Best Tent Camping near South Windham, CT
Tent camping options near South Windham, Connecticut include several riverside campgrounds and primitive sites set along the Connecticut River. Gillette Castle State Park Campground and Selden Neck State Park Campground offer tent-specific camping in scenic locations, with the latter requiring boat access to reach an island setting in the Connecticut River. Chapman Pond Preserve provides tent platforms and more primitive camping experiences, accessible via hiking trails rather than drive-up access.
Facilities at these tent campsites vary significantly, with most offering only basic amenities. Many of the riverside camping areas like Hurd State Park River Camping provide fire pits but limited additional services. Chapman Pond Preserve includes tent platforms, picnic tables and an outhouse with the Connecticut River visible from the campsite. Water access is limited at most locations, requiring campers to bring their own supplies. Several campgrounds permit fires where designated fire rings exist, though firewood must typically be packed in or gathered on site where allowed.
The primitive tent camping experience in this region emphasizes natural surroundings and water access. A recent review noted that Selden Neck State Park is "an island in the Connecticut River with no roads or development other than 4 campsites. You have to kayak or boat in." Sites along the water provide opportunities for swimming, fishing, and paddling, with several campers mentioning exceptional sunrise and sunset views. River Highlands State Park offers beautiful riverside tent sites though campers should be prepared for wildlife encounters. The region's tent campgrounds generally maintain a quiet atmosphere with minimal development, making them suitable for those seeking a more authentic outdoor experience away from RV camping areas.