Camping near Stratford, Connecticut offers options for RVers and tent campers within a 30-45 minute drive. The coastal region features mild summers with average temperatures around 80°F and winters that drop to the 20s. Sites fill quickly during peak season from June through October, particularly on weekends when temperatures are most comfortable for outdoor activities.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, you can access the 1.5-mile Pelton Pond loop trail directly from several campsites. "The site comes with a picnic table and a fire ring with removable grate, as well as a standing-level charcoal BBQ grill. This site and several others on the opposite (west) side of Pelton Pond had easy access to the 1.5 mile Pelton Pond hike loop," reports one camper.
Swimming in lakes: Rocky Neck State Park offers beach access within walking distance of campsites. "The campgrounds are named after water fowl: Crane, Egret, Osprey, Heron etc. Short walk to Rock Neck beach. Nature Center has movies on weekends for kids," notes a visitor who stayed in July 2020.
Amusement park access: Lake Compounce Campground provides a base camp for theme park enthusiasts. "This is attached to an amusement park but far enough away not to be a bother. If ever in the area again we will definitely stay again," shares one reviewer. The campground is part of Lake Compounce Amusement Park, making it convenient for families planning park visits.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Kettletown State Park, many campers appreciate the natural separation between camping areas. "It's a small camp ground and it's absolutely beautiful. The bathrooms are always kept clean and stocked and there are a ton of watering spots," notes a regular visitor who has been camping here for years.
Nature viewing opportunities: Aces High RV Park features pond-front sites with wildlife viewing. "Beautiful pond and natural setting with lots of ducks, geese, chickens, and wild birds. The whole park is quiet and nicely-maintained," writes a camper who visited in April. Another notes, "Well organized campground with both water front back in sites as well as large pull throughs. There is also a creek area for dog swimming."
Seasonal benefits: Camping during off-peak times offers quieter experiences. At Beaver Pond Campground, "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great. Would definitely return!!" a September visitor reports. Fall campers often mention the benefit of smaller crowds after Labor Day.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: While some parks maintain their facilities well, others receive mixed reviews. "The bathrooms weren't the best but we aren't picky," noted one camper at Beaver Pond. Another reported, "Bathhouses and toilets were not as cleaned as I would have liked but passable" at Rocky Neck State Park.
Seasonal closures impact amenities: Many parks have limited services outside peak season. One visitor to Rocky Neck noted, "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful."
Wildlife encounters: Proper food storage is essential at most campgrounds. At Beaver Pond, visitors are advised about bear activity. Another camper shared, "Be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping" since "wildlife do roam around your campsite."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "They have a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball," notes a Lake Compounce visitor. Another camper adds, "This is a really nice family campground. The sites are large and level."
Beach access considerations: Timing matters for beach visits. "Great Beach, but beware, it can be crowded!!!! So get their early if you do go to the beach," advises a Rocky Neck camper. Swimming areas may have seasonal bacteria issues that affect availability.
Site selection for groups: Choose connected sites when traveling with multiple families. "The sites can be a bit tight, at times," notes a Kettletown camper. Another suggests, "Sites are close together so recommend reserving two for more space. Good place for families and large groups."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary by park. At Totoket Valley RV Park, a visitor notes, "Small campground with good electrical, clean water, sewer and a friendly owner. Each site has grass and a picnic table." Several parks offer full hookups but charge premium rates for waterfront locations with utilities.
Site layouts for larger rigs: Level sites are crucial for comfortable RV stays. A camper at Lake Compounce noted, "The sites were long so even though you face your neighbor, the sites were long enough that our door wasn't directly across from our neighbor." Another added, "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded."
Dump station access: Most parks provide dumping facilities when sewer connections aren't available. "None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out," reports a Lake Compounce visitor. For extended stays, confirm sanitary dump location and hours before arrival.
