Rocky Neck State Park sits 2.5 miles from South Lyme, Connecticut along the Long Island Sound shoreline. The park spans 710 acres with heavily wooded campsites set back from saltwater marshes. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with higher humidity from June through August, making water activities particularly popular during these months.
What to do
Beach swimming access: Rocky Neck State Park Campground offers swimming at a beach within walking distance of campsites. "I love this campsite, I have been going with my friends and family for as long as I can remember. It's right near the beach, and the campsites and bathrooms are always clean!" shares Lexi L., a regular visitor.
Mystic attractions: Mystic KOA provides easy access to the historic seaport and aquarium. "The location of the campground was great as it was easy to find, close to a grocery store, and more importantly close enough to our favorite town in Connecticut allowing us the opportunity to visit the ocean, go out to dinner and enjoy the local stores," notes Jenn, a summer camper.
Pond fishing: Odetah Camping Resort features lakefront sites for fishing enthusiasts. According to Matt O., "Clean facilities. Great staff. New pool and hot tub. Will definitely come back." The resort maintains stocked fishing areas ideal for beginners and children.
What campers like
Multiple water options: Riverdale Farm Campsites offers both a swimming pond and river access. "Great Value and Nice Family owned business. The lake is perfect, the river needs work. But this an awesome small campground," reports Nick H., a regular visitor who appreciates the water variety.
Affordable rates: Burlingame State Park Campground provides budget-friendly sites. "Very affordable (around $14 per night). We stayed near the camp store and playground. Lots to do with kids including fishing, game room, and hiking. Bathrooms were clean," mentions Cendy G., highlighting the value.
Winter glamping options: Several campgrounds near South Lyme operate year-round for winter glamping experiences. "The grounds are large with vast amounts of space. Be forewarned that it's right off of 95, and the sound definitely carries. Trees are sparse in areas, but the sunsets were a nice trade off," notes one visitor about off-season camping.
What you should know
Highway noise: Some glamping sites near South Lyme have highway proximity issues. One Burlingame camper noted, "The grounds are large with vast amounts of space. Be forewarned that it's right off of 95, and the sound definitely carries."
Shower facilities vary: Wolf's Den Family Campground receives praise for bathroom cleanliness. "Sites are nice and the restrooms/showers are the cleanest I've seen anywhere," writes Mary S. However, other campgrounds may charge for showers or have limited facilities.
Reservation timing: Glamping accommodations book quickly May through September. A Niantic KOA visitor shared, "So much going on! They will give free shuttle rides to 3 beaches & downtown Niantic, CT. We had tried to get a deluxe location and not completely booked. This is the weekend before Labor Day and they were vanishing."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with multiple playgrounds and activities. "Charming, full of wonderful amenities and nice extras. Nice staff, fun coin scavenger hunt, great pool, well stocked store, wide sites, lots of grass/trees and space to stretch out," reports Jennifer H. about her Niantic KOA stay.
Seasonal activities: Holiday weekends feature special programming at most South Lyme glamping sites. "We went two years in a row each on Halloween! They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating. Very enjoyable time," mentions Brian P. about Odetah.
Transportation options: Some resorts offer shuttle services to beaches and attractions. "They will give free shuttle rides to 3 beaches & downtown Niantic, CT," notes Snooz H. about Niantic KOA's services, reducing the need for multiple vehicles when glamping with large families.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many glamping areas accommodate larger units but have specific sections. "The sites are very large and spaced out for privacy. The staff was friendly and helpful. If your heading North or South through CT this is a good stop over," explains Matt T. about his Niantic KOA experience.
Off-season advantages: Late September through October offers quieter glamping in South Lyme with reduced rates. "We were there the weekend after Labor Day weekend in 2014, and it was pretty quiet. Nice for biking, cute little beach, dog friendly," shares Katelain T. about Burlingame.
Utility limitations: Not all glamping sites offer full hookups. One visitor noted about Niantic KOA: "Missing full hook ups but the staff and overall vibe more than make up for it. Community garden was something we hadn't seen before - super fun."
