Camping in Winchester Center, Connecticut offers diverse options for RV travelers in the northwestern part of the state. The area sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in the southern foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, with a humid continental climate that brings colorful foliage in fall and moderate temperatures in summer. Winter camping is limited with most facilities closing between October and May due to the region's average annual snowfall of 60 inches.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Farmington River offers excellent trout fishing near Austin Hawes Memorial Campground. "Great campground for tent campers. Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots," writes Tom C. Catch-and-release regulations apply in designated areas.
Swimming spots: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming options during hot summer months. At Lake Taghkanic State Park, located 45 minutes from Winchester Center, one camper reported "the lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee to use your paddleboards/kayaks. Worth every penny." Many campers specifically praise the water quality.
Hiking trails: Access to trails directly from campgrounds is common. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, a visitor noted, "There is plenty of hiking access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day to fish on the water. There is a lot of hiking in the area—definitely check out Bash Bish Falls!" Many trails connect to larger systems for extended day hikes.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer separation between camping areas. At Austin Hawes Memorial Campground, a reviewer appreciated that "the sites are spaced apart nicely" and another mentioned "well spaced out lots, you have a lot of privacy." This contrasts with more densely packed commercial campgrounds in the region.
Clean facilities: Prospect Mountain Campground received praise for its amenities. "Very friendly and a great place for kids. Nice pool with time for adult only swim time," writes one camper. Another appreciated that "the grounds were absolutely beautiful and very well maintained! Pool was lovely and refreshing."
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds schedule weekend programs during peak season. At Prospect Mountain, a visitor noted they "have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing. They also have a nice little store and snack bar." These organized events typically run Memorial Day through Labor Day.
What you should know
Tent platform sites: Several campgrounds offer elevated platforms for tent camping, which provide advantages during wet weather. At Lake Taghkanic State Park, a camper explained, "This was our second time coming to this campground and our second time getting dumped on by the rain, but have no fear!! The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!"
Campsite variations: Individual sites differ significantly within the same campground. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, a visitor advised, "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."
Bug conditions: Insect activity varies by season and location. One camper at Austin Hawes warned, "In the summer, this place is mosquito central, so bring lots of bug spray or be eaten alive!" Ticks are also present throughout the region, particularly in wooded areas during spring and early summer.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Prospect Mountain Campground provides dedicated swimming areas. "They have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing," noted one camper. Another visitor observed that "kids had a blast" using these amenities. Most pools operate between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment. At Lake Compounce Campground, a reviewer mentioned, "They have a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball. Not to mention it's next to the amusement park." Playground equipment typically accommodates children ages 5-12.
Site selection for families: Choose sites strategically based on bathroom proximity and noise levels. At Lake Compounce Campground, a camper noted that "the sites were long so even though you face your neighbor, the sites were long enough that our door wasn't directly across from our neighbor." Request sites away from main roads if traveling with small children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: RV sites offer different configurations throughout the region. At Interlake RV Park, one visitor mentioned, "This year the most basic site with water costs $46; add electric on up to sewer and cable TV and you'll pay as much as $60/night." Pricing typically increases on weekends and holidays.
Site access considerations: Many older campgrounds have limited access for larger rigs. At Copake Camping Resort, a reviewer observed, "They also have a tendency to close one of the main roads in the campground for cornhole tournaments which...means anyone checking in may have to navigate through a really tight seasonal area to access their site." Call ahead to confirm access for RVs over 35 feet.
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet connectivity varies significantly between facilities. At Branch Brook Campground, campers reported, "Better wi-fi than most campgrounds. My wife and I both were able to work with mostly no issues, though there were some situations where it would go out." Most campgrounds offer wi-fi near office buildings, with signal strength decreasing with distance.
