Camping spots near Storrs, Connecticut range from small riverside settings to large campgrounds with resort-style amenities. The area sits within Connecticut's decidedly hilly eastern region at elevations between 550-750 feet, creating varied camping environments with access to the Natchaug River watershed. Late summer through early fall offers the most reliable camping conditions with temperatures typically ranging from 50-75°F.
What to do
River activities: At Peppertree Camping you can spend time on the Natchaug River. "We had more fun tubing down the river. The area is peaceful and has sites right on the river some and further away for tents and trailers," notes one camper.
Kayaking and canoeing: Wilderness Lake Park offers free watercraft use. "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," mentions a visitor. Another adds, "Bring your own kayaks or use the campgrounds free of charge."
Fishing spots: Several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities in their lakes and rivers. At Wilderness Lake Park, "The lake was quiet and we saw kids swimming in it in the morning." Charlie Brown Campground is "adjacent to the Natchaug River" where fishing is popular.
Hiking trails: The area features several hiking options close to campgrounds. A Wilderness Lake Park camper noted, "Taylor Pond is not far and a great hike to bring both kids and pets," while another mentioned there was "a hiking trail on the property."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Site seclusion varies widely between campgrounds. At Charlie Brown Campground, "Everyone assisted us and taught us the world of camping. Very friendly guests and staff!" One visitor to Wilderness Lake Park appreciated that "the host gave us a secluded spot in the back to the point I didn't feel like I was at a campground other than the fire ring."
Convenient locations: Many campgrounds are strategically located near highways. Wilderness Lake Park is "conveniently located just off I-84 (exit 70)," making it accessible for weekend trips. The Quarry Campground is described as a "great hidden gem off the hwy!"
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms and grounds. At The Quarry Campground, "Facilities were easy to use and clean. Sites were wide open and easy to access." Another camper noted the campground is "well-maintained" with "many of the sites secluded."
Recreational amenities: Many sites offer various activities beyond nature. The Quarry Campground features "2 separate ponds: one for fishing, one for swimming; large outdoor games; Rec hall with video games, 50¢ pool table, live music; volleyball; boat rentals; and even a baseball diamond!"
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. Waters Edge Family Campground runs from "April-October," while Wilderness Lake Park operates from "April 1 to December 1," offering an extended fall season.
Campground density: Proximity to other campers varies significantly. Waters Edge has been described as "enormous and well maintained," while a review for Salt Rock Campground mentions that "you can basically see every campsite from anywhere in the park, barely any trees in between sites to add privacy."
Payment policies: Some campgrounds have specific payment requirements. A camper at Wilderness Lake Park noted, "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared," which is important to know before arrival.
Reservation needs: Many campgrounds, particularly in summer months, require advance booking. A camper shared, "To reserve, fill out the form on the website and you'll get a confirmation. You can pay at the office when you check in."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Brialee Family Campground offers structured programs for children. "The campground offers activities pretty much hourly for kids and adults to enjoy. Along with a pool, they also have a beach and a separate beach for dogs," mentions one visitor. Another adds, "Plenty of activities and things for kids to do; Rec hall, mini golf, shuffleboard, beach, pool, playground."
Weekend considerations: Several campgrounds have busier, more activity-filled weekends. "They make sure the weekends are for families," notes a Brialee visitor. Another mentions, "Weekends tend to get loud but we don't mind that."
Cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort while still enjoying outdoor experiences. A recent visitor to Brialee shared, "The cabin was absolutely beautiful and clean. The activities were great and kept my grand children busy."
Bathroom accessibility: Family campers should note bathroom locations when selecting sites. A reviewer at Peppertree mentioned that their children "spent hours in it [the river] playing and fishing," while another noted that at Wilderness Lake, "Bathrooms close by 10, something to keep in mind."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Different campgrounds offer varied hookup arrangements. At Nickerson Park Family Campground, "There was not sewer drains, but it's ok, they have a nice dump station on your way out." The Quarry advertises full hookups but one camper clarified this meant "leaving our grey tanks open."
Site sizing: RV site dimensions vary significantly between locations. Nickerson Park offers "nice secluded, clean sites," and visitors note they can accommodate larger rigs. A visitor to Charlie Brown Campground mentioned they could still park their "26' camper trailer" despite being "deep in the woods."
Water disposal: Some campgrounds have specific procedures for wastewater. At Brialee, a seasonal camper noted, "There was not full service sewer hook up, only gray water. There was a dump station."
Camping near Storrs offers varied experiences from basic tent sites to full-service RV accommodations, with natural features ranging from riverside settings to wooded lake environments.
