Best Campgrounds near Stamford, CT

Campgrounds near Stamford, Connecticut cluster primarily around the edges of the New York-Connecticut border, with several established options within a 30-60 minute drive. The region includes a mix of state parks and county facilities offering diverse camping accommodations. Kettletown State Park in Southbury provides tent, RV and cabin camping with access to showers and electric hookups. Other notable camping areas include Croton Point Park and Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, both in New York but easily accessible from Stamford. These mixed-use campgrounds typically feature fire rings, picnic tables, and varying levels of amenities, from primitive tent sites to more developed areas with water and electric hookups.

Camping availability runs primarily from April through October, with most facilities closing during winter months. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer when waterfront sites fill quickly. Several campgrounds require advance booking through state or county reservation systems. Campgrounds like Clarence Fahnestock State Park offer both drive-in and hike-in access, while others like Beaver Pond Campground at Harriman State Park provide boat-in options. Weather conditions vary seasonally, with summer temperatures typically moderate but occasionally humid. Cell phone reception can be limited at some campgrounds, and campers should be prepared for varied terrain. According to one visitor at Kettletown State Park, "The sites were super close together and the boundary lines were unclear, so my neighbors ended up using my fire ring to secure their tent."

Most established campgrounds in the area provide basic amenities like restrooms and drinking water, though the quality and proximity to campsites varies. Beaver Pond Campground at Harriman State Park offers electric hookups and sanitary dump stations for RVs, while more rustic options like Mountain Lakes Park have fewer amenities but more seclusion. Proximity to water features is a common highlight, with several campgrounds offering lake or river access. As one camper noted about Croton Point Park, "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds right on the Hudson with beach and trails." Wildlife encounters are frequently mentioned in reviews, with deer, rabbits, and raccoons common throughout the region. Campers should be aware that many facilities prohibit alcohol, and quiet hours are typically enforced beginning at 10 PM, though enforcement varies by location.

Best Camping Sites Near Stamford, Connecticut (71)

    1. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

    9 Reviews
    Cross River, NY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 864-7317

    $45 - $55 / night

    "Close to the city and civilization, yet large enough to have nice trails and creeks to feel away from it all. The camping sites are very different so it’s useful to go in person and select the area."

    "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well"

    2. Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    41 Reviews
    Pomona, NY
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 947-2792

    $17 - $20 / night

    "Drive-in tent campgrounds. Adequate restroom facilities sprinkled amongst tent sites. Some campsites have raised platforms. All sites have picnic tables and fire ring with flip-top grill."

    "The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out."

    3. Croton Point Park

    10 Reviews
    Croton-on-Hudson, NY
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 862-5290

    $30 - $60 / night

    "Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience! Bathrooms with shower is near by and has plenty porta potties all around."

    "Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"

    4. Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Fishkill, NY
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 225-7207

    $17 / night

    "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot."

    "We were right next to the entrance for hiking trails which was convenient. The facilities are a bit of a walk, but that means it is spread out and there's plenty of room to relax and have fun."

    5. Mountain Lakes Park

    3 Reviews
    North Salem, NY
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 864-7312

    "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC. A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in."

    "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it."

    6. Blydenburgh County Park

    11 Reviews
    Hauppauge, NY
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (631) 854-3713

    "just a great place to get away from home"

    "The group camping on the fox sites is accessible by a dirt drive in. I felt like I was suddenly transported upstate when in fact I had only driven 2 towns over, (about 20 minutes from home.)"

    7. Battle Row Campground

    4 Reviews
    Old Bethpage, NY
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (516) 572-8690

    $5 - $60 / night

    "You can take bike rides , and relax outside with a nice amount of space to yourself ."

    8. Kettletown State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Stevenson, CT
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (203) 264-5678

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We love this State Park because it's close to our home for a quick getaway. 

    This time we tried one of the sites on the water, and I probably wouldn't choose the same site again. "

    "Semi private with great view and nice walks to the water. Noise was not a problem overnight as to having problems with noises neighbors at other CT state parks."

    9. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park

    6 Reviews
    Pomona, NY
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (617) 523-0636

    "This was beautiful campground with an even nicer lake. You are able to do a hike around the lake."

    "Great trails to hike for novices looking to branch out but not too large that you'll be lost forever lol highly recommend and can't do so enough 👍🏽"

    10. Wildwood State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Wading River, NY
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (631) 929-4314

    $20 - $250 / night

    "The beach is in a walking distance. You can swim or fish there. This camp site has a relatively new and clean facility.

    There are many farms near by where you can get fresh veggies and fruits."

    "However there are too many loud families and the sites are too close in proximity for me."

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Recent Reviews near Stamford, CT

379 Reviews of 71 Stamford Campgrounds



Guide to Stamford

Camping near Stamford, Connecticut, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking: Many campgrounds, like Clarence Fahnestock State Park, have great trails. One visitor mentioned, "The NYS Parks has done a lot of work on the surrounding trails," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing and Swimming: At Hammonasset State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. A camper shared, "The beach was popular," highlighting the fun you can have by the water.
  • Exploring Nature Centers: Many parks have nature centers. One reviewer at Hammonasset State Park noted, "They have a beautiful Nature Center," which is great for learning about local wildlife.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A visitor at Beaver Pond Campground said, "I enjoy the beach/lakefront, and regularly cleaned bathroom and shower facilities."
  • Secluded Sites: Many enjoy the privacy of wooded sites. One camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park mentioned, "It’s close to NYC and has secluded, wooded sites nestled amongst big boulders."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner offer lots of activities for kids. A parent noted, "This place is so much fun. My whole family loved the activities."

What you should know

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during peak times. A visitor at Beaver Pond Campground warned, "I DO NOT recommend going on holiday weekends or peak summer seasons."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A camper at Hammonasset State Park mentioned, "The bathrooms are very outdated and not cleaned often enough."
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of wildlife, especially at campgrounds like Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. One reviewer noted, "There are a lot of bear warnings here."

Tips for camping with families

  • Plan for Activities: Choose campgrounds with family-friendly activities. A parent at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner said, "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore."
  • Bring Entertainment: If you're camping at a quieter spot, pack games or books. A camper at Wildwood State Park Campground mentioned, "The only drawback is if you don't live on Long Island, the traffic getting here and leaving is insane."
  • Check for Amenities: Make sure the campground has the facilities you need. A visitor at Cheesequake State Park Campground noted, "The bathroom/shower facility is old, filthy and needs to be torn down."

Tips from RVers

  • Site Selection: Choose your site carefully. One RVer at Panther Lake Camping Resort said, "The campground has a lot of seasonal residents, in the summer it's probably very busy and loud."
  • Connectivity Issues: Be prepared for limited cell service. A visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner mentioned, "Our Verizon cell service was practically non-existent."
  • Bring Your Own Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation advised, "Bring everything you need."

Camping around Stamford, Connecticut, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a family getaway or a peaceful retreat in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any tent camping sites near Stamford for families?

Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park is an excellent family-friendly option near Stamford. This drive-in tent campground offers sites with picnic tables and fire rings with flip-top grills. Some campsites feature raised platforms, and the campground has adequate restroom facilities throughout. For families seeking privacy, the back end of the campground (sites #1, 13, 15, 21, 23) provides quieter spots. Macedonia Brook State Park Campground is another good family option with hiking trails and natural settings suitable for children to explore. Both parks typically require reservations during peak summer months.

What are the best campgrounds near Stamford, CT?

The Stamford area offers several excellent camping options within driving distance. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in nearby New York is popular among locals for its multiple hiking trails and group gathering areas. For those willing to drive a bit further, Kettletown State Park Campground provides access to water activities and hiking trails. Both parks offer tent camping with basic amenities. These campgrounds tend to be busier during summer weekends and holidays, so reservations are recommended. The region's campgrounds typically operate from spring through fall, with some offering winter activities like sledding at Ward Pound Ridge.

Is there lake camping available near Stamford, Connecticut?

Wawayanda State Park Campground offers excellent lake camping within driving distance of Stamford. The park features a beautiful lake perfect for swimming and paddling during summer months. While some campsites aren't completely level (primarily dirt/grass ground), they provide a comfortable camping experience. The more remote group sites offer a secluded feel but note that some areas don't have running water or showers within walking distance. Mountain Lakes Park is another option with multiple lakes for fishing and paddling. Both parks typically operate from spring through fall, with summer being the busiest season requiring advance reservations.

What RV camping options are available in the Stamford area?

For RV enthusiasts near Stamford, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers a convenient option with city access. Though more of an urban camping experience, it provides necessary hookups for RVs. For those seeking more natural surroundings, Croton Point Park offers breathtaking views right on the Hudson River. The park accommodates RVs with nearby bathroom and shower facilities. Croton Point features both paved areas and more secluded spots. Most RV sites in the region require reservations, especially during summer months. Be sure to check length restrictions and hookup availability when planning your trip, as amenities vary by location.