Tent camping opportunities around Scotland, Connecticut extend beyond the Connecticut River basin to include wooded areas in nearby Rhode Island and Connecticut state parks. The region contains a mix of primitive riverside sites, island camping accessible only by watercraft, and established campgrounds with basic facilities. Campers typically need to hike between 10-30 minutes from parking areas to reach the most secluded spots, particularly at Arcadia Backpack Area and Buck Hill Campground.
What to do
Kayaking access required: Selden Neck State Park Campground requires approximately 20 minutes of paddling to reach its island campsites. There are no roads or development beyond the four designated campsites, making watercraft transportation essential for all gear and supplies.
Riverside swimming: Natural swimming areas exist at multiple camping locations throughout the region. At Buck Hill Campground, one camper noted: "The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water (including the 'beach')."
Castle exploration: When camping at Gillette Castle State Park Campground, visitors can tour the historic castle during operating hours. One visitor mentioned: "Castle has tours at certain times," making this a convenient cultural activity for campers staying nearby.
What campers like
Private beaches: Low tide reveals secluded beach areas at some riverfront campsites. These natural features provide additional recreational space beyond the main camping area.
Sunset views: Riverfront sites at River Highlands State Park River Campground offer exceptional sunset viewing opportunities. A visitor described it as "absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river," highlighting the scenic advantages of riverside camping.
Quiet surroundings: Hidden Lake Farm provides a peaceful camping environment, with one reviewer simply noting it was "Quiet and Private," making it suitable for campers seeking solitude near Scotland, Connecticut.
What you should know
Minimal facilities: Most tent camping sites around Scotland offer basic amenities only. At Chapman Pond Preserve, facilities consist of "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse" according to one visitor.
Bug awareness: Natural settings often include insects and arachnids typical of Connecticut woodlands. At River Highlands State Park, a camper warned: "As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Permit requirements: Some boat launch locations require permits during peak season. For accessing Selden Neck, a camper noted: "Entering and parking at the boat launch requires a permit Memorial Day to Labor Day."
Weather considerations: Morning fog can affect visibility and water transportation. One Selden Neck camper reported: "In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early. But it burned off before long and we headed back."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly sites: Several locations accommodate families with young children. One parent who camped at Selden Neck with their child shared: "My 5-year-old and I camped at site 2, Hogback. I haven't visited the other sites, but probably will just book this one again because it was so good."
Group site options: For larger family gatherings, Buck Hill Campground offers generous site dimensions. A camper observed: "All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents)," making them suitable for extended family camping trips.
Simple recreation: When camping with children, focus on basic outdoor activities. Buck Hill offers uncomplicated entertainment options, as one camper explained: "Thos is the type of campground to just come and unwind, fish, cook, etc don't expect much else."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The Scotland area primarily offers tent camping with few dedicated RV facilities. Most locations lack hookups, dump stations, or suitable parking for larger recreational vehicles.
Alternative accommodations: For those seeking more comfort than traditional tent camping near Scotland, Connecticut, consider the lodging options at Hidden Lake Farm, where "There are 2 lodging options to choose from" according to visitor information.
Day use before camping: Consider visiting potential camping locations as day trips first. A River Highlands visitor mentioned: "We only visited for the day and left around dawn," allowing them to scout the area before committing to overnight stays.
