Tent camping options near Riverton, Connecticut range from primitive sites to lean-to shelters along the Appalachian Trail corridor. Elevations in the region vary from 400 feet along river valleys to over 2,300 feet at Bear Mountain, creating significant temperature variations between campsites. Most backcountry locations require carrying all necessary supplies, including water filtration equipment.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: At Onion Mountain Park, several primitive sites provide excellent wildlife viewing. "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," notes Marshall S., highlighting its beginner-friendly terrain.
Hiking to summit views: The Laurel Ridge campsite requires a challenging hike but rewards with panoramic vistas. "It's quite a hike to get to this dispersed campground, so be prepared! We packed on our backpacks early in the morning and arrived there mid-afternoon," advises Nora S.
Trail segment exploration: From Brassie Brook Shelter, campers can access multiple trail segments through diverse ecosystems. "We started our hike at the under-mountain trailhead, located right off route 41, and climbed up the mountain. Be prepared for steep inclines, and lots of rocks," explains Nora S.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The Alander Trail Campground offers exceptional seclusion for each site. "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots. Once you get there, theres quite a few sites to choose from and each offer quite a bit or privacy," reports Kay D.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the maintenance at primitive sites. At Alander Trail Campground, one visitor noted, "Although we were the only campers at the time the area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere! The outhouse was even clean!"
Train proximity: For a unique experience, the Chester Railway Station offers camping with passing trains. "It is a really fun place to spend a night, especially for a train enthusiast. The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. You hear the trains running at night," shares Esther L.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Most backcountry sites require proper food storage. At Alander Trail Campground, "They give you a semi-flat area for a tent, a fire pit and grill rack, one picnic table, and a bear box you would be sharing with other campers nearby," notes Kay D.
Hike-in requirements: Many of the best tent camping near Riverton, Connecticut require physical exertion. At Windmill Hill in White Memorial Campground, Sara R. describes, "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean."
Fire restrictions: Several high-elevation sites prohibit fires year-round. At Laurel Ridge, one camper noted, "No fires allowed, however," despite the cooler temperatures experienced at higher elevations.
Tips for camping with families
Starter campground selection: Choose sites with shorter access trails for first-time family camping. "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis," shares Ricky H. about Onion Mountain Park, adding, "it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."
Bug preparation: Pack appropriate repellent as insects are prevalent. At River Highlands State Park, Alicia B. warns, "As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Bear box usage: Teach children proper food storage protocols at sites with bear boxes. "We did have some scares with coyotes and bears in the past but never anything crazy," notes one Alander Trail camper, emphasizing the importance of using provided bear boxes.
Tips from RVers
Access road limitations: Most primitive tent camping areas near Riverton have restricted vehicle access, making them unsuitable for RVs. At Onion Mountain Park, Nora S. advises, "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night. The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent."
Alternative accommodations: RV campers seeking primitive experiences can find options at Sodom Mountain Campground, where recent improvements have enhanced the experience. "This campground has improved with the new owners as of 2021... All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired," reports Brad N.
Site navigation challenges: Many campers recommend downloading offline maps as cellular service is inconsistent throughout the region. "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," clarifies Ricky H. about Onion Mountain Park.
