Tent camping near Stafford Springs, Connecticut provides access to several primitive and rustic camping options within the Connecticut River Valley. The region features mixed hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 400-800 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Several campgrounds require walking to sites from parking areas, creating more secluded camping environments than drive-up locations.
What to do
Hike to scenic viewpoints: At Federated Womens Club State Forest, trails lead to Soapstone Hill with views of Quabbin Reservoir. "If you continue past site 15, you'll head through Gate 36 out toward Soapstone Hill which offers a great view of Quabbin Reservoir and sunsets," notes one camper.
Paddle the Connecticut River: Selden Neck State Park Campground offers riverside camping accessible only by boat. "It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island. If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags," advises a visitor.
Swimming in local waters: Several campgrounds provide water access for cooling off. At Chapman Pond Preserve, campers can set up near the Connecticut River, with one visitor noting the site has "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view."
What campers like
Peaceful camping environments: Tully Lake Recreation Area gets high marks for its quiet atmosphere. "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out. No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around," shares one visitor.
Natural wilderness experience: Onion Mountain Park offers a more rustic option with primitive sites. A camper notes, "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis."
Waterfront access: Many campers appreciate water views and activities. "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. It is amazing with the views of the CT River and being able to watch the sunrise and sunset," reports a visitor to Gillette Castle State Park Campground.
What you should know
Limited facilities are common: Most tent sites around Stafford Springs are primitive. At Hidden Lake Farm, basic amenities include drinking water, toilets, and showers, but sites remain rustic.
Site access varies widely: Some campgrounds have significant hikes to reach sites. Federated Womens Club State Forest has challenging access: "Some of the sites are definitely walk-in, with a narrow trail leading from the road. It's possible to park at other sites; I'm guessing the gate at the beginning of the road toward the campground is open when the campground is open."
Cell service limitations: Poor connectivity is common in this region. One camper warns about Federated Womens Club State Forest: "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here."
Tips for camping with families
Choose no-vehicle sites for safety: At Tully Lake, families appreciate the car-free environment. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay."
Consider site distance from facilities: Plan for nighttime bathroom trips. One Tully Lake visitor cautioned: "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night. Not our favorite place, but to be fair mostly based on our site and neighboring campers."
Pack insect protection: River Highlands State Park River Campground visitors note significant insect presence. "The campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river. As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Tips from RVers
Use tent-only sites for authentic experiences: Most campsites near Stafford Springs are designed specifically for tent camping, not RVs. At Sodom Mountain Campground, tent sites are separated from RV areas, which one camper noted has "improved with the new owners as of 2021. All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired."
Consider glamping alternatives: For those wanting RV comforts without the vehicle, several campgrounds offer alternative accommodations. Hidden Lake Farm provides "2 lodging options to choose from. Pets welcome!"
Prepare for minimal hookups: Tent camping sites typically lack RV amenities. While a few campgrounds list electric hookups in their features, most tent sites are primitive with fire rings and picnic tables only.
