Willington, Connecticut sits at 640 feet above sea level in the eastern uplands of the state. The area features rolling, forested hills with numerous small lakes and streams flowing through state forests and public land. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during daytime, with cooler forest camping areas typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding open areas.
What to do
Fishing at multiple ponds: Wilderness Lake Park provides fishing opportunities with easy shoreline access. "The lake was quiet and we saw kids swimming in it in the morning," notes one visitor who appreciated the tranquil setting.
Tubing on the Natchaug River: At Charlie Brown Campground, many campers enjoy river recreation. "Activities were still available with social distancing of course due to Covid. Close by was Taylor Brooke Winery which was the perfect place to while away a late summer afternoon," reports a camper who enjoyed the riverside setting.
Hiking nearby state forests: Multiple trail systems connect throughout the region. "Taylor Pond is not far and a great hike to bring both kids and pets," mentions one camper staying at Wilderness Lake Park, pointing out convenient nearby natural areas.
Free watercraft use: Some campgrounds provide complimentary water equipment. "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," reports a visitor to Wilderness Lake Park, allowing budget-friendly water activities.
What campers like
Wooded, private sites: The Quarry Campground offers secluded camping spots. "Many of the sites were secluded. The role we were in was not shaded and the campsites were close together. Maybe because we had full hook ups," notes one visitor, highlighting the campground's varied site options.
Firewood delivery service: Wilderness Lake Park makes camping more convenient. "They deliver wood to your site. It's a place to get away! I loved my time there," shares one camper who appreciated not having to gather supplies.
Proximity to local attractions: Brialee Family Campground provides a central location for exploring the area. "Deep in the woods. Great variety of activities. Swimming lake, canoeing lake, pool, playgrounds. Choice of shade in trees or open field," describes a visitor who found the location convenient for various outings.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "The cabin was absolutely beautiful and clean. The staff were friendly and helpful. The activities were great and kept my grand children busy," reports a Brialee Family Campground visitor.
What you should know
Cash or electronic payment only: Some smaller campgrounds have limited payment options. "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared," warns a Wilderness Lake Park visitor about their payment policy.
Varying site privacy levels: Different campground sections offer different experiences. "Tent sites are available but mostly RV/Campers. WiFi in common areas isn't great so if you're planning on working during some down time, this isn't the place," explains a camper at Brialee Family Campground.
Limited connectivity: Many campgrounds have spotty cell service. "There was no WiFi service as advertised and cell service was poor," reports a visitor at Brialee, indicating the area generally has connectivity challenges.
Weather considerations: The region experiences typical New England seasonal variations. "It would have been a wonderful trip, but unfortunately I was between a couple that wouldn't stop screaming at each other," notes a tent camper at Charlie Brown Campground, highlighting how proximity to other campers can affect your experience.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple swimming options: Waters Edge Family Campground provides varied water recreation. "There's a nice lake to float on, a clean pool to swim in, activities every weekend. I camp here seasonally and love it," states a regular visitor who appreciates the family-friendly water features.
Scheduled activities: Organized entertainment keeps children engaged. "Great Family Activities and contests. My family used to camp at this ground on an annual basis. There were all kinds of activities (kick-ball, etc) that everyone could participate in," shares a Brialee Family Campground visitor.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Multiple dog friendly campgrounds near Willington feature play spaces. "Amazing weekend with lots of fun for the kids and even the dogs! We've been to campgrounds with playgrounds worse than the waters edge dog park," reports an enthusiastic Waters Edge camper.
Proximity between campsites: Consider how close sites are when camping with children. "The sites are pretty cramped and don't offer for lots of activities to be done at your site," notes a Brialee visitor, which might affect families needing space for play.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal vs. weekend camping: Nickerson Park Family Campground offers varied stay options. "The hosts were very accommodating. We got a nice spot backing up to the river. Very secluded, clean sites. There was not sewer drains, but it's ok, they have a nice dump station on your way out," reports an RV visitor.
Hookup limitations: Not all pet-friendly campgrounds near Willington offer full-service hookups. "We chose a pull thru with 50/30/20 and water and that was about it, the site is spacious and we just don't think 'leaving our grey tanks open' is an adequate 'fhu' site," explains a visitor to The Quarry Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Sites were wooded and private and the lake is beautiful. Very conveniently located just off I-84," notes a visitor to Wilderness Lake Park, referring to the overall convenience despite some site limitations.
Space for larger rigs: Several campgrounds accommodate bigger RVs. "Nice spots on the Natchaug River in Chaplin, CT," mentions a visitor to Nickerson Park, indicating the accessibility for various vehicle sizes.
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