Several RV campgrounds near West Mystic, Connecticut offer full hookup sites within a 15-30 minute drive of area attractions. Located in southern Connecticut near the Long Island Sound, this region experiences mild summers with average highs around 80°F and cool winters, making May through October the prime camping season. Most campgrounds in this coastal New England area maintain shorter operating seasons due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling opportunities: Newport RV Park provides excellent water access for paddlers. "We launched our kayaks north of the drawbridge in town at the public launch and paddled down to Mystic Seaport which was fun to see the historic boats from the water," shares one camper from Newport RV Park.
Dog-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer dedicated dog areas and nearby trails. "There is also a creek area for dog swimming. Our two labs loved it!" reports a visitor at Aces High RV Park. Another camper at Newport RV Park noted, "The nearby hiking trail was perfect for our dog and while it was just a few miles long, it was great because it was within walking distance and she could swim in the pond."
Nearby beaches and towns: Rhode Island beaches are accessible from several campgrounds. "We chose this park due to its location close to downtown Newport (a mere five miles)," mentions a Newport RV Park visitor. Another camper noted, "It's 20 minutes from downtown Newport and about 45 minutes to downtown Providence."
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Site layout and spacing varies significantly between campgrounds. "Pull through sites have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors. Sites and roads are a pea gravel material and each site has large grassy areas around it," notes a visitor about Aces High RV Park.
Natural settings with wildlife: Sun Outdoors Mystic offers a more natural environment according to campers. "Beautiful pond and natural setting with lots of ducks, geese, chickens, and wild birds," writes one visitor. Another mentions, "The grounds are clean and well maintained, the bathrooms and showers are spotless and newly painted."
Family-friendly amenities: Strawberry Park offers extensive family activities. "I love that I see the same staff there every year. There are seasonal and weekenders alike. Bingo every night, and more activities than you could possibly do!" shares one regular visitor. Another camper notes, "Six pools with adult only pool and splash pad for the kiddos. Basketball courts, pickle ball court, softball field... you name it they have it."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most RV parks operate seasonally. "We stayed for the Newport folk fest in 2021 and although expensive because you have to stay four days it was worth it," explains a Newport RV Park visitor, highlighting how special events affect availability and pricing.
Varied site quality: Site conditions vary considerably. "Our site (F4) had 30 amp and water. Satellite reception (Dish TV) was good and we were able to get a number of air antenna channels," reports one camper at Newport RV Park. At Sun Outdoors Mystic, a visitor noted, "Our site didn't have sewer, but the electric and water were working fine."
Reservation requirements: Booking patterns are important to understand. "Steve saved us honestly because we had no reservation here. By chance they had a cancellation," shares a grateful Newport RV Park visitor who found availability during a busy festival weekend.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Look for campgrounds with dedicated kids' spaces. "The kids ride their bikes to the sports fields, the rec center for the pool and activities. Oh and my young children LOVE the air pillow, they have spent hours on there," writes a parent about Countryside RV Park. Another camper shares, "When my family went here it poured! And we were thankful that there were so many things to do, painting ceramics, karaoke, an arcade."
Quiet campgrounds for families: Some parks emphasize peace and quiet. "We had a great time. Water, electric & sewer sites. Very quiet, rules are enforced. This is camping, if you're looking for entertainment bring your own!" notes a Countryside RV Park visitor.
Swimming options: Pools provide alternatives to beaches. "My husband loves playing volleyball in the adult pool, and I love the aqua robins every day," shares a Strawberry Park visitor, highlighting specialized pool activities for different age groups.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Site grading varies significantly. "The main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements, especially sites #216 and #217 (front to back)," advises a Newport RV Park camper. Another notes, "They also had a slight downhill slope so it required some extra blocks to level out."
Utility placement: Hookup locations differ between campgrounds. "Utility hookups were in great condition and everything worked as it should (other parks should come and take a look at how to do this right)," shares one visitor at Meadowlark RV Park, who appreciated the thoughtful utility placement.
Dump stations: Limited sewer hookups require planning. "Two easy dump stations with nice clean area," notes a Strawberry Park visitor. Another camper mentioned, "Gray water dump stations are spread among sites without sewer."
