Connecticut is LACKING when it comes to outdoor activities when compared to some of the places around the country. That being said, it's more rewarding when you find a little gem like Wilderness Lake Campground.
While this is about 60% RVs, the tent sites are great. The host gave us a secluded spot in the back to the point I didn't feel like I was at a campground other than the fire ring. We didn't need bathrooms, water or electricity, but there was a bathroom within walking distance. It also looked like they were building a little outbuilding for Women and Men's bathrooms near the tent sites.
The lake was quiet and we saw kids swimming in it in the morning. There was a hiking trail on the property and the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property. Whether you have an RV, want to Car Glamp or looking to feel deep in the woods, this place checks all the boxes. It's also conveniently located off I-84(exit 70).
While I prefer backcountry camping every once in a while car camping is required. In the case of this campground I’m not sure how it gets any better.
Our friends beat us to the campground and grabbed one of the platform sites that overlooks the small lagoon. The car is within 30 to 40 yards of the campsite making it easy to go back for supplies. This platform site we rented in the beginning of September was one of the best views I’ve had camping.
While I did not interact with the camp ground staff or utilize their facilities, I have recommended this to many friends who are going to Acadia national Park. If you had kids this would be a great location as we saw many families.
We biked from the Chester ferry to Devils Hopyard campground, at the north part of the park. We reserved by phone, site number five which ended up being a good spot. There are no neighbors to the right of the site but the porter potty‘s are right there.
There is no running water or electricity but the campground still served its purpose. The waterfall was a quick walk away and you could hike down to the river for a quick dip. The river isn’t deep enough for a full swim but still was good enough on a hot day.
There is a general store in Hadlyme about 4 miles away. Other than that there are not many options for food or supplies. A woman at the general store mentioned the campground recently reopened. Based on the hike we did around the state park it appeared a storm had ripped right through the area.
All in all, this car camping or bike camping campground was a solid option.