The Woodbury Center area of Connecticut sits within the western uplands region at approximately 700 feet elevation. Most campgrounds near Woodbury Center remain open from May through October, with limited winter camping options. Sites in this region range from basic tent camping to full-service RV accommodations, with several properties located along rivers or small lakes providing fishing opportunities.
What to do
Hiking trails: Taconic State Park features numerous hiking paths ranging from beginner to moderate difficulty. One camper noted, "There are lots of trails to explore. Many unmarked," making it ideal for day adventures from your campsite.
Swimming and fishing: At Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground, visitors enjoy access to a clean beach area. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee to use your paddleboards/kayaks," explains one reviewer. The park also offers boat rentals for those who don't bring their own watercraft.
Historical sites: The FDR National Historic Site sits just 20-30 minutes from Interlake RV Park & Campground. A visitor mentioned it's "a must to see" with "quaint towns nearby" that make for pleasant day trips from your campsite.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground receives positive reviews for its maintenance. "The park rangers told us the plumbing had been re-done in the past year, so the water fountains and water spigots were in great shape and provided cold, clear water," shared one reviewer. Many campers appreciate the hot showers after long days outdoors.
Swimming areas: Kettletown State Park features a lake swimming area that's particularly popular. Though one visitor noted, "Swimming is allowed, there isn't a lifeguard," so families should plan accordingly when visiting with children.
Stargazing opportunities: Several campgrounds in the region benefit from minimal light pollution. One Lake Taghkanic visitor explained, "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low."
What you should know
Varied site quality: Site selection matters greatly in this region. At Prospect Mountain Campground, "Lots of trees and shade. Great pool. The sites on the water looked nice," according to one reviewer. Research specific site numbers before booking.
Seasonal crowds: Weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day fill quickly at most parks. One Fahnestock camper advised, "This park can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance."
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between parks. A Branch Brook visitor mentioned, "The pool and laundry areas were clean and seemed newer," while at other locations, facilities may be older or less maintained.
Weather preparation: The region experiences significant temperature variations. One camper at Lake Taghkanic noted the value of platform tent sites: "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!"
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Bear Creek Campground at Lake Compounce offers numerous family amenities. "They have a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball. Not to mention it's next to the amusement park," shared one visitor. The campground also hosts organized events throughout the season.
Space considerations: Families should research site layout before booking. One Kettletown camper observed, "Kinda close together sites, but the trails make up for it." Request sites away from main roads for additional safety with small children.
Swimming options: Prospect Mountain Campground provides pool access that families appreciate. "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing," mentioned one family who visited.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites near Woodbury Center, Connecticut vary in quality and service levels. At Totoket Valley RV Park, visitors find "good electrical, clean water, sewer and a friendly owner. Each site has grass and a picnic table," according to a recent guest.
Site layout: For larger rigs, Bear Creek Campground provides suitable accommodations. "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," explained one RVer.
Winter options: Most RV parks in the region close by late October. However, a Gentiles Campground visitor noted, "Was here for three months and it was during the winter and didn't have any problems." Call ahead to confirm year-round availability and winterization requirements.
