Camping options near Westport, Connecticut range from rustic tent sites to full-service RV parks within a 1-2 hour drive radius. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically from April through October, with limited winter availability. The area's proximity to Long Island Sound creates moderate humidity levels during summer months, with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Beach access: Croton Point Park offers a sandy swimming beach along the Hudson River with lifeguards on duty from Wednesday through the weekend. "The lake is clear and sandy (some rocks in sand on shore, but standard for imported sand), and many families seemed to have traveled up for a day trip," notes one visitor.
Hiking trails: The 1.5-mile Pelton Pond loop at Clarence Fahnestock State Park provides an easy walking path suitable for families. "Great hikes. The camp areas were secluded if you wanted more private camping (also super unique layouts) but there were plenty if you needed a quick stop over," according to a camper who appreciated the trail system.
Water activities: Multiple lakes and ponds throughout the region support fishing, particularly at Fahnestock State Park where "there is another lake and two ponds that our neighbor campers said were great for catching panfish - one fisherman said he had caught several bass weighing over 3 pounds!!"
What campers like
Train access: Several campgrounds offer proximity to MetroNorth stations for day trips into New York City. As one camper at Harriman State Park notes, "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint."
Off-season tranquility: Beaver Pond Campground offers a different experience outside summer months. "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great. Expect to purchase firewood, although scrounging for kindling was possible."
Site diversity: Many campgrounds feature varied site layouts and privacy levels. At Kettletown State Park, "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!"
What you should know
Train noise: Some rv sites near Westport, Connecticut experience noise disruption, particularly at Croton Point Park where there's "a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night."
Wildlife encounters: Multiple campgrounds report active wildlife. At Harriman State Park, campers receive specific warnings: "'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area."
Site selection: Research specific sites before booking as quality varies significantly within campgrounds. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site. This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Compounce Campground offers family-friendly amenities beyond typical camping facilities. "They have a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball. Not to mention its next to the amusement park," reports one visitor.
Swimming options: Beach facilities vary significantly by season. At Kettletown State Park, a camper noted that "when swimming is allowed, there isn't a lifeguard" while other campgrounds maintain staffed beaches during summer months only.
Space considerations: For families requiring more room, consider booking adjacent sites. At Kettletown State Park, one visitor recommends this approach: "Sites are clean and convenient. Sites are close together so recommend reserving two for more space. Well maintained and secure. Staff patrols for safety. Good place for families and large groups."
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Many rv parks near Westport have limited sewer hookups but offer dump stations. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, one camper described it as "convenient dump station if staying and needing to dump."
Site arrangement: Several RV parks feature unusual site configurations. At Lake Compounce Campground, "You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded. Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper."
Urban RV options: For those seeking proximity to NYC attractions, Liberty Harbor provides a unique experience. "It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig. Pluses, minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, liberty Science center."
