Tent camping near West Simsbury, Connecticut offers primitive camping opportunities within the heavily forested hills of northwest Connecticut, where elevations range from 230 to 450 feet above sea level. The region experiences cool nights even in summer, with temperature drops of 15-20 degrees after sunset. Most camping sites in this area require some hiking to access and have minimal facilities, creating authentic wilderness experiences within relatively short distances from town.
What to do
Explore the Appalachian Trail: Several trail-accessible campsites provide access to Connecticut's 52-mile section of the Appalachian Trail. At Riga Lean-To, campers can access the trail and summit Bear Mountain. As one visitor noted, "make sure to hit the summit of Bear Mountain; incredible view!"
Enjoy riverside camping: Camp within view of the Connecticut River at Chapman Pond Preserve, which offers tent platforms and picnic tables in a secluded setting. A camper observed, "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view."
Practice survival skills: Many primitive sites around West Simsbury require proper food storage and water filtration techniques. The Alander Trail Campground sites come equipped with bear boxes, with a camper reporting, "They give you a semi-flat area for a tent, a fire pit and grill rack, one picnic table, and a bear box you would be sharing with other campers nearby."
What campers like
Natural privacy: The spacing between campsites at many locations allows for personal space. At Laurel Ridge, campers appreciate the seclusion after a challenging hike: "It's quite a hike to get to this dispersed campground, so be prepared! We packed on our backpacks early in the morning and arrived there mid-afternoon."
Clean facilities despite remoteness: Many campers note the well-maintained wilderness sites. One camper at Alander Trail Campground remarked, "Although we were the only campers at the time the area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere! The outhouse was even clean!"
Beginner-friendly options: Sites like River Highlands State Park River Campground offer accessible camping with scenic views. A visitor described it as "absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river."
What you should know
Bear presence is real: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation at most sites. At Alander Trail Camground, campers report, "You will be in the heart of the forest/woods so definitely make sure to be prepared. We had some scares with coyotes and bears in the past but never anything crazy."
Fire restrictions vary: Some sites permit fires while others prohibit them entirely. Check regulations before your trip. One camper at Laurel Ridge noted, "No fires allowed, however," despite the beautiful view.
Pack-in requirements: Most primitive sites require carrying all gear. A camper at Alander Trail Campground explained, "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For camping with children, select sites with shorter approach trails. At Brassie Brook Shelter, a camper advised, "You can park at the Undermountain Trailhead area. Once you hit the AT go to the right and it goes to the summit."
Pack for weather changes: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. One camper at Brassie Brook Shelter reported, "Our trip was sadly cut short because we were freezing and it was raining a lot LOL but hey it's part of the experience."
Consider unique accommodation options: For families wanting a different camping experience, Chester Railway Station offers a caboose accommodation. A visitor described it: "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too. You hear the trains running at night."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV camping: Most primitive camping sites near West Simsbury cannot accommodate RVs due to limited access roads. At Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground, sites accommodate primarily tent campers with a "Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's."
Consider state parks for RV options: Look to larger state parks within 30-45 minutes for RV accommodations. Sodom Mountain Campground has undergone improvements with new owners, with a reviewer noting, "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back."
Prepare for rustic conditions: Even at established campgrounds, amenities are basic. Most sites have limited or no electric hookups and minimal services for larger vehicles.
