Best Campgrounds near Washington, CT
The Litchfield Hills region surrounding Washington, Connecticut contains several developed campgrounds suitable for various camping styles. Lake Waramaug State Park Campground, located in nearby New Preston, provides lakefront campsites with tent, RV, cabin, and glamping options. Point Folly Campground at White Memorial Conservation Center in Bantam offers more rustic accommodations directly on Bantam Lake. Cozy Hills Campground, also in Bantam, features 178 sites with electric hookups and amenities for tent, RV, and cabin campers. Steep Rock Association maintains three primitive campsites along the Shepaug River for those seeking more secluded experiences.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from late spring through early fall, typically May through September or October. Lake Waramaug State Park Campground operates from May 26 to September 4, while Cozy Hills maintains a longer season from April 15 to October 15. Winter camping options are limited, with few facilities remaining open year-round. Cell phone coverage can be spotty throughout the region, particularly at more remote locations. Permits and reservations are generally required for all camping areas, and many sites fill quickly during summer weekends. "There is no cell phone coverage at any of the campsites. All of the campsites are right next to the Shepaug River. There is a very crude outhouse between campsites #1 and #2, but none at #3," noted one visitor to Steep Rock Association.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. Both Lake Waramaug and Bantam Lake provide opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and other water activities. Several visitors highlighted the peaceful atmosphere at Point Folly Campground, with one camper describing it as "Clean and quiet. Beautiful lake for swimming, kayaking or fishing." Family-friendly amenities vary considerably between locations. Cozy Hills Campground offers organized activities, a camp store, and recreational facilities, while state park campgrounds provide more basic amenities with greater emphasis on natural surroundings. The campgrounds closest to Washington tend to be more developed, while those in surrounding towns offer varying levels of privacy and natural immersion. Many sites throughout the region have fire rings, picnic tables, and access to potable water, though specific amenities differ by location.
