Tent camping near Winsted, Connecticut ranges from walk-in forest sites to wilderness shelters along the Appalachian Trail. The region's mixed hardwood forests sit at elevations between 700-2,000 feet with summer temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby urban areas. Fall camping season extends through mid-October when nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F, requiring appropriate cold-weather gear.
What to do
Hike to summit views: At Mount Washington State Forest, campers access tent sites via a 1.5-2 mile hike on Alander Trail. "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots. Once you get there, there's quite a few sites to choose from and each offer quite a bit of privacy," notes Kay D. from Alander Trail Campground.
Train watching: The Chester Railway Station offers a unique camping experience where railroad enthusiasts can sleep in a caboose surrounded by tent sites. "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," shares Esther L. from Chester Railway Station.
Wildlife spotting: Campers should scan the forest for local wildlife while maintaining proper food storage practices. "There is also a bear box near that if you bring a padlock you can use it," advises Tina D. about camping at Laurel Ridge in Mount Everett State Reservation.
What campers like
Well-maintained wilderness sites: Campers appreciate the pristine conditions at backcountry locations. "Although we were the only campers at the time, the area was immaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere! The outhouse was even clean!" reports Liz P. about Alander Trail Campground.
Accessible beginner backpacking: Several sites offer shorter hikes suitable for those new to carrying gear. "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," explains Marshall S. about Onion Mountain Park.
Natural immersion: The quiet forest setting provides genuine wilderness camping. "We absolutely loved this little lean-to next to Bear Mountain... You will be in the heart of the forest/woods so definitely make sure to be prepared," advises Kay D. at Riga Lean-To.
What you should know
No fires allowed at AT shelters: Fire restrictions apply at several backcountry sites. "We ended up stumbling on this campsite on our way to the Riga lean-to, which was a very happy surprise... Firepits, toilets but that's about it. Leave NO Trace! We had a phenomenal time," notes Nora S. about Brassie Brook Shelter.
Prepare for challenging terrain: The area features rugged topography requiring proper preparation. "No matter where you start, you'll be hiking on some of the steepest parts of the Appalachian Trail in the northwestern Connecticut and southwestern Massachusetts," warns Tina D. about accessing Laurel Ridge Campsite.
Wildlife precautions required: Bears and other wildlife necessitate proper food storage. "We had some scares with coyotes and bears in the past but never anything crazy. They give you a semi-flat area for a tent, a fire pit and grill rack, one picnic table, and a bear box you would be sharing with other campers nearby," explains Kay D.
Tips for camping with families
Choose beginner-friendly sites: For first-time family camping, select locations with shorter access trails. "We found 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 (no group sites) but has a firepit already set up," advises Nora S. about Onion Mountain Park.
Quiet wooded sites: For peaceful family camping, consider sites with natural buffer zones. "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trails. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean," reports Sara R. from Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground.
Watch for insects: Families should prepare for local insect populations. "The campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river. As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)," cautions Alicia B. at River Highlands State Park.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The best tent camping near Winsted consists primarily of tent-only sites with few RV accommodations. "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 Brad N. from Sodom Mountain Campground.
