Best Campgrounds near South Britain, CT

The Housatonic River Valley surrounding South Britain, Connecticut provides a range of camping experiences across several state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-minute drive. Kettletown State Park Campground, just minutes from South Britain, offers tent and RV sites along with rustic cabins that lack kitchens and bathrooms. Other nearby options include Black Rock State Park Campground in Watertown and Cozy Hills Campground in Bantam, both providing similar accommodation types. The region features a mix of state-managed recreation areas and privately-owned campgrounds, with many offering swimming access during summer months.

Campground reservations are essential during the peak season from May through September, when most Connecticut state parks operate their camping facilities. Most state park campgrounds in the region close after Labor Day weekend and don't reopen until late May. Winter camping options are limited, though some private facilities like Gentiles Campground remain open year-round. The terrain varies from relatively flat sites along the Housatonic River to more uneven, wooded campsites in the hills. As one visitor noted about Kettletown, "The campsites are uneven, making it challenging to set up tents or campers."

Many campers highlight the family-friendly atmosphere at these Connecticut campgrounds. The area's proximity to hiking trails and water features serves as a primary attraction. Kettletown State Park receives praise for its cleanliness and accessibility, with one camper describing it as "a favorite that is very close to home" with "a ton of watering spots." Several reviews mention the recreational opportunities beyond just camping, including fishing areas, swimming beaches (when water quality permits), and hiking trails. Bathroom facilities vary considerably across locations, with some campgrounds receiving criticism for maintenance issues. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours, though enforcement can be inconsistent according to multiple reviews, especially on summer weekends when larger groups tend to visit.

Best Camping Sites Near South Britain, Connecticut (93)

    1. Kettletown State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Stevenson, CT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (203) 264-5678

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We love this State Park because it's close to our home for a quick getaway.  This time we tried one of the sites on the water, and I probably wouldn't choose the same site again. "

    "Semi private with great view and nice walks to the water. Noise was not a problem overnight as to having problems with noises neighbors at other CT state parks."

    2. Cozy Hills Campground

    9 Reviews
    Bantam, CT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 567-2119

    $72 - $122 / night

    "While this might be fine for some dogs, I have 2 young border collies that will jump that fence like it is not even there."

    "We stayed near the water. Clean private bathrooms were a plus. Clean pool but only 3 feet deep."

    3. Black Rock State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Thomaston, CT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 283-8088

    $17 - $50 / night

    "Beautiful state park, very clean .. fishing, lake swimming, hiking trails. Bathrooms, free showers .. stores within a 5 minute drive. Most of the camp ground site are not secluded .."

    "The family next to me offered me dinner one night after I spent the whole day working on my RV. Spanish rice chicken the works the plate could barely hold it all."

    4. Gentiles Campground

    7 Reviews
    Plymouth, CT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 283-8437

    $55 - $150 / night

    "Quiet CG near Waterbury CT. Close to major stores for resupply. CG has lots of friendly seasonal campers and lots of other sites."

    "There’s two brand new bathrooms on site one of which is conveniently located right by the pool. Owners are doing new renovations to make this place look good!"

    5. Lake Compounce Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bristol, CT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 583-3300

    "Affiliated with Lake Compounce Amusement Park adjacent to campground."

    "It is adjacent to an amusement park so there were lots of families here. None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out."

    6. Lake Waramaug State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    New Preston, CT
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 868-0220

    $17 - $50 / night

    "My family has been camping at Lake Waramaug for over 20 years. I can say most of what’s been said is true or partially so but whether it’s bad or good depends on your point of view."

    "One of my favorite so far , went with family , to comply w covid and social distancing, the camp only rent your site and no one on your left or right or across ! Amazing !"

    7. Steep Rock Association

    1 Review
    Washington, CT
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 868-9131

    "Each one is far away from the others."

    8. Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Fishkill, NY
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 225-7207

    $17 / night

    "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot."

    "We were right next to the entrance for hiking trails which was convenient. The facilities are a bit of a walk, but that means it is spread out and there's plenty of room to relax and have fun."

    9. Freedom Farm Homestead

    1 Review
    New Milford, CT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 508-1594

    $50 - $70 / night

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Recent Reviews near South Britain, CT

535 Reviews of 93 South Britain Campgrounds


  • Sue B.
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    Great State Forest Campground

    Austin Hawes (also known as American Legion State Forest/Campground) is a great little place in a beautiful part of the State. They have cabins if you want some of the creature comforts, as well as sites suitable for tents or campers. Have camped here before in tents and a pop up, it's right on the Farmington River, so we have gone tubing down the river, swimming and fishing as well. The bathrooms have showers and flush toilets, there are hiking trails in and near the campground, and stores not too far. Sites vary in size and privacy.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Black Rock State Park Campground

    Nah

    If you want to feel like you are camping in the middle of a lawless low income housing project, this is the place for you. We camped next to a woman with 2 pit bulls, which was surprising, given the "no dogs allowed" rule, and were surrounded by people partying despite the "no alcohol" rule. Teens congregate in the bathroom so they could charge their devices but did not appreciate you being there to use the bathroom they clearly took over, and even though it's 2025, I still prefer no boyfriends hanging out in the women's bathroom. Call me whatever. Used to camp here years ago, clearly it has gone downhill. Park Ranger? What's that?

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Ten Mile River Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Not a public campground!

    Ten Mile River Shelter and campsite is not a public campground. Sure, anyone can camp there, but it is designated for folks hiking the A.T., whether thru-hikers, section hikers, or whatever. While there are no rules about who can camp there, during thru-hiking season, consideration should be made for folks who rely on places like this during a long distance hike. It is at least a mile if not a mile and a half from approved parking (on the side of the road off the A.T.) to camp, either from the A.T. or a combo of the A.T. and a blue blaze trail (which is easier, imo). There are also no fires allowed on the CT A.T.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    Great staff but back-to-back campsite

    We stayed a coupe of days in Oct. This is a beautiful site to camp out. The staffs are friendly and very attentive.
    Bathroom and water pressure was ok. But one shower location for 50 campsites. Three small showers units and three toilet.
    I never stayed a state campsite where the sites are so close each other. If you like a “normal” distance to your neighbors, I'd not recommend this place.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    New York City North-Newburgh KOA

    Good amenities and fun experience!

    Campsites Great campsites, wooded and cozy, though a little tight for longer rigs as our neighbors found out when they ran over a wooden post backing in. But spaced apart nicely with lots of vegetation between. Nice and level. Amenities Bathrooms are older and need of some repair but let me tell you I was very happy to see a normal shower head with real hot water! So no complaints here. Laundry facilities were clean and open 24/7 with reasonable prices 2.50/2.00 washer/dryer. And the dryers actually worked. Small dog park, communal spaces, and a camp store all made the place feel like a little village. They even have a wine store- cab sav was good. WiFi I work remotely and WiFi is always an issue. We have Starlink but in a wooded campsite, connecting is an issue but luckily their WiFi was great. Had no issues and could stream just fine. Halloween! We visited mid October and folks had sites decorated and the KOA has trick or treating and other activities every weekend in Oct. we were SO bummed to be leaving on a Friday and miss the festivities because it looked really fun. Would definitely go back. Also, staff was super nice.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    Convenient pit stop

    This spot is easy to find and access, and had decent ATT service. There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Point Folly Campground

    Great

    I’ve been coming here for decades. Little store has what you need if you can find the shop keeper. Great access to bantam lake. You can leave you canoes/kayaks tied up in the water. Great fishing. Love it overall. The only issue I have is the pit toilets are brutal. If you are tent camping, beware!

  • Christine S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Cozy Hills Campground

    Quiet and clean

    So far it's been pretty quiet but we are here at the beginning of October on a Monday. Nice area.


Guide to South Britain

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

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Bear Creek Campground said, "Friendly staff and really clean bathrooms and shower area."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer large, private sites. One reviewer at Lake Waramaug State Park Campground mentioned, "You can get a VERY large site that easily fits 3 tents."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peaceful environment. A visitor at Macedonia Brook State Park Campground shared, "Nice campsites with little traffic."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds have minimal services. A camper at Lake Waramaug State Park Campground pointed out, "The campground store is likely not going to be open so bring everything you need."
  • Wildlife Precautions: Be cautious of local wildlife. One camper at Macedonia Brook State Park Campground warned, "Bring lots of bug spray or be eaten alive!"
  • Booking Requirements: Some campgrounds require in-person bookings. A visitor at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation noted, "The one downside is that you need to book in person."

Tips for camping with families:

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Clarence Fahnestock State Park cautioned, "Careful which site you choose."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds don’t offer electric hookups. A visitor at Kettletown State Park Campground noted, "No electric hookups."
  • Watch for Road Conditions: Be aware of narrow roads in campgrounds. A camper at Lone Oak Camp Sites mentioned, "The roads are so narrow to squeeze in so many sites."

Camping near South Britain, Connecticut, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near South Britain, CT?

According to TheDyrt.com, South Britain, CT offers a wide range of camping options, with 93 campgrounds and RV parks near South Britain, CT and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near South Britain, CT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near South Britain, CT is Kettletown State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 13 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near South Britain, CT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near South Britain, CT.

What parks are near South Britain, CT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near South Britain, CT that allow camping, notably Hop Brook Lake and Northfield Brook Lake.