Tent camping near Windsor Locks, Connecticut ranges from secluded riverside spots to forested mountain retreats. Most campgrounds are within a 30-mile radius of Windsor Locks, with the closest options along the Connecticut River. The region experiences typical New England weather patterns with warm, humid summers and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season. Campgrounds vary significantly in accessibility, from drive-up sites to paddle-in locations requiring boat access.
What to do
Hike to mountain vistas: At Brassie Brook Shelter - Bear Mountain, campers can access challenging trails with significant elevation gain. "Be prepared for steep inclines, and lots of rocks. After about a mile, you reach a trail intersection, stay left and continue up the hill until you reach the giant sign that reads 'Appalachian Trail - North and South'," notes camper Nora S.
Paddle to island camping: Selden Neck State Park Campground offers a unique camping experience accessible only by water. "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," explains Jason S. The paddle takes approximately 20 minutes across the Connecticut River.
Sleep in a caboose: For an unusual camping experience, Chester Railway Station offers both tent camping and a restored caboose accommodation. Esther L. describes it as "a really fun place to spend a night, especially for a train enthusiast. The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too."
What campers like
Riverside views and access: Campers consistently rate waterfront sites highly. At Selden Neck State Park, Jason reports, "At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on. The sunset view was amazing." The park features four primitive campsites spread across an undeveloped island.
Privacy and seclusion: Hidden Lake Farm offers just five tent sites, ensuring a quiet camping experience. The property provides drinking water, firewood, and basic amenities while maintaining a secluded atmosphere. "Quiet and Private" is how Ashley F. describes this small camping property.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural settings around Windsor Locks provide habitat for diverse wildlife. At River Highlands State Park River Campground, Alicia B. notes the campground is "absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river," though she cautions about encounters with "quite a few wolf spiders" in the outhouse facilities.
What you should know
Backcountry preparedness requirements: Many sites lack basic facilities. At Onion Mountain Park, Nora S. advises, "There are a lot of bugs so be prepared, and we did put a bear bag about 100 feet away." She also notes that despite being classified as walk-in camping, "it's definitely more of a hike" to reach the camping areas.
Water access considerations: Boat-in campsites require additional planning. Jason S. warns about Selden Neck: "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." Morning fog can also delay departures, so factor this into scheduling.
Reservation systems and timing: Many smaller campgrounds fill quickly. At Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground, sites can be reserved for longer stays, with Sara R. mentioning she "booked site 5 for the week" and enjoyed a "quiet woods atmosphere with trail's."
Tips for camping with families
Short hiking options for kids: Finding campsites with manageable approaches helps when camping with children. Jason S. reports success taking "my 5-year-old" to Selden Neck's Site 2 (Hogback), noting there was "plenty of flat area to pitch a tent, nice picnic table and fire pit" once they arrived by boat.
Scout-friendly locations: Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground provides an ideal setting for family camping with children or scout troops. The campground features hiking trails, picnic tables, and toilet facilities that accommodate group activities in a "quiet woods atmosphere."
Fire restrictions awareness: Fire policies vary significantly between sites. Marshall S. notes that Onion Mountain Park has been a reliable location where "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."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most tent camping sites near Windsor Locks have limited or no RV access. Sodom Mountain Campground has undergone renovations with Brad N. reporting, "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."
Campground improvements tracking: When considering RV options in this area, research recent upgrades. Brad N. mentions Sodom Mountain has new owners as of 2021 who are "adding a modern bathhouse by the pool and enlarging the pool area," transforming a previously neglected property.
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds near Windsor Locks operate seasonally. Check opening dates before planning trips, particularly for sites with water access, as boat launches may require permits "Memorial Day to Labor Day" as Jason S. notes about the Deep River Landing facility.
