Best Campgrounds near Washington Depot, CT

The rolling hills and forests surrounding Washington Depot, Connecticut provide several established camping options within a 30-minute drive. Lake Waramaug State Park Campground in New Preston and Macedonia Brook State Park Campground in Kent offer tent, RV, and cabin accommodations set among the wooded landscapes of western Connecticut. Additional options include Cozy Hills Campground in Bantam with 178 sites for tents, RVs, and cabins, and Point Folly Campground on Bantam Lake, known for its waterfront sites.

Camping is primarily seasonal in this region, with most state park campgrounds operating from late May through early September. "The sites are much farther away from the comfort stations than most campgrounds we have been to," noted one reviewer about a nearby state park, highlighting the importance of understanding amenity locations. Private campgrounds like Cozy Hills typically extend their seasons from mid-April to mid-October. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends when facilities reach capacity. Most campgrounds provide drinking water, toilets, and fire rings, while amenities like showers, electric hookups, and dump stations vary by location. Cell service can be spotty in the more remote camping areas, particularly in Macedonia Brook State Park.

Macedonia Brook State Park receives high ratings from visitors who appreciate its natural setting and hiking opportunities along the park's trail system. Reviews indicate the campground is well-suited for teaching outdoor skills and wilderness appreciation. Lake Waramaug campers benefit from lake access with swimming areas and scenic views, though reviews mention the sites lack privacy during busy periods. A review of Lake Waramaug noted: "Sites are HUGE with easy access to the swimming area, but wouldn't even try to stay here on a weekend unless you like seeing/hearing your neighbors' every move as there is zero privacy." Throughout the area, campers should secure food properly as wildlife encounters with raccoons, skunks, and other animals are common at most campgrounds.

Best Camping Sites Near Washington Depot, Connecticut (114)

    1. Cozy Hills Campground

    9 Reviews
    Bantam, CT
    6 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."

    2. Lake Waramaug State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    New Preston, CT
    6 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 !"

    3. Kettletown State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Stevenson, CT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (203) 264-5678

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We love this State Park because it's close to our home for a quick getaway.  This time we tried one of the sites on the water, and I probably wouldn't choose the same site again. "

    "Semi private with great view and nice walks to the water. Noise was not a problem overnight as to having problems with noises neighbors at other CT state parks."

    4. Macedonia Brook State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Kent, CT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 927-3238

    $14 / night

    "teaching scouts of all ages how to take and prepare for the wilderness survival badges place is clean it has running water has a porta potty and festival you don't have to worry because the state of Connecticut"

    "Our camp spot was right above the river the flows behind this spot. You can go sit down by the water. But be careful!"

    5. Black Rock State Park Campground

    5 Reviews
    Thomaston, CT
    11 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."

    6. Point Folly Campground

    2 Reviews
    Bantam, CT
    7 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"

    7. Steep Rock Association

    1 Review
    Washington, CT
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (860) 868-9131

    "Each one is far away from the others."

    8. Gentiles Campground

    7 Reviews
    Plymouth, CT
    14 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!"

    9. Freedom Farm Homestead

    1 Review
    New Milford, CT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 508-1594

    $50 - $70 / night

    10. Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground

    1 Review
    Bantam, CT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 567-0089

    $25 / night

    "Quiet woods atmosphere with trail’s. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean"

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Recent Reviews near Washington Depot, CT

553 Reviews of 114 Washington Depot Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    New York City North-Newburgh KOA

    Good amenities and fun experience!

    Campsites Great campsites, wooded and cozy, though a little tight for longer rigs as our neighbors found out when they ran over a wooden post backing in. But spaced apart nicely with lots of vegetation between. Nice and level. Amenities Bathrooms are older and need of some repair but let me tell you I was very happy to see a normal shower head with real hot water! So no complaints here. Laundry facilities were clean and open 24/7 with reasonable prices 2.50/2.00 washer/dryer. And the dryers actually worked. Small dog park, communal spaces, and a camp store all made the place feel like a little village. They even have a wine store- cab sav was good. WiFi I work remotely and WiFi is always an issue. We have Starlink but in a wooded campsite, connecting is an issue but luckily their WiFi was great. Had no issues and could stream just fine. Halloween! We visited mid October and folks had sites decorated and the KOA has trick or treating and other activities every weekend in Oct. we were SO bummed to be leaving on a Friday and miss the festivities because it looked really fun. Would definitely go back. Also, staff was super nice.

  • 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.

  • S
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Sylvan Lake Beach Park

    Great Beach Lake for summer swimming and Boating

    This is an old campground, but is quite quaint. Reminds me of lake camping that I grew up with. Hosts are very nice and helpful. This is more of a seasonal camping site. Do not follow your GPS directions. Get directions from the campground staff.

  • Mindie C.
    Sep. 27, 2025

    West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area

    West Point

    No frills but beautiful. Bath houses are absolutely spotless. Fire pits, electric and water hook ups only. Will return! Staff is friendly and helpful. Military families should check it out!


Guide to Washington Depot

Western Connecticut's rolling hills and forests provide numerous camping options within driving distance of Washington Depot. The terrain includes wetlands, woodlands, and elevations between 500-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F, while spring and fall can fluctuate significantly with overnight temperatures sometimes dropping into the 40s.

What to do

Hiking trails: Macedonia Brook State Park Campground offers scenic paths with various difficulty levels, including a challenging mountain loop. "The loop hike over the mountains was good, at times more intermediate than beginner and I wouldn't try to go it with younger kids," notes one visitor who recommends taking the trails in sections.

Fishing opportunities: Cozy Hills Campground provides on-site fishing that's especially popular with families. "Kids caught about 20 fish," reports one camper who visited for a weekend. The campground maintains stocked fishing areas that don't require state fishing licenses.

Swimming options: Lake Waramaug State Park Campground offers lake access with designated swimming areas. While one visitor notes the swim area is "marginal - best for little ones," the lake provides other recreational opportunities like kayaking and paddleboarding.

What campers like

Private bathroom facilities: Kettletown State Park Campground receives positive feedback for its facilities. "The bathrooms are always kept clean and stocked and there are a ton of watering spots," mentions a frequent visitor who considers it a favorite spot close to home.

Family programming: Cozy Hills Campground organizes regular activities for children and adults alike. According to one visitor: "Lots and lots of activities for kids! Arts & Crafts, Arcade, Bingo, Casino Night etc. Pool is very nice for families - with no deep end, really safe for younger kids."

Affordability: Many campgrounds in the region maintain reasonable rates compared to other New England destinations. Sites typically range from $20-35 per night for tent camping, while cabins can cost $65-95 depending on the season and amenities. Weekly rates often provide 10-15% discounts over daily rates.

What you should know

Cell service limitations: Macedonia Brook State Park Campground has very limited connectivity. One camper notes, "No cell service," making it ideal for those wanting to disconnect but requiring advance planning for emergencies.

Wildlife precautions: Local campgrounds experience regular wildlife visits, particularly after dark. Raccoons, skunks, and sometimes bears visit campsites with food. One camper at Macedonia warned, "As we were walking back up to our tent there was a small bear within feet from us that we almost didn't see!"

Reservation timing: The camping season for most state parks runs from late May through early September, with weekends booking 2-3 months in advance. Private campgrounds like Cozy Hills typically operate from mid-April through mid-October, allowing for more shoulder-season options when state facilities are closed.

Tips for camping with families

Pool amenities: Black Rock State Park Campground provides family-friendly swimming areas. "Beach was nice, just a bit crowded," notes one visitor who stayed for nearly a week. The park maintains a supervised swimming area during peak summer months.

Site selection: When booking at Lake Waramaug, consider the layout carefully. A family camper advises, "Sites are HUGE with easy access to the swimming area," but notes that weekends get crowded with limited privacy between sites.

Terrain considerations: Many campgrounds in the region feature uneven terrain. At Kettletown State Park, a reviewer pointed out that "Site 11, while large, was uneven and had some large tree roots that would be easy to trip over." Bring leveling blocks and carefully inspect site photos when available.

Tips from RVers

Accessibility challenges: Point Folly Campground offers waterfront sites but requires careful planning. "The water front sites on the West Side seem to flood easily if it rains," warns a regular visitor who camps there twice yearly despite its rustic amenities.

Hookup availability: Most state parks offer limited electrical service (30-amp) with no water or sewer connections at individual sites. A reviewer at Cozy Hills noted they "pack us in pretty tight in some sites," suggesting larger RVs should call ahead to confirm site dimensions and access routes.

Dump station locations: Several campgrounds including Kettletown State Park and Black Rock State Park provide dump stations, but they can get congested during peak checkout times (typically 10-11am). Consider using facilities mid-week or earlier in the morning to avoid waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping areas near Washington Depot, Connecticut?

Cozy Hills Campground near Bantam offers convenient drive-in camping with reservable sites, water, and toilet facilities that accommodate RVs. For a more natural experience, Austin Hawes Memorial Campground provides secluded sites with a community feel while maintaining privacy among the trees. They sell firewood and ice on-site. Other nearby options include Black Rock State Park Campground (about 20 miles away), offering both drive-in and boat-in access, and Point Folly Campground on Bantam Lake. Wolf's Den Family Campground provides easy access to attractions like Gillette Castle and Goodspeed Opera House for those wanting to combine camping with cultural experiences.

What are the best hiking trails near Washington Depot, Connecticut?

Washington Depot offers excellent hiking options within a short drive. Steep Rock Association maintains beautiful trails with river views and historic features right in Washington Depot. For more challenging terrain, Macedonia Brook State Park Campground offers scenic trails with spectacular views from its summit trail that follows the Appalachian Mountain range. Just across the New York border, the diverse trails at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provide options for all skill levels, from easy nature walks to more strenuous hikes through varied terrain. Kettletown State Park also features shorter but picturesque trails along the Housatonic River, perfect for casual hikers looking for natural beauty.

What are the best seasons to visit Washington Depot, Connecticut?

Fall is the premier season to visit Washington Depot, with spectacular foliage transforming the landscape into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows from late September through October. Summer (June-August) offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities with warm days perfect for hiking and exploring Lone Oak Camp Sites, which provides access to numerous waterfalls and excellent stargazing opportunities. Spring brings wildflowers and moderate temperatures, though early spring can be muddy from snowmelt. Winter offers its own charm, particularly at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation where locals enjoy sledding at Pell Hill. Each season offers distinct experiences in this picturesque New England region.