Best Campgrounds near South Kent, CT
State parks and forests surrounding South Kent, Connecticut feature a mix of established campgrounds and more rustic options within a short drive. Macedonia Brook State Park Campground, just north of Kent, offers tent and RV sites with basic amenities including drinking water, electric hookups, and fire rings. Lake Waramaug State Park Campground in nearby New Preston provides lakeside camping with boat-in access and glamping options. Housatonic Meadows State Park in Sharon sits along the Housatonic River, making it popular with anglers and paddlers. Most campgrounds in this region maintain a wooded, natural setting while still providing essential facilities like picnic tables, restrooms, and in many cases, shower facilities.
Most state park campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from late May through early September, with some extending into early October. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends when sites fill quickly. Cell service varies considerably throughout the region's valleys and hills, with better reception typically found at higher elevations. As one camper at Macedonia Brook State Park noted, "The place is great for teaching wilderness survival skills. It has running water, porta potties, and some cell service if you get towards the building." Wildlife encounters are common, with visitors to Lake Waramaug reporting, "There are lots of skunks and squirrels that will get into everything even in a bin."
Proximity to water features distinguishes many camping areas near South Kent. Several campgrounds offer swimming access, though water quality can vary seasonally. A visitor to Lake Waramaug observed, "Sites are huge and you will almost always have a view of the water." Trail access is another highlight, with many campgrounds serving as gateways to hiking networks. The region's topography creates varied camping experiences, from riverside sites at Housatonic Meadows to more elevated positions at Macedonia Brook with views of surrounding hills. Privacy between sites varies significantly by location and specific site number, with weekday stays generally offering more seclusion than busy summer weekends. For those seeking more amenities, private campgrounds like Cozy Hills in Bantam provide additional facilities including markets and organized activities.
