Camping options around Putnam, Connecticut include a mix of established campgrounds and smaller private facilities throughout the Quiet Corner of Connecticut. The area sits at elevations ranging from 400-600 feet and features a relatively flat terrain with scattered ponds and small waterways. Most campgrounds operate from May through October with sites typically situated on compact, wooded parcels that offer a blend of forest camping with nearby water access.
What to do
Disc golf course access: West Thompson Lake Campground offers walking-distance access to disc golf facilities as one reviewer noted: "Hiking trails galore, disk golf, and swimming nearby. so fun!" Several other campgrounds in the area are within a 15-minute drive of established courses.
River tubing and paddling: Charlie Brown Campground features direct access to the Natchaug River where "tubing down the river" is a popular activity. One visitor described: "Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built in entertainment for the kids!"
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer catch-and-release fishing. At West Thompson Lake Campground, a camper mentioned: "The lake is pretty but you cannot swim or eat the fish. There are a lot of choices for hiking including a disc golf course." The no-swimming restrictions at certain lakes make fishing the primary water activity at some locations.
Hiking nearby state forests: Multiple state forests surround Putnam with interconnected trail systems. A visitor to Nickerson Park Family Campground noted: "Walmart & Aldi's is 10-15 minutes away. Pizza places/breakfast spots in the same area as well. Lots of state land to explore nearby."
What campers like
Private riverside sites: Many campgrounds feature secluded spots along waterways. One camper at Charlie Brown Campground shared: "We chose the best spot for our first camping trip with our new travel trailer. Everyone assisted us and taught us the world of camping." Riverside sites often book quickly during summer months.
Lean-to camping options: Some campgrounds offer built structures as alternatives to tent camping. A reviewer at West Thompson Lake Campground explained: "We stayed at one of their lean-to sites a few years ago with 3 other friends and had a good time. Very convenient to have the elevated space to sleep and store items in."
Spacious tent areas: Bowdish Lake Camping Area receives praise for its tent camping accommodations with one camper noting: "We went for a weekend only so we weren't there long but everything was great. The site was very secluded and very large which was awesome!"
Quieter weekday stays: Several campgrounds experience significant differences between weekend and weekday occupancy. A visitor to Wilderness Lake Park observed: "Mostly permanent summer residents parked with big rigs and plastic decor. But, almost nobody around mid week August."
What you should know
Late arrivals: Some campgrounds have strict arrival protocols. At Wilderness Lake Park, a camper noted: "The employees and owners also went out of the way to accommodate our late arrival which was very much appreciated." Other facilities may close entry gates at specific times.
Payment options vary: Not all campgrounds accept credit cards. According to a Wilderness Lake Park visitor: "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared."
Swimming restrictions: Water quality concerns impact swimming access at several campgrounds. As one visitor to George Washington State Campground reported: "There is swimming at the lake but it looked way too dirty."
Elevation variations: While the region is relatively flat, some campgrounds have challenging terrain. A George Washington State Campground camper explained: "The A1-A7 sites are remote and hike in, but you're going to have to hike either 0.4 or 0.6 miles through some uneven terrain."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Many campgrounds schedule organized events. At Stateline Campresort & Cabins, a camper shared: "We went to their Oktoberfest that they did on Saturday and that was decorated great and the band and activities were good!"
Multiple swimming options: Facilities often provide alternatives for water recreation. A Brialee Family Campground visitor noted: "Deep in the woods. Great variety of activities. Swimming lake, canoeing lake, pool, playgrounds. Choice of shade in trees or open field."
Free water craft usage: Some campgrounds provide complimentary equipment. At Wilderness Lake Park, a visitor explained: "Beautiful views, spacious site and lots to do. They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake."
Site selection advice: Sites vary significantly within the same campground. A reviewer at George Washington State Campground recommended: "The T1-T5 [sites]... T5 was the best of the bunch because it had the most privacy and space, including a grassy area."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup sites: Reservations for full-service sites require advance planning. At Charlie Brown Campground, a camper noted: "There was not sewer drains, but it's ok, they have a nice dump station on your way out."
Check site dimensions: Some campgrounds have challenging access. A visitor to Wells State Park Campground commented: "We unexpectedly arrived at the campground around 10pm, after a long and grueling day on the road. The site seemed nice, but was very un-level, with a steep, narrow driveway."
Electric usage fees: Some campgrounds charge additional fees. A camper at Bowdish Lake Camping Area warned: "They charged us an additional .50 cents per kWh which cost us an average of $250.00 extra per month."
Wood delivery service: Many campgrounds offer convenient firewood options. A Wilderness Lake Park visitor mentioned: "Wood delivery is awesome especially since tent area is a slight distance from office, but that is also a bonus so you're away from the RV sites."
