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Best Campgrounds near South Windsor, CT

668 Reviews

Campgrounds near South Windsor, Connecticut range from established family-oriented resorts to more rustic state park facilities. Within a 30-mile radius, campers can find options like Wilderness Lake Park in Willington and The Quarry Campground, both offering a mix of tent and RV sites. Most campgrounds in the region provide electric hookups, water access, and fire rings, with several featuring cabin rentals and glamping accommodations. Lake Compounce Campground in Bristol, approximately 25 miles west of South Windsor, stands out with its proximity to an amusement park and variety of accommodation types including cabins and yurts.

Seasonal operation typically runs from April through October, with many facilities closing for winter. Connecticut's camping season peaks during summer months when temperatures average 75-85°F, though spring and fall offer more moderate conditions with fewer crowds. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays between Memorial Day and Labor Day when availability becomes limited. Most campgrounds require advance booking through reservation systems, with many sites filling months ahead for prime summer weekends. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, though coverage may vary in more remote areas. According to one visitor at American Legion State Forest, "Very chilled and secluded in your own site. I liked that it felt like a little community but still quite private."

Campers consistently rate waterfront access as a significant draw at several locations. Waters Edge Family Campground in Lebanon provides boat-in access, while other properties feature swimming areas, fishing ponds, and water recreation. Family-friendly amenities represent another highlight, with many campgrounds offering playgrounds, organized activities, and recreation facilities. Several reviewers note the proximity to regional attractions as a benefit, with one camper describing Wilderness Lake Park as "conveniently located off I-84" making it accessible for weekend trips. Bathroom and shower facilities vary considerably across properties, with state park campgrounds generally offering more basic amenities compared to private resorts. Noise levels depend largely on location, with campgrounds closer to highways experiencing more ambient sound than those in more secluded settings.

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Mineral Springs Family Campgrounds

Mineral Springs Family Campgrounds

28 min away

Tolland State Forest Campground

Tolland State Forest Campground

54 min away

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Best Camping Sites Near South Windsor, Connecticut (164)

    1. Wilderness Lake Park

    14 Reviews
    Willington, CT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 684-6352

    $70 / night

    "Connecticut is LACKING when it comes to outdoor activities when compared to some of the places around the country."

    "It’s a dog friendly park which was good for us, our dog could swim in the lake with us. Cute patio overlooking the lake as well with seating."

    2. The Quarry Campground

    4 Reviews
    Tolland, CT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 875-8325

    $45 - $68 / night

    "We came to discover new bike trails and this one was close to the Hop bike trail which we enjoyed very much"

    3. Lake Compounce Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bristol, CT
    19 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."

    4. Onion Mountain Park

    3 Reviews
    West Simsbury, CT
    13 miles
    Website

    "We arrived at the parking lot of Onion Mountain Park at around 2 pm and proceeded to get our bags packed for the hike."

    "It’s up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take. However, it’s not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."

    5. Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    12 Reviews
    Riverton, CT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0922

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We were passing through Connecticut and needed a place to crash. Loved this campsite! Very chilled and secluded in your own site. I liked that it felt like a litrle community but still quotr private."

    "Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots.

    Definitely need to come back. Great rates on all sites."

    6. Brialee Family Campground

    14 Reviews
    Ashford, CT
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 303-2267

    $25 - $150 / night

    "Swimming lake, canoeing lake, pool, playgrounds. Choice of shade in trees or open field. Nice sites. Decent laundry and showers. Great place with kids.....lots of seasonal, but plenty short term."

    "Nice hiking around the area. Bathrooms are clean. Good for kids/families."

    7. Waters Edge Family Campground

    10 Reviews
    Amston, CT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 642-7470

    $45 - $100 / night

    "We’ve been to campgrounds with playgrounds worse than the waters edge dog park."

    "This is our families favorite camping location. On the pond at Waters Edge. When asked where they want to camp my 5 and 7 year old will always respond with Waters Edge."

    8. White Pines Campsites

    11 Reviews
    Winsted, CT
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0124

    $74 / night

    "However one issue was the garbage situation. Had to walk a long distance to throw out the trash."

    "We got a tent spot and it was perfect since it was the furthest one away and there was no one near us which is probably why we loved it so much bc we were so isolated. a little disappointed in the site"

    9. River Highlands State Park River Campground

    1 Review
    Cromwell, CT
    14 miles
    +1 (203) 287-5658

    $5 / night

    "We only visited for the day and left around dawn, but the campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river."

    10. Prospect Mountain Campground and RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Granville, MA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (413) 357-6494

    "The kids had a blast fishing and riding their bikes around. We are going to make this a yearly thing from now on!!"

    "This is over the boarder in mass from ct We did a three month seasonal Site Staff is super nice and helpful We had a nice quite spot even though we where in the road to the lake"

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Recent Camping Photos near South Windsor, CT

307 Photos of 164 South Windsor Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near South Windsor, CT

668 Reviews of 164 South Windsor 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.

  • j
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Crocker's Boatyard

    Great!

    Great spot with view of harbor, a pool, bathroom and power if needed. Easy to book, good location- near many places of interest.

  • Snooz H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Niantic KOA

    I mean wow!!

    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 point the owner / shuttle driver, John, asked us if we would want to move on Sunday after a bunch of people moved out. And we said absolutely because we're going to be here for 3 more nights.

    And it is huge and amazing! If you want to pay a little extra for the deluxe request slot 92!

  • 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.

  • Jim R.
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Indian Ranch Campground

    Live Music, Lake Views, and Laid-Back Vibes—One of Our Favorite Campgrounds

    We ended up at Indian Ranch Campground after leaving another local campground under less-than-ideal circumstances… and honestly, it turned out to be one of the best accidental discoveries we’ve ever made.

    From the moment we arrived, the energy here was completely different—welcoming, relaxed, and full of life. The campground is beautifully laid out with well-kept sites, plenty of trees, and easy access to Webster Lake(aka Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg—yes, really).

    🎶 The concerts? Incredible. Being able to walk from our campsite to watch national music acts perform live at the Indian Ranch Amphitheater is a game-changer. It’s like a music festival that doesn’t require you to sleep in a muddy field. Huge bonus for music lovers!

    🛺 Golf cart rentals make exploring the campground easy and fun, especially if you're hauling chairs, coolers, or just want to cruise around and enjoy the views.

    🏊‍♂️ The pool is clean and inviting—perfect for relaxing after a show or just enjoying a sunny afternoon.

    🌅 The lake itself is stunning, with spots to sit and watch the boats, fish, or just take in the view. The vibe is very“lake life meets concert culture,” and it works perfectly.

    🍔 There’s also an on-site restaurant inside the gates with great food, cold drinks, and a laid-back patio atmosphere that completes the experience.

    🤝 The people here? Fantastic. Campers were friendly, staff was helpful, and there was an overall sense of community that you just don’t get at every park. In Summary: Awesome mix of camping+ concerts Clean facilities, full hookups, and spacious sites Golf cart rentals= a must! Pool, lake, and great food on-site Walkable access to live shows= chef’s kiss🎶 We stumbled in… and didn’t want to leave If you're looking for more than just a campsite—if you want an experience—this is it. We'll be back. Probably more than once.

  • Jim R.
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Douglas Forest RV Resort

    Please—Do Your Homework Before You Stay Here

    I wish I wasn’t writing this.

    Truly. But if sharing our experience helps even one person avoid the same mistake, then it’s worth it.

    We booked two full weeks at Douglas Forest RV Resort, drawn in by its wooded setting and supposed family-friendly charm. The photos looked peaceful. The location sounded perfect. But within hours of arrival, we realized we had walked into something completely different.

    Almost immediately, we witnessed aggressive, disturbing behavior—adults yelling and chasing children through the park. At one point, a child was literally being pursued by a vehicle. In a campground. On the roads where people walk, dogs are walked, and kids ride bikes. We were shocked. We kept expecting someone from staff to step in—but no one did. When we brought it up to another guest, they just nodded and said,“Yeah… it’s always like this.” Turns out, management is known to overlook certain behavior from“regulars.”

    As we walked the grounds, we also noticed**several people clearly living out of tents—**not camping, not weekend warriors, but living there long-term. It gave the entire campground an uneasy, off-kilter feel. The line between traveler and transient is not well-maintained here, and it adds to the overall lack of safety and structure.

    We were ready to leave that night, but with tight, poorly lit roads, towing out after dark just wasn’t safe. So we locked up, barely slept, and pulled out at first light. We had paid for 14 nights. We stayed one. And we didn’t ask for a refund—because honestly, we just wanted out.

    And yes, we later discovered that many of the glowing reviews online were written by someone who works at the campground. That’s not just misleading—it’s reckless. Campers rely on those reviews to make informed choices.

    Douglas Forest RV Resort could be something special, but it’s not. Not right now. Not while safety is ignored, accountability is non-existent, and some guests are clearly treated as untouchable. Please, do your homework before booking here.

    We wish we had—just one day earlier.

  • Glenn M.
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Douglas Forest RV Resort

    Reviews seem to be disappearing for this property.

    Mixed Experience- Potential Hindered by Operational Issues

    The new ownership appears committed to improvements, though the focus seems more on revenue generation than guest experience at this time. 

    Infrastructure Concerns: The electrical system needs significant attention. Multiple RVs share single pedestals, and we observed exposed wire connections and pest issues at electrical boxes. Power fluctuations are common during warm weather, causing frequent breaker trips. The road system requires maintenance- while some fresh gravel has been applied, many intersections remain challenging for larger trailers due to poor grading and poorly placed boulders. 

    Accommodations& Atmosphere: This is primarily a seasonal/long-term resident park rather than a traditional camping resort. The site composition includes many permanent residents, which creates more of a residential community feel. For those seeking a transient camping experience, this may not align with expectations.

    Facilities: The pool is well-maintained and enjoyable. However, other amenities need attention- the playground equipment shows its age, and laundry facilities, while clean, have mechanical reliability issues. Currently, only one restroom facility is fully operational, with others being gradually brought online.

    Accessibility: Most sites feature loose gravel surfaces that may present challenges for guests with mobility equipment. The playground uses mulch surfacing, which may also limit accessibility.

    Management: Communication with management regarding concerns can be challenging, and families should be prepared for a more relaxed supervision environment.

    Bottom Line: While the location has natural beauty and potential, current operational challenges and pricing don't align well with the amenity level provided. Those seeking a quiet, well-maintained camping experience might find better value elsewhere until improvements are completed. Positive reviews seem to be coming from investors of the campground or people with personal interest.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    The Quarry Campground

    Lots of Amenities

    The Quarry has something for everyone. Swimming, fishing, hiking, seasonal, daily, full hookups or tenting. Lots of pull throughs!

Guide to South Windsor

Camping near South Windsor, Connecticut, offers a mix of beautiful nature and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a tent site or an RV spot, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Hammonasset State Park Campground, are just a short walk or drive from the beach. "The campground is about 20 min. walk and 5 min. drive to the beach," shared a camper, highlighting the convenience of enjoying the sun and sand.
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park. One visitor noted, "There is a tall canopy of large trees, deciduous and fir, giving a comforting ambience."
  • Fishing and Swimming: Campers at Wildwood State Park Campground enjoy easy access to swimming and fishing. "The beach is in walking distance. You can swim or fish there," mentioned a satisfied visitor.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for George Washington State Campground stated, "Sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept, bathrooms were very clean with hot showers."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds, such as Mystic KOA, are designed for families. "The entire place is completely geared to families," one reviewer noted, praising the activities available for kids.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy roomy sites at places like Rocky Neck State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "The site itself is not very private but very spacious."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Wells State Park Campground mentioned, "The highway is very loud (I-90 is across the lake)."
  • Reservation Policies: It's best to book in advance, especially during busy times. A reviewer for Pine Acres Family Camping Resort noted, "Had to book at least 5 nights to stay in July and was very expensive for what you get."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at October Mountain State Forest pointed out, "There is no dump station on site and $7 for four pieces of firewood."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan Activities: Look for campgrounds with organized activities for kids. "Family movies, trick or treating and hay rides all as part of the stay," shared a parent about their experience at Mystic KOA.
  • Choose the Right Site: Opt for sites that offer some privacy and space for kids to play. A camper at Hammonasset State Park Campground mentioned, "There were kids on bikes, scooters, skateboards, roller blades."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along games and outdoor toys to keep the kids entertained. One family at George Washington State Campground enjoyed the "unique and fun play area for kids."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Accessibility: Make sure the campground can accommodate your RV size. A reviewer at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park noted, "The sites were well shaded and spacious."
  • Utilize Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for a more comfortable stay. A camper at Mystic KOA appreciated the "50 AMP, sewer & water hookup."
  • Be Prepared for Traffic: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can be noisy. A visitor at Pine Acres Family Camping Resort mentioned, "Too much traffic...vehicles and golf carts."

Camping around South Windsor, Connecticut, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities do South Windsor area camping facilities offer?

Campgrounds near South Windsor feature a variety of amenities to enhance your stay. Hammonasset State Park Campground provides well-maintained showers and bathrooms, a fully-stocked camp store, and beautiful beaches just steps from campsites. Mystic KOA offers excellent facilities including a swimming pool, camp store, and clean facilities, making it perfect for families. Many area campgrounds provide water access, with options for swimming, fishing, and boating. Most sites feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to bathhouses. State park campgrounds typically offer hiking trails, while private campgrounds often include playgrounds, game rooms, and organized activities.

Where are the campgrounds near South Windsor, CT?

Several excellent campgrounds are located within driving distance of South Windsor. Wilderness Lake Park offers a secluded retreat with both tent and RV sites. Just a short drive away, Wolf's Den Family Campground is conveniently located off Route 9 on the east side of the Connecticut River, near attractions like Gillette Castle and Goodspeed Opera House. Other nearby options include Lake Compounce Campground near Bristol, Waters Edge Family Campground in Lebanon, and Brialee Family Campground in Ashford, all within reasonable driving distance from South Windsor.

What are the costs for camping options around South Windsor?

Camping costs near South Windsor vary based on the type of campground and amenities offered. Rocky Neck State Park Campground charges approximately $33 per night for basic sites with bathhouse access but no hookups. Hopeville Pond State Park Campground offers similar state park pricing with affordable sites that include access to swimming, fishing, and hiking opportunities. Private campgrounds typically charge more but provide additional amenities. Expect to pay $40-60 for basic tent sites at private campgrounds and $60-90 for RV sites with hookups. Many campgrounds offer discounts for longer stays and have different seasonal rates, with peak summer months commanding premium prices.

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