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Austin Hawes Memorial Campground in American Legion State Forest accommodates pets across its tent, RV, and cabin sites without additional fees. Campers note the campground's spacious, private sites that feel secluded while maintaining a small community atmosphere. White Pines Campsites also welcomes pets at its various accommodation options, including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, glamping sites, and yurts. Sites are laid out with adequate space between neighboring campers, though weekend activities can become noisy. Most campgrounds in the Winchester Center area maintain basic pet policies requiring leashes and proper waste disposal. Bathrooms and shower facilities stay clean and well-maintained at both locations, with Austin Hawes providing hot showers that campers particularly appreciate after outdoor activities. Campers browse The Dyrt when exploring the best sites near Winchester Center, Connecticut.
The Farmington River access at Austin Hawes Memorial Campground provides excellent opportunities for dogs to cool off during summer months, with multiple hiking trails accessible directly from the campground. The Henry Buck Trail offers pet-friendly hiking within walking distance of campsites. Bug spray is essential when camping with pets in this area, as reviewers consistently mention high mosquito activity and ticks throughout the season. Pleasant Valley General Store near Austin Hawes supplies camping necessities including live bait and fishing equipment. Both American Legion State Forest and the surrounding Peoples State Forest contain numerous pet-friendly trails with varying difficulty levels. White Pines features fishing opportunities at its small pond where pets can accompany owners, though some campers report occasional concerns about broken glass in certain areas that could be hazardous to dogs.
"We were passing through Connecticut and needed a place to crash. Loved this campsite! Very chilled and secluded in your own site. I liked that it felt like a litrle community but still quotr private."
"Hawes is one of the few campgrounds in CT that's dog friendly. The sites are nice and large, with room for trailers, and they also have a few cabin sites as well."
from $17 - $50 / night
Check Availability"However one issue was the garbage situation. Had to walk a long distance to throw out the trash."
"We got a tent spot and it was perfect since it was the furthest one away and there was no one near us which is probably why we loved it so much bc we were so isolated. a little disappointed in the site"
from $74 / night
Check Availability"Tons of kids activities to keep the little ones busy and great hikes around! Tons of waterfalls in the area and the highest point in Connecticut."
"I happened upon Lone Oaks Camp Site when looking for someplace to stay in north eastern Connecticut."
"However, we picked this place because it has an enclosed dog park. It does have an enclosed dog park but the fence is only 3 feet high."
"We stayed near the water. Clean private bathrooms were a plus. Clean pool but only 3 feet deep."
from $72 - $122 / night
Check Availability"The kids had a blast fishing and riding their bikes around. We are going to make this a yearly thing from now on!!"
"This is over the boarder in mass from ct We did a three month seasonal Site Staff is super nice and helpful We had a nice quite spot even though we where in the road to the lake"
"Tall pines, the sound of the mighty housatonic river, and some car noise on the nearby 2 lane."
"The Housatonic river is wide and shallow but good for soaking on a hot day and right behind pretty much every campsite. The riverside sites have a clear view, the others you walk through the woods."
from $17 - $50 / night
Check Availability"We arrived at the parking lot of Onion Mountain Park at around 2 pm and proceeded to get our bags packed for the hike."
"It’s up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take. However, it’s not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."
"People left their left over food scraps in the grass by my camp so not only has my dog been eating it, I also hear coyotes. Won’t be surprised if I see a bear in the morning.."
"Affiliated with Lake Compounce Amusement Park adjacent to campground."
"Trails are right near the sites so def scope out your spot before purchase. Has a full shower/bath and sink for washing very well kept and water pump rnot to far from the site."
from $17 / night
Check Availability"The campground also has a lake for swimming,trails for hiking, and some nice quiet areas for fishing. Well maintained bathrooms, with available showers, are also spread throughout the grounds."
"Beautiful state park, very clean .. fishing, lake swimming, hiking trails. Bathrooms, free showers .. stores within a 5 minute drive. Most of the camp ground site are not secluded .."
from $17 - $50 / night
Check Availability
ScoutWe have enjoyed our stay. Nice campground with lots of activities and things to do. However, we picked this place because it has an enclosed dog park. It does have an enclosed dog park but the fence is only 3 feet high. While this might be fine for some dogs, I have 2 young border collies that will jump that fence like it is not even there.
GuideMost amazing weekend with tons of woods (privacy is huge for us). Very friendly guests and staff! 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. Every one of us had a great time with the perfect campsite deep in the woods (still able to park my 26’ camper trailer). Swimming pool, great playground, among lots of trails and wooded area surrounding almost every site. Best camping weekends we’ve ever had have been at Waters Edge.
TravelerQuaint little campground. Not many tenting sites but along a beautiful lake. Pets allowed. Bathrooms close by 10, something to keep in mind. And they’re cash or check only! Taylor Pond is not far and a great hike to bring both kids and pets. This campground was perfect for us and our dog. Bring your own kayaks or use the campgrounds free of charge.
GuideMy first visit to New York state was amazing, largely in part due to my campsite at the Woodland Hills campground. I had a back in site and was having problems with my camper, and they were able to change to a pull through at time of check in. However, it was in early May and before the summer crowds. The pond has a fountain which sounds like a small waterfall at night, and wildflowers were in bloom. Very nice bathrooms and showers, and my dog loved the dog park.
TravelerI have camped here many times. There are three campsites; two that require short hikes (.5 miles and .75 miles, respectively) and a third that can be driven to. Each one is far away from the others. The two that are closest are still divided by several hundred feet of wooded area; you can hear if someone at the other campsite shouts loudly enough, but you can't hear normal conversation or see any lights.
There is no cell phone coverage at any of the campsites (if you care about that while camping).
All of the campsites are right next to the Shepaug River. There is a very crude outhouse between campsites #1 and #2, but none at #3. Each campsite has a designated fire pit, and the Steep Rock Association provides ample firewood. SR 1 and SR 2 both have picnic tables at them; SR 3 does not. Pets are welcome; there are many people hiking and camping with dogs, and people ride horses down some of the trails.
On 9/2/17, when camping at SR1, we saw a Dumpster on the side of the trail that leads from campsite SR1 to campsite SR2. I have never seen a Dumpster anywhere at Steep Rock before, so I don't know if that is a permanent new addition or if it was there temporarily.
Reservations are required and can be made by contacting the Steep Rock Association office during the week.
ScoutThis is a nice family friendly campground that makes for easy trips. There are a variety of sites available, from open field sites to more wooded and private areas. The campground also has a lake for swimming,trails for hiking, and some nice quiet areas for fishing. Well maintained bathrooms, with available showers, are also spread throughout the grounds. Not pet friendly unfortunately.
LegendLet me just start off by saying we did stay at the end of the season so the campground was quiet… But this is a stunning park and totally worth a stop if you’re traveling via hwy 84! They had such great customer service and the amenities are on point. 2 separate ponds: one for fishing, one for swimming; large outdoor games; Rec hall with video games, 50¢ pool table, live music; volleyball; boat rentals; and even a baseball diamond! (We picture kickball more than baseball happening here) Facilities were east to use and clean. Sites were wide open and easy to access, my only complaint being that they offer “full hookups” but you’re told to just leave your grey tanks open. We chose to wait and dump on our way out. If you’re a pet owner, you’ll absolutely love the dog run!
GuideWhile the Farm at Carter Hill offers a truly unique experience, it's important to note that this is a boondocking campsite. There are no electric or water hookups available for RVs. This might not be a concern for those well-prepared for self-sufficiency, but it's worth planning ahead to ensure you have enough power and water for your stay. The campsite is set up for easy in and out, making it a great option for RVers looking for a convenient overnight stop.
The farm boasts a prime location, just minutes away from the bustling junction of Interstate 91 and 84. Travelers seeking a quick and easy layover, this campsite proves to be a gem. The proximity to major highways makes it incredibly convenient to reach, whether you're passing through the area or looking for a unique spot to spend the night.
What sets the Farm at Carter Hill apart is the immersive farm experience it offers. My kids interacted with farm goats, ducks, and chickens, the farm provides an opportunity for a hands-on encounter. Feeding and petting the animals was a highlight, and our kids were absolutely enthralled by the experience.
The night we stayed, the farm played host to several live blues bands, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere. Food and drinks were also available and ensured that we had everything we needed for an enjoyable evening. It's worth checking ahead to see if any events are scheduled during your stay.
TravelerConnecticut is LACKING when it comes to outdoor activities when compared to some of the places around the country. That being said, it's more rewarding when you find a little gem like Wilderness Lake Campground.
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. We didn't need bathrooms, water or electricity, but there was a bathroom within walking distance. It also looked like they were building a little outbuilding for Women and Men's bathrooms near the tent sites.
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. Whether you have an RV, want to Car Glamp or looking to feel deep in the woods, this place checks all the boxes. It's also conveniently located off I-84(exit 70).
Winchester Center, Connecticut sits at an elevation of approximately 1,200 feet in the Litchfield Hills region. The area experiences distinct four seasons with snowfall averaging 50 inches annually during winter months, making campground accessibility seasonal for most locations. Summer nights typically cool down to the low 60s even after warm days, creating ideal camping conditions.
Hiking at Onion Mountain Park: This free primitive camping area offers access to several trails with varying difficulty levels. "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night. The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent," notes Nora S., who recommends securing food away from your campsite.
Fishing at Prospect Mountain Campground: Located just over the Massachusetts border, this campground provides excellent fishing opportunities. "The sites on the water looked nice- hoping to try for that next time!" shares Stephanie, highlighting the appeal of waterfront sites. The pond is stocked and accessible for anglers of all experience levels.
Amusement park access at Lake Compounce Campground: This campground offers direct access to Lake Compounce Amusement Park. "This is attached to an amusement park but far enough away not to be a bother," explains Diane R., noting the convenient location that's still quiet enough for camping. The campground offers a discount package for park admission when staying overnight.
Clean shower facilities: At Cozy Hills Campground, campers appreciate the well-maintained bathroom facilities. "Private bathrooms were a plus," notes Kim T., highlighting an uncommon amenity at campgrounds in the region. The facilities include individual shower rooms rather than communal shower areas.
Spacious campsites: Lone Oak Camp Sites receives consistent praise for generously sized sites. "The sites were large enough for RV," shares Ruth K., while another reviewer mentions there are "many types of sites to choose from." Site options range from wooded tent areas to open field RV spaces.
Pet-friendly environments: Dog friendly campgrounds near Winchester Center typically provide specific amenities for four-legged campers. Kim J. at Cozy Hills Campground points out they "picked this place because it has an enclosed dog park" though notes the fence height limitation of 3 feet for larger dogs. Most campgrounds in the area require leashing pets at all times outside designated pet areas.
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds near Winchester Center have limited connectivity. Katherine P. notes that at Austin Hawes Memorial Campground, there's "no cellphone service, which is either a good or bad thing, depending on how you feel about it." Prepare for disconnection or research locations with better coverage.
Insect activity: Bug protection is essential throughout the camping season. "In the summer, this place is mosquito central, so bring lots of bug spray or be eaten alive!" warns Katherine P. about Austin Hawes Memorial Campground. Multiple reviews across various sites mention ticks being prevalent from spring through fall.
Noise considerations: Weekend activities can impact quiet enjoyment. Brenda H. at White Pines Campsites experienced when "a large overnight party arrived, set up speakers and played loud music for most of the evening. So much for a peaceful camping trip." Weekday stays tend to offer more tranquility at most area campgrounds.
Pool options: Several family-oriented campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to natural water bodies. At Prospect Mountain Campground, Megin F. shares, "Pool was lovely and refreshing," though notes, "I do wish they had more bathrooms though. Especially by the pool!!!"
Kid-friendly activities: White Pines Campsites offers regular programming for children. "We love this campground. It is a small family/dog friendly campground. Large clean pool my kids loved swimming in. Staff is super nice. Small arcade," recommends Kim T., highlighting multiple entertainment options beyond hiking.
Playground access: Many campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas. At Cozy Hills Campground, the family amenities extend beyond basic camping. One reviewer notes they offer "Lots and lots of activities for kids! Arts & Crafts, Arcade, Bingo, Casino Night etc." These structured activities provide entertainment options during rainy weather.
Site selection considerations: At Cozy Hills Campground, site layout can impact your experience. Mike W. observes, "They pack us in pretty tight in some sites," suggesting researching specific site dimensions before booking. Look for end sites or those labeled as premium for additional space.
Hookup limitations: Check utility specifications carefully when booking. At Austin Hawes Memorial Campground, Andrzej K. notes, "We stayed right on the river side, No hook up, but they have a dump station," indicating partial services at waterfront sites. Most campgrounds in the region offer a mix of full-hookup, partial-hookup, and primitive sites.
Bathroom proximity: RVers without onboard bathrooms should consider site location. At Cozy Hills, a reviewer points out "bathrooms are very clean but very far apart," which can be challenging for families with young children or during inclement weather. Request sites closer to facilities when making reservations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Winchester Center, CT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Winchester Center, CT is Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest with a 4.4-star rating from 16 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Winchester Center, CT?
TheDyrt.com has all 106 dog-friendly camping locations near Winchester Center, CT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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