Camping near Willimantic, Connecticut offers accessible sites nestled within the northeastern hardwood forests of the Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor. The local terrain combines rolling hills with riverfront access points, providing campsites with varying degrees of shade and water features. Winter temperatures typically fall below freezing from December through February, limiting most glamping in Willimantic, Connecticut operations to the April-October season.
What to Do
Tubing on the Natchaug River: At Charlie Brown Campground, riverfront sites provide direct access to water recreation. "This was our first time visiting and my entire family enjoyed themselves so much, that we've already reserved a site for a few weeks from now. Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built in entertainment for the kids!" reports Michael.
Fishing opportunities: The 100-acre property at Wilderness Lake Park features multiple fishing areas. "The lake was quiet and we saw kids swimming in it in the morning. There was a hiking trail on the property and the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property," notes Robert L.
Weekend entertainment: Scheduled activities run throughout the summer at family-focused campgrounds. "Odetah Camping Resort called us today 24 hours prior to our arrival- after 4 years of camping there- to cancel our site unless we rented an RV and didn't use tents," reports Kerry G., highlighting the importance of confirming tent policies before booking upscale luxury camping experiences in the Willimantic area.
What Campers Like
Multi-generational appeal: The range of amenities suits different age groups. "Deep in the woods. Great variety of activities. Swimming lake, canoeing lake, pool, playgrounds. Choice of shade in trees or open field. Nice sites. Decent laundry and showers. Great place with kids.....lots of seasonal, but plenty short term," states Kimberly B. about Brialee Family Campground.
Quiet tent sites: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated tent camping areas. "While this is about 60% RVs, the tent sites are great. The host gave us a secluded spot in the back to the point I didn't feel like I was at a campground other than the fire ring," explains Robert L. about Wilderness Lake Park.
Holiday-themed weekends: Many campgrounds run special event weekends. "We went two years in a row each on Halloween! They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating. Very enjoyable time," shares Brian P. about his stay at Odetah Camping Resort.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Most luxury glamping sites require advance booking. "We chose the best spot for our first camping trip with our new travel trailer. Everyone assisted us and taught us the world of camping. Activities were still available with social distancing of course due to Covid," reports Ron C. from Charlie Brown Campground.
Cash payment policies: Some campgrounds operate on cash-only systems. "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared," advises Hails L. about Peppertree Camping.
Site privacy varies: Site separation differs significantly between campgrounds. "The sites are a little close, but with so much to do you don't spend that much time at your site," notes Happy Camper L. about luxury camping options in the area.
Tips for Camping with Families
Activity scheduling: Plan around organized events for maximum enjoyment. "They make sure the weekends are for families," says Linda L. about Brialee Family Campground, while another camper adds, "My family used to camp at this ground on an annual basis. There were all kinds of activities (kick-ball, ect) that everyone could participate in, a great play ground, and easy to navigate."
Swimming options: Multiple water features provide cooling opportunities. "The campground offers activities pretty much hourly for kids and adults to enjoy. Along with a pool, they also have a beach and a separate beach for dogs," reports Mallory P.
Playground facilities: Sunfox Campground provides multiple play areas. "This place is a dream. Stayed here for a month in the fall. Campground is situated in a beautiful valley with a little pond, hiking trails, playground, jumping pillow, swimming pool and hot tub," shares Claire M.
Tips from RVers
Varying hookup levels: Check electrical service details when booking. "There is no black water hookup, only gray water. You have to have them clean out the black or dump on the way out," explains Tracy D. from Highland Campground.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide dump stations for departure convenience. "New fence poles show renovations were consistently done. Two easy dump stations with nice clean area," notes Michael C.
Wood delivery service: Save time by ordering firewood on-site. "They deliver wood right to your site. It's a place to get away!" reports Anthony C. about his experience at Wilderness Lake Park.
