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CampingMap showing campground location near Hadlyme, Connecticut

Selden Neck State Park Campground

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Selden Neck State Park encompasses an undeveloped island in the Connecticut River, accessible only by boat or kayak from Deep River Landing on the mainland. The park maintains four primitive campsites with basic amenities including picnic tables, fire pits, and private outhouses, though campers must transport all gear across roughly 20 minutes of open water.

Site 2, known as Hogback, provides flat tent space and emerges small beaches during low tide periods. River traffic generates some overnight noise from passing boats, while morning fog can temporarily delay departure times. Memorial Day through Labor Day requires parking permits at the mainland boat launch, and waterproof gear storage proves essential due to boat wake exposure during the crossing.

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**Reservations are required at this campground. Walk-ins are not accepted.**

All campers and visitors must arrive by canoe or kayak. No vehicle access available. Campers must break camp by 11am daily and all personal belongings and camping equipment must be removed from the site.

Location

Public Campground

Selden Neck State Park Campground is located in Connecticut

Detail location of campground

Directions

Island is only accessible by water.

Address

c/o Gillette Castle State Park 67 River Road
East Haddam, CT 06423

Coordinates

41.40059937284645 N
72.41129854973457 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

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Presented byHershey's

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • Electric Hookups
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • 30 Amp Hookups
  • 50 Amp Hookups

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time

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5.0

out of 5

1 Review

Jason S.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Mar. 28, 2024

Gorgeous riverside tent camping

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. 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. (Entering and parking at the boat launch requires a permit Memorial Day to Labor Day.)

It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island. 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. Once you get to the island, follow the bank north until you spot the sign for your campsite.  

My 5-year-old and I camped at site 2, Hogback. I haven't visited the other sites, but probably will just book this one again because it was so good. Plenty of flat area to pitch a tent, nice picnic table and fire pit. There's a private outhouse. At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on.

The sunset view was amazing. There was a little noise at night from boat traffic but it didn't keep us up. In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early. But it burned off before long and we headed back.

Site002 Hogback
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Selden Neck State Park Campground by Jason S., March 28, 2024
  • Review photo of Selden Neck State Park Campground by Jason S., March 28, 2024
  • Review photo of Selden Neck State Park Campground by Jason S., March 28, 2024
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Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities and amenities are available at Selden Neck State Park campsites?

Selden Neck State Park offers primitive camping with minimal facilities. The island features four designated campsites scattered throughout the undeveloped land. These sites are rustic with no electricity, running water, or modern amenities. Campers should prepare to be completely self-sufficient, bringing all necessary supplies including drinking water. The park maintains its natural state with no permanent structures or facilities beyond the basic campsites. Pack out all trash as there are no waste disposal services available on the island.

How do you access Selden Neck State Park for camping?

Selden Neck State Park is an island in the Connecticut River that requires water transportation to access. There are no roads or bridges to the island. Campers must kayak or boat to reach the campground. A convenient boat launch is located at Deep River Landing on the west side of the river, directly across from the island. You can park your vehicle at this launch point while camping on the island. Plan your trip carefully, accounting for river conditions and the equipment needed to safely transport camping gear across the water.

Do you need permits or reservations for camping at Selden Neck State Park?

Camping at Selden Neck State Park requires permits. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) manages these permits, which should be obtained before your visit. Since the park only offers four campsites, making reservations well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak summer months. Contact Connecticut DEEP for current permit information and to make reservations. Be prepared to provide details about your planned stay, including dates and the number of people in your party. Always verify current regulations before planning your trip.

What activities can you do while camping at Selden Neck State Park?

Selden Neck State Park offers a true wilderness island experience with numerous outdoor activities. Kayaking and boating around the island are popular pursuits. Hiking opportunities exist across the undeveloped island terrain, allowing for exploration of natural habitats. Wildlife observation and birdwatching are rewarding due to the island's isolated nature. Fishing in the Connecticut River provides another recreational option. The lack of development creates excellent stargazing conditions at night. Swimming is possible, though caution is advised due to river currents. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the unspoiled natural landscapes and river views.

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