, pool, tennis, basketball, volleyball, lots of playgrounds for the kids. Family oriented park."
Weekend considerations: Many campgrounds become significantly busier on weekends. A Burlingame State Park camper advises, "Do not come on a holiday weekend, it's packed" and "Noise / Parties / Drunks - again, too many sites means too many people and nowhere near enough park staff."
Tips from RVers
Site configurations: For larger vehicles, Lake Compounce Campground offers accommodating layouts. "Sites were large enough for RV. NO privacy, but tent sites were ok," notes one RVer. Another mentions, "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded."
Hookup specifics: Check power capabilities before booking. At Wolf's Den Family Campground, "Only electric 30 or 50A, and water; but there are a few dumpstations around in the camp," explains a reviewer who appreciated this detail.
Access considerations: Some older campgrounds have limitations for larger RVs. Wolf's Den Family Campground visitors note, "Really long or tall RV will need to stay close to the front of the campground, as typical older campground is not designed for 40 foot long or 10 foot high campers."
Pump-out services: Availability varies between locations. At Niantic KOA, "They do provide a honey wagon pump service, once, free of charge. They say you can request additional pumps for a fee, if necessary," explains one RVer, though availability depends on staffing.
