Camping near Weston, Connecticut offers a mix of inland forest and shoreline experiences with elevations ranging from sea level to 300 feet. Most campgrounds in the region experience a temperate climate with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. The region's proximity to both woodlands and the Long Island Sound creates diverse camping environments within a 45-minute drive radius.
What to do
Hiking trails: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides extensive trail networks for day hiking. "I believe there are over 40 miles of trails in this area. Would definitely recommend for those who want to camp near NYC but not drive too far," notes a visitor to Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming and boating options during summer months. At Wildwood State Park Campground, campers can enjoy beachfront access. "Beach is beautiful, very rocky, bring your water shoes, sunset scenery is beautiful! Kids were roaming freely and safe!" one camper advises.
Wildlife observation: Many parks feature designated nature centers and wildlife viewing areas. "Croton Point park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC. The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes," says a visitor who stayed at Mountain Lakes Park.
Stargazing: Some campgrounds allow after-dark activities. "There are open fields for stargazing," mentions one camper who visited Ward Pound Ridge Reservation. Clear nights offer good visibility for constellation viewing, especially in less developed areas.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campgrounds vary widely in site spacing and seclusion. "The sites are much farther away from the comfort stations than most campgrounds we have been to," explains a camper at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation about the spacing between facilities and sites.
Beach access: Shoreline campgrounds provide direct water access. A Croton Point Park camper shared that it's "a gorgeous camping ground right on the Hudson with beach and trails," adding that it has a "private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty!"
Platform sites: Some campgrounds feature raised tent platforms to improve camping comfort. A visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground noted, "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site."
Shower facilities: Clean bathrooms and hot showers rank high on camper priority lists. "The bathrooms are always kept clean and stocked and there are a ton of watering spots," reports a visitor to Kettletown State Park about the facilities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. "We stayed in site number 1, and I found it to be just wooded enough. Almost all of the sites offered privacy.... Even when the campground was full. Weekends - this park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" advises a Clarence Fahnestock visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds report regular wildlife visitors. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," warns a camper at Croton Point Park.
Site variations: Campground layouts and amenities differ significantly between sites. At Beaver Pond Campground, "The grounds are far too well trimmed, as you can see in one of the videos. There is wide open space and the paths are well paved so kids can have fun riding the bikes or running around."
Fire regulations: Fire policies vary by location and season. "Fires allowed" is common at most campgrounds, but some require fire rings or designated areas, and seasonal restrictions may apply during dry periods.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. A Blydenburgh County Park visitor mentioned it's "great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather," adding that their "hiking trails are beautiful. Dog friendly. Clean bathrooms."
Swimming options: Family-friendly beaches with lifeguards operate seasonally. "Beautiful Connecticut beach sits just steps away from your campsite. Well kept showers and bathrooms are abundant and the camp store has the majority of what you need," reports a camper about swimming areas.
Bike-friendly paths: Some campgrounds feature paved trails suitable for children's bikes. "There is wide open space and the paths are well paved so kids can have fun riding the bikes or running around," notes a visitor to Beaver Pond Campground.
Nature programs: Educational activities for children are available at select locations. "You can ride your bike from your site to the playground, store, beach, local ice cream shop, coffee shop, or our family favorite, meig's point nature center," shares a camper about structured programs.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV amenities vary widely between campgrounds. At Kettletown State Park Campground, "The campsites are varied, you can tent camp, use a camper, or they also have a few cabins you can rent. Be advised, there isn't a kitchen or bathroom in the cabins!"
Site dimensions: RV site sizes differ between parks, limiting larger rigs at some locations. "Ive been coming here for years. They have great sights and are open all year round. Ive stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping," shares a Ward Pound Ridge camper.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide sanitary dump facilities. "We stayed for 6 nights and it was great. Clean, friendly, safe and relaxing!" reports a visitor about overall RV facilities.
Seasonal restrictions: Some campgrounds limit RV access during shoulder seasons. "Clean park with a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present," notes a Croton Point Park visitor regarding seasonal limitations.
