Storrs, Connecticut features hilly, forested terrain in the state's northeastern region at an elevation of approximately 640 feet. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F while spring and fall can experience notable temperature fluctuations between day and night. Campgrounds in this area typically open from April through October, with several offering water activities on local rivers and ponds.
What to do
River tubing at Charlie Brown Campground: Float down the Natchaug River directly from your campsite. "We chose a site by the water. Rain had been sparse so didn't matter our weekend but I would imagine it would be great on a hot sunny day," notes one visitor from Charlie Brown Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide pond or river access for fishing. At Wilderness Lake Park, "The lake was quiet and we saw kids swimming in it in the morning. There was a hiking trail on the property and the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property," according to a camper.
Free water recreation: Some campgrounds offer complimentary equipment. At Wilderness Lake Park, "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," reports a recent visitor. Several campgrounds feature swimming areas in lakes or pools during summer months.
Hiking access: State forests and conservation lands surround many campgrounds. "Taylor Pond is not far and a great hike to bring both kids and pets," reports a camper about trails near Wilderness Lake Park.
What campers like
Spacious, private camping spots: Campers appreciate having room to spread out. At Charlie Brown Campground, sites are described as "very large and the owners go out of their way to make you happy."
Convenient firewood delivery: Several campgrounds offer direct-to-site service. A visitor at Peppertree Camping notes, "the gentleman and his family who own it are sooooo nice and they helped us a lot when it came to learning how to properly use our camper."
Unique sheltered gathering areas: Some campgrounds feature special group facilities. One camper highlighted Charlie Brown Campground's "pavilions that have a campfire pit and the roof is made so it takes the smoke straight up out of the pavilion yet is protective of those under the roof from rain."
Pet-friendly water access: Multiple campgrounds welcome dogs in designated water areas. "This campground was perfect for us and our dog. Bring your own kayaks or use the campgrounds free of charge," reports a visitor about pet friendly camping near Storrs, Connecticut.
What you should know
Seasonal population differences: Many campgrounds near Storrs balance short-term and long-term guests. At Waters Edge Family Campground, "This campground has very friendly owners and staff, nice sites and you feel totally relaxed when you stay there."
Varying bathroom facilities: Quality and maintenance differs between locations. Salt Rock Campground has "bathhouses are a bit outdated, but clean and functional. Good choice of campsites, from open to wooded, rustic to power and water."
Cash or alternative payment policies: Check payment requirements before arrival. One camper noted about Wilderness Lake Park: "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared."
Site levelness considerations: Some campgrounds require adjustment for comfortable setup. Salt Rock Campground offers "Sites that are a mix of field, shaded, and partly shaded," according to a recent visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Activity schedules: Family-oriented campgrounds often provide structured entertainment. Nickerson Park Family Campground has "nice spots on the Natchaug River in Chaplin, CT" where "the hosts were very accommodating."
Multiple water options: Campgrounds with varied water amenities keep children engaged. The Quarry Campground offers "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!"
Proximity considerations: Sites closer to playgrounds benefit families with young children. Waters Edge Family Campground provides "a nice lake to float on, a clean pool to swim in, activities every weekend."
Budget planning: Factor in activity costs beyond site fees. At Odetah Camping Resort, "From a massage at the Spa to a fun band by the lake, to Bingo night, mini-golf and awesome ice cream Sundaes... tennis & basketball games, immaculate bathrooms....every night we went to bed tired and looking forward to doing it all again the next day!!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup verification: Confirm exact hookup details when booking. At The Quarry Campground, "They advertise full hookups but turns out to be a lie when you pull in... all full hookups are given to seasonal customers. We did receive a pull thru with 50/30/20 and water."
Gray water management: Some campgrounds have specific policies. The Quarry Campground suggests "leaving grey tanks open" rather than providing sewer connections at all sites.
Site location options: Different areas within campgrounds offer varied experiences. At Salt Rock Campground, "Sites are a mix of field, shaded, and partly shaded" with some RV sites offering more privacy than others.
Seasonal considerations: Spring and fall camping require preparation for temperature changes. When camping with pets near Storrs, Connecticut during shoulder seasons, appropriate pet comfort measures should be planned.
