Tent sites near Rocky Hill, Connecticut offer primitive camping experiences along the Connecticut River and in surrounding woodland areas. The region features a mix of riverside locations, mountain settings, and island camping accessible only by water. Most locations operate seasonally from spring through fall, with some sites closing during winter months due to weather conditions and limited accessibility.
What to do
Water activities: Selden Neck State Park Campground provides a unique island camping experience accessed by kayak or boat. A camper reports, "It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island. If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags." The island features small beaches that emerge during low tide.
Hiking trails: Brassie Brook Shelter offers access to the Appalachian Trail with opportunities for summit views. A visitor noted, "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."
Nature exploration: Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground provides wooded campsites with trail access. A recent camper shared, "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trails. Wonderful place to camp."
What campers like
Riverside views: Gillette Castle State Park Campground offers waterfront camping with Connecticut River vistas. A visitor commented, "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. It is amazing with the views of the CT River and being able to watch the sunrise and sunset."
Privacy: Hidden Lake Farm provides small, secluded tent sites. With only five sites total, campers enjoy ample space between neighbors. A reviewer noted the campground offers "Quiet and Private" accommodations with pet-friendly options.
Scout-friendly terrain: Onion Mountain Park serves as a training ground for beginners. A scout leader mentioned, "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, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it."
What you should know
Access requirements: Reaching some campsites requires specific transportation or hiking ability. At Selden Neck State Park, "You have to kayak or boat in. There's a boat launch across from the island on the west side of the river at Deep River Landing where you can leave your car."
Limited facilities: Most tent sites have minimal amenities. At Chapman Pond Preserve, a camper noted, "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view." Prepare to bring essential supplies including water and toilet paper.
Wildlife considerations: Natural settings mean wildlife encounters. At River Highlands State Park, a day visitor warned, "As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)." Brassie Brook campers noted bear boxes available for food storage.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Onion Mountain Park accommodates first-time campers with relatively easy access. "It's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite," according to a recent visitor, making it manageable for children carrying gear.
Short hikes: For families with younger children, choose sites with minimal walking distance. At Sodom Mountain Campground, recent improvements have made the grounds more family-friendly. A camper noted, "Great Wi-Fi now, store has been redone and grands are much nicer. I am told they are adding a modern bathhouse by the pool and enlarging the pool area."
Weather preparation: Connecticut camping conditions can change rapidly. On Brassie Brook, a camper shared, "Our trip was sadly cut short because we were freezing and it was raining a lot LOL but hey it's part of the experience." Pack additional layers and rain gear, even during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas near Rocky Hill offer no hookups for RVs. River Highlands State Park River Campground does provide some electric hookups (30/50 amp) but lacks drinking water connections, requiring self-sufficiency.
Road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds vary in quality. At Sodom Mountain Campground, a visitor noted improvements: "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired." Check recent reviews for current road conditions before bringing larger vehicles.
Site spacing considerations: RV campers should research site dimensions before booking. Most campgrounds in the area primarily accommodate tents with limited space for larger vehicles, particularly at primitive sites located along hiking trails or waterways.
