Best Campgrounds near Salisbury, CT

Camping options near Salisbury, Connecticut range from developed campgrounds to more rustic accommodations across state forests and parks in the tri-state region. Lone Oak Camp Sites in East Canaan provides tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals from April through October. Other nearby options include Macedonia Brook State Park Campground in Kent and several campgrounds in Taconic State Park across the New York border. The region features a mix of drive-in sites with amenities and more remote hike-in options along the Appalachian Trail corridor.

Seasonal considerations significantly influence camping experiences, with most developed campgrounds operating from May through October. Macedonia Brook State Park operates from late May through early September, while Lone Oak extends slightly longer into the fall season. According to one visitor, "Most sites are spacious and private but we felt very close to campers next to us, not a lot of shrubbery between sites to feel somewhat private." Winter camping is limited, with many facilities closing due to freezing temperatures and snow. Advance reservations are recommended, especially for summer weekends when waterfront sites fill quickly. Many campgrounds provide electric hookups, showers, and water access, though amenities vary significantly between established campgrounds and more primitive sites.

The Taconic Mountains and surrounding forests create diverse camping experiences with varied terrain. Campers report high satisfaction with locations near water features, with one review noting that "site 11 right next to the stream" was particularly appealing. Most campgrounds in the area offer access to hiking trails, including connections to the Appalachian Trail system that runs through the region. Sites in state forests tend to be more rustic with basic amenities, while private campgrounds like Lone Oak offer additional facilities including swimming pools and organized activities. Bear activity has been reported in the region, particularly in the more remote camping areas, requiring proper food storage practices. Cell service varies considerably throughout the area, with limited coverage in many of the more secluded camping locations.

Best Camping Sites Near Salisbury, Connecticut (149)

    1. Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park

    20 Reviews
    Copake Falls, NY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 329-3993

    $21 - $175 / night

    "I'm use to the rough and tough it of backpacking the AT Trail so this place had quite a few amenities I am not use to! Haha."

    "It wasn't too busy when we went- we got there on a Friday night around 6pm and were able to get a spot. There are also some fun activities within the campground, and things nearby."

    2. Lone Oak Camp Sites

    12 Reviews
    Norfolk, CT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 422-2267

    "Tons of kids activities to keep the little ones busy and great hikes around! Tons of waterfalls in the area and the highest point in Connecticut."

    "I happened upon Lone Oaks Camp Site when looking for someplace to stay in north eastern Connecticut."

    3. Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park

    4 Reviews
    Millerton, NY
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 789-3059

    $21 - $24 / night

    "This is a really interesting campground that's situated on a hill overlooking Rudd Pond in Taconic State Park. "

    "Wonderful hiking trails. Pond for fishing & swimming. Kiddie pond, children’s playground, Deli across the street is poorly managed but OK for a sandwich. Beautiful surrounding countryside."

    4. Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Ancramdale, NY
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 851-3631

    $21 - $195 / night

    "The campground has a lake with boat rentals. Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low."

    "We decided on Lake Taghkanic. Lake Taghkanic State Park was not a long drive from NYC, maybe 2 hours. The campsite was very clean and maintained."

    5. Brassie Brook Shelter - Bear Mountain — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    2 Reviews
    Taconic, CT
    4 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "There's also a bear box near by. Room to camp your tent on the ground too if you wanted to or had more ppl along."

    6. Alander Trail Camground — Mount Washington State Forest

    3 Reviews
    Mount Washington, MA
    7 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "Each spot is easy to find off the trail. They also have bear boxes at each site!"

    7. Laurel Ridge — Mount Everett State Reservation

    2 Reviews
    Taconic, MA
    5 miles

    "No matter where you start, you'll be hiking on some of the steepest parts of the Appalachian Trail in the northwestern Connecticut and southwestern Massachusetts."

    8. Macedonia Brook State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Kent, CT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 927-3238

    $14 / night

    "teaching scouts of all ages how to take and prepare for the wilderness survival badges place is clean it has running water has a porta potty and festival you don't have to worry because the state of Connecticut"

    "Our camp spot was right above the river the flows behind this spot. You can go sit down by the water. But be careful!"

    9. Copake Camping Resort

    5 Reviews
    Copake Falls, NY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 329-2811

    $79 - $229 / night

    "We have plans to return with friends due to the proximity to home and easy access to local things to do."

    10. Riga Lean-To

    1 Review
    Taconic, CT
    3 miles
    Website

    "We absolutely loved this little lean-to next to Bear Mountain. I'll make this review short, as we also stayed at the Brassie Brook lean-to which is located only about a mile apart from each other."

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Recent Reviews near Salisbury, CT

660 Reviews of 149 Salisbury Campgrounds


  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Gentiles Campground

    Nice place to stay

    Quiet CG near Waterbury CT. Close to major stores for resupply. CG has lots of friendly seasonal campers and lots of other sites. Most sites seem pretty level, but there are some steep roads in the CG. There is an airport next to CG, but it is for single engine private planes only so not a problem. Not by a major road so little traffic noise. I would stay here again.

  • Nicole G.
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Tolland State Forest Campground

    Great Lakeside Campground

    This was only my second camping trip ever (and first tent camping) so grain of salt here - We had a great time at Tolland. The site was spacious and equipped with a bear box, fire ring, and picnic table. The ground at the site was large gravel which was not great in the tent, but walking around it looks like most sites are more dirt and pine needles.

    The swimming area is small but sandy, great for kids, and my daughter loved thethe campfire and nature talk given on Saturday night by park staff.

  • Mike W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Cozy Hills Campground

    First time here

    Nice facility, friendly staff. They pack us in pretty tight in some sites.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2025

    Mt. Greylock Campsite Park

    Great Little Campground in the Berkshires

    The owner of this campground really cares about her job and making sure each and every camper has a great experience. I have a very large tent but was able to fit it on my site. The site was slightly slanted but that did help with drainage when we had torrential downpours the last 24 hours we were there. There seems to be a lot of seasonal campers but they were so friendly. The bathhouse was incredibly clean. Showers were great. The pool was cold, but really nice and again very clean. I loved that they deliver firewood to your site when you purchase from them. And again, I can’t say enough about the owner. She welcomed me with open arms when I arrived and I can tell she takes a lot of pride in her job and in her campground. I do hope to return again.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2025

    Pittsfield State Forest Campground

    A lovely park and campground

    July 2025. We stayed in site #36.  It had plenty of room for our 4 person tent, kitchen tent and car.  The ground was all gravel to took some time to remove the bigger ones from under the tent.  The sites were close to each other but enough vegetation around to have a little privacy.  The bath house was great.  Four private shower rooms (2 for men, 2 for women).  They also had outdoor showers and a dish washing station.  There was also an information area.   Staff cleaned daily.  There were many hiking trails.  The loop took us to the top where there was a beautiful view.  We will be coming back.

  • Alicia B.
    Jul. 27, 2025

    River Highlands State Park River Campground

    Beautiful But Beware of Arachnids

    We only visited for the day and left around dawn, but the campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river. As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this). Otherwise, it’s a peaceful and scenic spot worth seeing!

  • B
    Jul. 21, 2025

    Foothills

    Nice place

    Foothills is a great choice for families or groups of friends who want to immerse themselves in nature with many gentle amenities and relaxing spaces.

  • Elizabeth M.
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Jellystone Park Gardiner

    Dirty bathrooms

    This is my second time I visited the park, the first time was 4 years ago and we stayed in a cabin, but a few weeks ago we decided to stay in a tent side and it was a nice experience except for some things, the campers don't respect the quiet time at night and morning too. A lot noises until 2 am and early from 6 am. But the worst experience was bathrooms, very few for the number of sites and people it covers. They need to add more bathrooms. They rarely cleaned the bathroom in all the 6 days that I stayed. The showers didn't have enough water pressure, 2 out of 6 had only hot water, some had no paper, hairs everywhere, the toilets didn't work, and super dirty, the truth was a disgusting thing that didn't encourage to use them but there was no other option. For the price you pay is not for having the bathrooms under those conditions. I hope you get better because the truth is a park that has many things to have a good time but with the bathrooms with that condition, is not encouraged to reserve again. And please add more shadows in the areas of the tents and MORE BATHROOMS, is not enough to cover all the tents area.

  • sdwalter@bellsouth.net
    Jul. 10, 2025

    Interlake RV Park & Campground

    Great campsite.

    Great Campsite. Well maintained. Lots of pretty lots under the shade. Good for Families. Pool. Recreation Barn. Recycling. Some people stay here all summer. Close to FDR home and library...a must to see. Quaint towns nearby.


Guide to Salisbury

Camping near Salisbury, CT, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: The area is known for its scenic trails. Many campers enjoy the nearby hiking options, with one reviewer mentioning, "This campground is a great location for fishing and hiking (Henry Buck Trail)."
  • Fishing: If you love fishing, you’re in luck! Campers have access to rivers and lakes. One visitor shared, "You’ve got fishing either in 2 private lakes or you can fish in the river."
  • Swimming: Some campgrounds have swimming areas. A camper noted, "The swimming there felt really clean and I loved the dock."

What campers like:

  • Natural Beauty: Campers rave about the stunning surroundings. One reviewer said, "The Catskills are very scenic, and we enjoyed our time there!" at North-South Lake Campground.
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A visitor at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds mentioned, "Each of the campsites has a lot of foliage around it, creating privacy between you and the site next to you."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate helpful staff. One camper noted, "The staff were friendly and really clean bathrooms and shower area" at Lake Compounce Campground.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A camper at White Pines Campsites said, "The campground was very noisy (loud music blasting until 9pm)."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive facilities. One visitor at October Mountain State Forest mentioned, "There is a lot of noise, a lot of people, and not much enforcement of the rules."
  • Bear Activity: Be cautious of wildlife. A camper at North-South Lake Campground warned, "There are bears that visit the campground."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and family-friendly activities. One parent shared, "The beautiful playground equipment was a good-send for our family" at Mills Norrie State Park Campground.
  • Plan for Rain: Be prepared for wet weather. A camper advised, "Bring extra tarps and rope!" after experiencing rainy conditions.
  • Choose the Right Site: Some sites are better for families. A reviewer at Taconic Falls mentioned, "I feel like we got lucky with our site. It had a nice wooded area behind us and felt more private."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. One RVer at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds noted, "We were assured that it would fit. It did—technically."
  • Road Conditions: Be aware of road conditions when driving in. A camper mentioned, "The roads were narrow to squeeze in so many sites, it’s almost impossible to navigate an RV through."
  • Book Early: Popular campgrounds fill up fast. A visitor at Lake Taghkanic State Park suggested, "You’ll have to take a shuttle to get in."

Camping near Salisbury, CT, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any free or low-cost camping options in the Salisbury area?

For budget-conscious campers near Salisbury, several affordable options exist. Alander Trail Camground in Mount Washington State Forest offers free hike-in camping for those willing to backpack. Similarly, Brassie Brook Shelter on the Appalachian Trail provides free accommodations with basic toilet facilities. Devil's Tombstone Campground offers a more economical car camping experience with basic amenities and serves as an affordable base for hiking in the Hunter-West Kill Wilderness, though it requires a short drive from Salisbury.

What are the best campgrounds near Salisbury, CT?

Salisbury's proximity to the Berkshires and Catskills offers several excellent camping options. Lone Oak Camp Sites is highly recommended, with great facilities for families, activities for children, and proximity to waterfalls and Connecticut's highest point. Macedonia Brook State Park Campground is another excellent option, providing clean facilities, running water, and a perfect setting for wilderness skills practice. For those willing to travel a bit further, Taconic State Park areas in nearby New York state offer additional options with various amenities and scenic surroundings.

What outdoor activities are available near Salisbury campgrounds?

The Salisbury area is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with diverse activities. North-South Lake Campground provides access to swimming, fishing, kayaking, and hiking trails directly from spacious campsites. Phoenicia Black Bear Campground offers creek-front sites perfect for water activities and is strategically located near numerous trails. Hiking opportunities abound throughout the region, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging ascents. The area also features Connecticut's highest point, several scenic waterfalls, star-gazing opportunities, and abundant fishing spots in local streams and lakes. Many campgrounds serve as excellent basecamps for exploring the natural beauty of the Berkshires and Taconic Mountains.