Best Campgrounds near Torrington, CT

Campgrounds near Torrington, Connecticut primarily offer established sites with varied accommodation options. Austin Hawes Memorial Campground in American Legion State Forest and White Pines Campsites provide tent camping, RV hookups, and cabin rentals along the Farmington River. Several properties, including Cozy Hills Campground and Lake Compounce Campground, feature full-service amenities with electric hookups, showers, and sanitary facilities. The region includes a mix of state parks and privately operated campgrounds, with most locations situated within forested settings approximately 5-15 miles from Torrington's center.

Most campgrounds in the Torrington area operate seasonally from April or May through mid-October, with limited winter camping options. The camping season peaks during summer months when facilities are fully operational. "We stayed at site 85 in Sunny Crest and liked having some privacy. The sites nearby had some trees providing space between each site," noted one visitor about White Pines Campsites. Road access to campgrounds is generally good with paved approaches, though some tent sites may require short walks from parking areas. Cell service can be limited in certain forested areas, particularly at American Legion State Forest where reviews mention no cell coverage. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays between Memorial Day and Labor Day when campgrounds frequently reach capacity.

Riverside camping represents a significant draw for visitors to the Torrington area. American Legion State Forest offers sites directly along the Farmington River, which several campers highlight for fishing opportunities. One review noted: "Excellent campground for tent campers. Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots." Privacy levels vary considerably between campgrounds, with state forest sites generally offering more seclusion than private campgrounds. Families appreciate the recreational amenities at White Pines Campsites, which includes a swimming pool and fishing pond, while those seeking quieter experiences gravitate toward the more natural settings of state forest campgrounds. Bug activity can be significant during summer months, particularly at wooded sites, with multiple reviewers recommending adequate insect protection.

Best Camping Sites Near Torrington, Connecticut (131)

    1. Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    13 Reviews
    Riverton, CT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0922

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We were passing through Connecticut and needed a place to crash. Loved this campsite! Very chilled and secluded in your own site. I liked that it felt like a litrle community but still quotr private."

    "Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots. Definitely need to come back. Great rates on all sites."

    2. White Pines Campsites

    11 Reviews
    Winsted, CT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0124

    $74 / night

    "However one issue was the garbage situation. Had to walk a long distance to throw out the trash."

    "We got a tent spot and it was perfect since it was the furthest one away and there was no one near us which is probably why we loved it so much bc we were so isolated. a little disappointed in the site"

    3. Cozy Hills Campground

    9 Reviews
    Bantam, CT
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 567-2119

    $72 - $122 / night

    "While this might be fine for some dogs, I have 2 young border collies that will jump that fence like it is not even there."

    "We stayed near the water. Clean private bathrooms were a plus. Clean pool but only 3 feet deep."

    4. Lone Oak Camp Sites

    12 Reviews
    Norfolk, CT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 422-2267

    "Tons of kids activities to keep the little ones busy and great hikes around! Tons of waterfalls in the area and the highest point in Connecticut."

    "I happened upon Lone Oaks Camp Site when looking for someplace to stay in north eastern Connecticut."

    5. Lake Compounce Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bristol, CT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 583-3300

    "Affiliated with Lake Compounce Amusement Park adjacent to campground."

    "It is adjacent to an amusement park so there were lots of families here. None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out."

    6. Black Rock State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Thomaston, CT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 283-8088

    $17 - $50 / night

    "Beautiful state park, very clean .. fishing, lake swimming, hiking trails. Bathrooms, free showers .. stores within a 5 minute drive. Most of the camp ground site are not secluded .."

    "The family next to me offered me dinner one night after I spent the whole day working on my RV. Spanish rice chicken the works the plate could barely hold it all."

    7. Skyridge Trails Campground

    1 Review
    Torrington, CT
    3 miles

    "Beautiful swimming pond and a serene fishing pond located on site. The outpost has anything you might have forgotten to bring and everyone is ready to make sure you are enjoying your stay!"

    8. Lake Waramaug State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    New Preston, CT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 868-0220

    $17 - $50 / night

    "My family has been camping at Lake Waramaug for over 20 years. I can say most of what’s been said is true or partially so but whether it’s bad or good depends on your point of view."

    "One of my favorite so far , went with family , to comply w covid and social distancing, the camp only rent your site and no one on your left or right or across ! Amazing !"

    9. Gentiles Campground

    7 Reviews
    Plymouth, CT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 283-8437

    $55 - $150 / night

    "Quiet CG near Waterbury CT. Close to major stores for resupply. CG has lots of friendly seasonal campers and lots of other sites."

    "There’s two brand new bathrooms on site one of which is conveniently located right by the pool. Owners are doing new renovations to make this place look good!"

    10. Point Folly Campground

    2 Reviews
    Bantam, CT
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 567-0089

    "The campground is right on Bantam Lake which is great for boaters/kayakers  fisherman and families.  I have found the east side of the lake to be much more windy than the west side of the lake.   "

    "Beautiful lake for swimming, kayaking or fishing. Small little island"

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Recent Reviews near Torrington, CT

567 Reviews of 131 Torrington Campgrounds


  • Sue B.
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    Great State Forest Campground

    Austin Hawes (also known as American Legion State Forest/Campground) is a great little place in a beautiful part of the State. They have cabins if you want some of the creature comforts, as well as sites suitable for tents or campers. Have camped here before in tents and a pop up, it's right on the Farmington River, so we have gone tubing down the river, swimming and fishing as well. The bathrooms have showers and flush toilets, there are hiking trails in and near the campground, and stores not too far. Sites vary in size and privacy.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Black Rock State Park Campground

    Nah

    If you want to feel like you are camping in the middle of a lawless low income housing project, this is the place for you. We camped next to a woman with 2 pit bulls, which was surprising, given the "no dogs allowed" rule, and were surrounded by people partying despite the "no alcohol" rule. Teens congregate in the bathroom so they could charge their devices but did not appreciate you being there to use the bathroom they clearly took over, and even though it's 2025, I still prefer no boyfriends hanging out in the women's bathroom. Call me whatever. Used to camp here years ago, clearly it has gone downhill. Park Ranger? What's that?

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Ten Mile River Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Not a public campground!

    Ten Mile River Shelter and campsite is not a public campground. Sure, anyone can camp there, but it is designated for folks hiking the A.T., whether thru-hikers, section hikers, or whatever. While there are no rules about who can camp there, during thru-hiking season, consideration should be made for folks who rely on places like this during a long distance hike. It is at least a mile if not a mile and a half from approved parking (on the side of the road off the A.T.) to camp, either from the A.T. or a combo of the A.T. and a blue blaze trail (which is easier, imo). There are also no fires allowed on the CT A.T.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    Great staff but back-to-back campsite

    We stayed a coupe of days in Oct. This is a beautiful site to camp out. The staffs are friendly and very attentive.
    Bathroom and water pressure was ok. But one shower location for 50 campsites. Three small showers units and three toilet.
    I never stayed a state campsite where the sites are so close each other. If you like a “normal” distance to your neighbors, I'd not recommend this place.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    Convenient pit stop

    This spot is easy to find and access, and had decent ATT service. There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Point Folly Campground

    Great

    I’ve been coming here for decades. Little store has what you need if you can find the shop keeper. Great access to bantam lake. You can leave you canoes/kayaks tied up in the water. Great fishing. Love it overall. The only issue I have is the pit toilets are brutal. If you are tent camping, beware!

  • Christine S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Cozy Hills Campground

    Quiet and clean

    So far it's been pretty quiet but we are here at the beginning of October on a Monday. Nice area.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    Average

    We stayed one night in late September without a reservation. Bathhouse is old but was adequate with hot showers. We’re from out of state and paid about $23 for a tent site which was reasonable for the facilities.


Guide to Torrington

Camping near Torrington, 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 choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: The area is known for its scenic trails. Many campers enjoy exploring the nearby hiking paths. One reviewer from North-South Lake Campground mentioned, "This is a hiking park... Kaaterskill Falls is an exception - short, easy trail."
  • Fishing: If you love fishing, you’re in luck! Campers at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds appreciate the fishing options, saying, "You’ve got fishing either in 2 private lakes or you can fish in the river."
  • Swimming: Many campgrounds have access to lakes or rivers for swimming. A visitor at Hammonasset State Park Campground noted, "The beach was popular," highlighting the fun of cooling off on a hot day.

What campers like:

  • Natural Beauty: Campers rave about the stunning surroundings. One happy camper at Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground said, "The campground has some great hiking trails and a cozy vibe in a beautiful part of NY."
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A reviewer at Clarence Fahnestock State Park mentioned, "Each of the campsites... has a lot of foliage around it, creating privacy between you and the site next to you."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate helpful staff. A visitor at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park shared, "The staff, Pat in particular, were warm and friendly."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at North-South Lake Campground noted, "There is NO cell service & just forget about WiFi. You are unplugged."
  • Bear Activity: Some campgrounds, like North-South Lake Campground, have bear sightings. One camper warned, "There’s a lot of bear activity here, so constantly cleaning up your food is very important."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Hammonasset State Park Campground advised, "If you are looking for a site it’s best to book far in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized 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."
  • Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A camper at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds mentioned, "The overflow area is very nice."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during peak times. A visitor at Hammonasset State Park Campground noted, "It’s loud, crazy busy & there’s traffic noise from the beach road."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds cautioned, "We were assured that it would fit... I had to drive off of the road on several occasions to make it through."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner appreciated, "We had full hookups with 50-amp electrical service."
  • Be Prepared for Check-In Delays: Some campgrounds can have long check-in times. A visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner mentioned, "It took 45-minutes to check-in."

Camping around Torrington, Connecticut, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does camping cost in Torrington, CT?

Camping costs in the Torrington area vary by campground type and amenities. At Wilderness Lake Park, a private campground with secluded tent sites and RV accommodations, expect to pay premium rates for the amenities and lake access. State parks like Macedonia Brook State Park Campground typically offer more affordable options, with Connecticut residents receiving discounted rates (approximately $17-25 per night for residents, $30-45 for non-residents). Private campgrounds generally range from $30-60 per night for basic tent sites and $45-90 for RV sites with hookups. Many campgrounds offer discounts for extended stays or off-season camping, and additional fees may apply for premium waterfront sites, extra vehicles, or guests.

What campgrounds are available in Torrington, CT?

While Torrington itself has limited camping options, several excellent campgrounds are available within a short drive. Black Rock State Park Campground in nearby Watertown offers drive-in sites with water and toilets, suitable for both tents and RVs. Lone Oak Camp Sites is another popular option known for family-friendly activities, hiking trails, and access to waterfalls and Connecticut's highest point. Other nearby options include Cozy Hills Campground near Bantam and White Memorial Conservation Center's Point Folly Campground on Bantam Lake. The northwest Connecticut region surrounding Torrington provides diverse camping experiences from state parks to private campgrounds with varying amenities and natural settings.

What camping amenities are available at Torrington campsites?

Campgrounds near Torrington offer a range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Wolf's Den Family Campground provides access to nearby attractions like Gillette Castle and Goodspeed Opera House, with sites suitable for RVs. At Austin Hawes Memorial Campground, you'll find secluded sites with a community feel, plus conveniences like ice and firewood sales. Most area campgrounds feature basic amenities including restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. Private campgrounds typically offer more extensive facilities such as camp stores, playgrounds, swimming areas, and scheduled activities. State parks provide more rustic experiences with hiking trails and natural attractions, though facilities like showers may be limited. Cell service varies by location, with better coverage typically available at private campgrounds closer to town.