Tent camping near Voluntown, Connecticut centers around the nearby Arcadia Management Area and Connecticut River corridor. Campgrounds in this region span from primitive sites with minimal facilities to state park locations requiring boat access. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping season with higher humidity in July and August, making spring and fall camping potentially more comfortable for tent campers.
What to do
Kayak and canoe access: Selden Neck State Park Campground requires water transportation to reach its four tent sites. "It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island. If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags," notes Jason S. The Deep River Landing boat launch provides parking access, though permits are required from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Fishing opportunities: Buck Hill Campground offers waterfront sites where anglers can cast directly from their campsites. "The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water (including the 'beach'). This is the type of campground to just come and unwind, fish, cook, etc," according to Greg R., highlighting the campground's rustic appeal.
Sunrise and sunset viewing: Riverside campsites provide optimal conditions for watching both sunrise and sunset. "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. It is amazing with the views of the CT River and being able to watch the sunrise and sunset," writes Jackie G. about Gillette Castle State Park Campground.
What campers like
Island camping isolation: At Selden Neck State Park, campers appreciate the secluded island experience. "At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on. The sunset view was amazing. There was a little noise at night from boat traffic but it didn't keep us up," reports Jason S. about his experience at Selden Neck's Hogback campsite.
River proximity: Chapman Pond Preserve offers elevated camping platforms near the Connecticut River. Ben L. describes the site as having "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view," highlighting the preserve's primitive but practical facilities.
Multiple tent capacity: Buck Hill Campground accommodates larger camping groups with clustered sites. "All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents). Many of the sites are also along Wakefield Pond (big enough lake for canoe/kayak/etc," notes Greg R., making this location suitable for organized group camping events.
What you should know
Boat launch regulations: Access points for water-based camping require permits during peak season. For Selden Neck campers, Jason S. advises: "There's a boat launch across from the island on the west side of the river at Deep River Landing where you can leave your car. Entering and parking at the boat launch requires a permit Memorial Day to Labor Day."
Fog considerations: River camping locations may experience morning fog that can delay water travel. "In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early. But it burned off before long," recounts Jason S. about Selden Neck State Park.
Limited facilities: Most tent campgrounds near Voluntown operate with minimal amenities. Buck Hill Campground provides "a few rough restrooms and some porta-potties" according to Greg R., while Chapman Pond Preserve features "tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse" as noted by Ben L.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly water access: Shallow entry points at certain campsites accommodate younger children. "The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water (including the 'beach')," writes Greg R. about Buck Hill Campground, making it suitable for families with children who want to swim.
Island camping adventure: Selden Neck provides an opportunity for a memorable family camping experience. Jason S. shares: "My 5-year-old and I camped at site 2, Hogback. I haven't visited the other sites, but probably will just book this one again because it was so good. Plenty of flat area to pitch a tent, nice picnic table and fire pit." This demonstrates the site's family-friendly potential despite requiring boat access.
Multiple site reservations: For privacy when camping with multiple families, Gillette Castle State Park offers grouped sites. "There's a few sites close to each other, so it is nice to go with enough people to occupy them all at once to keep it personal," suggests Jackie G., noting that this approach provides a more controlled camping environment.
Tips from RVers
Day-use alternatives: RVers who prefer established campgrounds can utilize state park day areas for activities. "Great place for a hike or a picnic. Castle has tours at certain times," notes Todd J. about the broader Gillette Castle State Park area, suggesting RVers can visit while staying at more accommodating nearby campgrounds.
Limited RV accessibility: Most primitive tent camping areas near Voluntown lack RV facilities or suitable access roads. Buck Hill Campground is described as "heavily wooded without much else around and very few amenities," by Greg R., indicating challenging conditions for larger vehicles.
Seasonal considerations: RV travelers should note that many water-access campgrounds have permit requirements during peak season. Facilities like Deep River Landing, which provides boat launch access to Selden Neck State Park, require permits between Memorial Day and Labor Day, potentially affecting RV parking availability.
