The Riverton area sits along the Farmington River at approximately 600 feet elevation, with surrounding hills rising to 1,500 feet. Camping options range from basic tent sites to luxury glamping accommodations, with most campgrounds open from mid-April through mid-October when temperatures typically range from 45°F to 80°F. The region's varied terrain creates diverse camping environments from riverside flats to wooded hills.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: At White Pines Campsites in Barkhamsted, you'll find "Hiking trails were nice, good variety of easier and more difficult terrain" according to Becca Z. The campground connects to multiple paths suitable for different ability levels.
Water recreation opportunities: Lake Compounce Campground offers nearby swimming at their amusement park, though campers note "Would have been nice if they had a place to swim (in the camping area) besides for at the main park" as Danny A. points out. For fishing enthusiasts, Michelle D. mentions that White Pines has "a pond for fishing."
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse wildlife including bears. Laura W. from White Pines Campsites notes "We would visit again though, we loved all the parks and hiking in the area and we left the camp for the day Saturday to hike in the area." At Lake Compounce, one camper reports "Coyotes bears oh my... I hear coyotes. Won't be surprised if I see a bear in the morning."
What campers like
Privacy in wilderness settings: Tent campers particularly enjoy secluded sites at Wilderness Lake Park. Kailie G. shares, "Quaint little campground. Not many tenting sites but along a beautiful lake. Pets allowed... This campground was perfect for us and our dog."
Clean facilities: Prospect Mountain Campground earns praise for maintenance, with Megin F. reporting, "The grounds were absolutely beautiful and very well maintained! Pool was lovely and refreshing." Similarly, at Lake Taghkanic State Park, Seth K. appreciates that "The bathrooms and showers are clean and the water stayed hot."
Group camping options: Yoni N. from White Pines notes, "We camped here with a group of friends - about a dozen in all. It was easy to coordinate with the staff to get a few tent sites and a cabin in close distance." This flexibility makes the area suitable for reunions or multi-family outings.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At Lake Taghkanic State Park, Kurt S. warns about specific sites: "beware of site G006. The grill at the fire pit is upside down, so it doesn't hold level above the fire. Impossible to use."
Seasonal crowds: Weekends draw significantly more visitors than weekdays. Faith B. at October Mountain State Forest notes, "This campground is at the base of October mountain. The sites are varied from grassy meadows by the entrance to wooded canopys uphill." For those seeking quiet, mid-week bookings are recommended.
Payment requirements: Some campgrounds have specific payment policies. At Wilderness Lake Park, Hails L. advises, "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared." Always check payment options before arriving.
Wildlife precautions: Proper food storage is essential. One camper at Wilderness Lake Park mentions, "Tent sites are nice and isolated, but not scary far apart. Lots of wildlife so keep your food sealed..."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Lone Oak Camp Sites offers extensive children's programming. Amanda D. shares, "Family oriented with a great hiking trail. There's a full bar with adult only dancing up stairs in the lounge Saturday nights, and a DJ playing dance music for the younger crowed down stairs."
Swimming options for children: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities with varying features. At Lake Taghkanic, campers report "Big and spacious state park with many camping options... Big lake with swimming and boating as well as many hiking trails."
Activity variety: Prospect Mountain Campground provides diverse entertainment. Sandra S. explains, "Prospects mountain is a great campground for families with younger kids. They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing."
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities when booking with children. At Wilderness Lake Park, Lilia W. notes, "At the time there was only one port-a-potty for the tent area we were in and no water source."
Tips for RVers
Site layout considerations: RV sites at October Mountain State Forest have specific terrain features. As one camper notes, "The campground has 3 sections, located on different tiers of a hill. The lower level has RV sites, middle has tent sites, and upper has a few yurts."
Hookup limitations: Check utility options when booking. At Lake Compounce Campground, Ray B. points out, "Very well maintained and friendly staff will stay again when in the area. Does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station."
Site spacing: Privacy between RV sites varies significantly between campgrounds. Diane R. at Lake Compounce observes, "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded."
Seasonal availability: For luxury glamping in Riverton, Connecticut area, most campgrounds operate seasonally. John M. at Prospect Mountain Campground mentions, "We did a three month seasonal Site. Staff is super nice and helpful. We had a nice quite spot even though we where in the road to the lake."
