Glamping options near Redding, Connecticut, range from rustic yurts to safari-style cabins within an hour's drive. The area sits in the southern New England highlands at elevations between 400-800 feet, creating a moderate climate with four distinct seasons. Fall temperatures typically range from 45-65°F, making it prime camping season with reduced humidity and colorful foliage.
What to do
Hiking trails from campsites: At Mountain Lakes Park, several trails lead directly from camping areas to viewpoints. "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," notes reviewer Ben H.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Lake Waramaug State Park Campground offers rentals for water activities right on the lake. "Great for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoes and for fishing. Bring your own gear but kayak and canoe rentals are available," according to reviewer G Y.
Amusement park access: Lake Compounce Campground provides direct access to the amusement park. "Easy entry, long pull thrus. This is attached to an amusement park but far enough away not to be a bother," writes reviewer Diane R.
What campers like
Large, private sites: Many campgrounds offer spacious sites even in popular areas. At Riverdale Farm Campsites, "The lake is perfect, the river needs work. But this is an awesome small campground. The kids who work here are so friendly and the playground is nice," according to Nick H.
Clean bathroom facilities: Wildwood State Park Campground maintains well-kept facilities. "Among the most modern bathrooms I've seen at a State Park campground. Nice clean campground with the usual NY State Park quality," reports Amber A.
Family-oriented activities: Organized events are common at many sites. "We had an enjoyable stay at Lone Oak. The facilities were very clean and they had a well organized group of employees. We did an interesting tour of the neighboring farm where they make cow pots," writes Jean T.
What you should know
Military-only access: Some camping areas have restricted access. At West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area, "We've been coming here for at least 13 years. We love that its a place specifically for Vets and active Military. Everyone is amazingly respectful of each other," explains a reviewer.
Seasonal availability: Most glamping sites operate between April and October. "The swim area is marginal - best for little ones. This park is remote from all conveniences - pack it in or expect a drive," notes G Y. about Lake Waramaug.
Varying amenities: Some sites lack fire rings or full hookups. "The only reason I gave 4 stars is because the campsites don't come with a fire ring. Not sure if this is because of maintenance, but it just wasn't super apparent until we got there," mentions reviewer Maxime T.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water options: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers accessible water activities. "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time," reports Amanda S.
Playground accessibility: Check proximity to play areas when booking. "It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity," says Jennifer I. about Jellystone, while another campground offers "a playground, game room, 'adult' lounge, a laundry, a swimming pond, and river access for fishing."
Weekend crowds: Many sites become crowded during weekends and holidays. "I would never camp here on a weekend.... it is a party place then. Truly, it's a lovely place but I'm not sure that you couldn't find better," advises katrina M. about Lake Waramaug.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site availability: Several campgrounds offer convenient access. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," notes Lori R. about Wildwood State Park.
Dump station locations: Not all sites offer sewer hookups. "Good for an overnight stop on our way south. We couldn't find much else along our route, but this wasn't too bad. The sites were long so even though you face your neighbor, the sites were long enough that our door wasn't directly across from our neighbor. None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out," explains Tina about Lake Compounce.
Electric requirements: Double-check power specifications before booking. "Be careful on the map for what site has what amenities, and make sure to double check power requirements because it's not labeled on the sites and it varies," advises Natalie N.
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