Tent campsites near Willington, Connecticut range from boat-accessed islands to walk-in preserve sites across state parks and rural campgrounds. The Connecticut River corridor features prominently in camping options with several state park campgrounds situated along its banks. Winter temperatures average 20-35°F while summer highs reach 75-85°F, affecting campsite availability and preparation requirements.
What to do
Paddle to island camping: Selden Neck State Park Campground requires boat access to reach its primitive camping areas. "It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island. If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags," advises one camper at Selden Neck State Park Campground.
Explore castle grounds: Set up camp near the historic Gillette Castle State Park for daytime exploration of this unique structure. "Great place for a hike or a picnic. Castle has tours at certain times," notes a visitor to Gillette Castle State Park Campground.
Fish freshwater ponds: Buck Hill Campground offers access to Wakefield Pond with fishing opportunities. "The area is heavily wooded without much else around and very few amenities. The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water," reports a camper at this basic, wooded campsite.
What campers like
Riverside views: Multiple campgrounds feature Connecticut River access and views. "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. It is amazing with the views of the CT River and being able to watch the sunrise and sunset," shares one visitor at Gillette Castle State Park.
Beginner-friendly sites: Some campgrounds specifically cater to those new to camping. "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it," notes a reviewer at Onion Mountain Park.
Primitive tent platforms: Chapman Pond Preserve offers established tent platforms with Connecticut River views. "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view. Good site," says a camper at Chapman Pond Preserve.
What you should know
Access limitations: Many campsites require specific transportation methods. At Selden Neck, "You have to kayak or boat in. There's a boat launch across from the island on the west side of the river at Deep River Landing where you can leave your car. (Entering and parking at the boat launch requires a permit Memorial Day to Labor Day.)"
Limited facilities: Most tent sites near Willington have minimal amenities. "Onion Mountain Park is classified as a walk-in but it's definitely more of a hike. We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night," explains one tent camper at Onion Mountain Park.
Wildlife considerations: Be prepared for natural inhabitants at campsites. "The outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)," notes a visitor to River Highlands State Park River Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Train-themed adventure: For families seeking unique accommodations, consider the railway station option. "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. Very clean and comfortable," shares a visitor to Chester Railway Station.
Pond swimming areas: Buck Hill Campground provides swimming access in a controlled environment. "There's a small somewhat sandy area that perhaps used to be a beach of sorts, though no lifeguards or anything. The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water."
Busy vs. quiet periods: Plan accordingly for crowds at more accessible sites. "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis," notes a camper at Onion Mountain Park, while another states, "Very busy, not a place if you want solitude."
Tips from RVers
Campground improvements: Some locations have undergone recent upgrades worth noting. "This campground has improved with the new owners as of 2021. All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back. Great Wi-Fi now, store has been redone and grands are much nicer," reports a visitor to Sodom Mountain Campground who stayed for a month.
Site sizing considerations: Most tent campsites in the region aren't suitable for larger setups. At Onion Mountain, "The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent (no group sites) but has a firepit already set up."
Weather preparation: Connecticut's variable climate affects camping conditions. "In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early. But it burned off before long and we headed back," shares a camper who visited Selden Neck with a 5-year-old.
