Camping in Connecticut

Rolling forests, sandy beaches, and rural retreats give campers options in the Nutmeg State.

93% (1131 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Connecticut

Star Hosts in Connecticut

12 top campgrounds in Connecticut

98%
(31)

Offsite Cabin Wassaic

1 site · Lodging60 acres · Wassaic, Dutchess
***PLEASE READ DESCRIPTION - NO RUNNING WATER NOV - MARCH*** Our *NEW* cabin is located on the top of a clearing in the mountains outside Wassaic. Enjoy swimming, hiking, chilling, fires and sunsets views without any light pollution or street noise. Designed as a retreat for the modern creative, the cabin is fully off-grid but features Starlink Internet, a compost toilet and heat / AC. We do provide 5 gallons drinking / cleaning water, but during the winter no sinks or showers are operable. Nearby towns (Kent, CT / Wassaic, NY) have awesome art, shopping and plenty of food options as well as easy access to the Appalachian trail and Macedonia state park. 15 minutes from the Wassaic metro north station, the cabin can be reach by taxi. The cabin is accessible by car, but may require a short hike in after heavy rain or snow. This cabin is part of the Offsite Camp family (www.offsite.camp).
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$195
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98%
(97)

Humble Farm with Simplicity

5 sites · Lodging, Tents3 acres · Higganum, Middlesex
Bring your family & friends to camp at our quiet and very modest small farm. Located in backwoods horse pastures with free range chickens, a dog, and a couple of horses. The property is very spread out and there is an outhouse for all sites to us. Your pets are welcome too! Locally there are state parks with beaches, and state forest for trails & lakes, hiking and biking. Or you can just relax and enjoy the serenity! Other attractions include local farmers markets, Gilette's Castle, and the famous River Ferry crossing the Connecticut River with a vehicle across to East Haddam. We cannot allow any wood for camp fires to be brought in form the outside for environmental reasons. It can be purchased for $12 per bundle. Farm Fresh eggs daily when available for $5.00 per 1/2 dozen. And there are also blocks of ice $5 for the large styrofoam cooler in grilling area next to horse trailer. Garbage removal is available as well $5 per bag provided.
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$49
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(160)

Mickelberry Forest Gardens

2 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Newtown , Fairfield
The meadow we occupy was once the farmers property that I grew up next to at my parents farm house.  When he wanted to sell his property he offered it to us for purchase at a fair price if we would not develop more than we needed to live here.  We maintained the meadow adjacent to our property and have kept it as an agricultural site.  We have had our son who is a permaculture expert develop an edible forest garden and a unique diversified small orchard so we can eat and share healthy organic fruits and vegetables while helping our environment and wildlife and educating others to do the same.  It is expensive to live in Newtown but we love our property.  We want to teach others to grow food from their land while helping to support us keeping our adjacent property agricultural and undeveloped.  Our property has provided many happy gatherings and events and we love to share it with others.  Let us know if there is anything special we can help provide for you.  Come visit Mickleberry!!!   Learn more about this land:Thank you to all the wonderful friends we have met through this amazing program.  We regret that our community at this time does now allow for "transient" renting of property and I unknowingly was operating outside of the zoning rules and regulations of our town.  Please continue to get outside and enjoy all the beautiful places and spaces this world has to offer and keep in touch.  We love you all!  Thank you for your support!   Bill and Amy Enjoy your stay next to our edible forest garden on the Edge of a beautiful meadow along side the orchard of berries, nuts  and fruit trees.  Various seasons will offer you an opportunity to pick your own breakfast in our maturing establishment.   You can enjoy exploring, and examining our 7 year permacultuire food forest with chestnut seedlings already tall enough to climb , 10-foot hazels bearing buckets of nuts and a different selection of raspberries, blackberries, gooseberry, currents, golden berries, service berries and Mulberries.      Enjoy a stroll   through the meadow trail to breath in  morning views and evening fireflies and stars.  This camp area is very private but household amenities are not far away if desired.  This site is much more private than Mickelberry Forest Garden Site and the beautiful mountain view is only a small step away.  One mile away we offer nearby blue mark trails, mountain biking, lake and outdoor activities are at your fingertips and your hosts will be happy to provide any assistance needed to find or enjoy these opportunities.  The Creamery (Ferris Acres) is one of the best farm ice cream shops in the East.  We can provide breakfast upon request from our free range chickens on our kiwi lined deck with beautiful mountain views.     Come and enjoy the croak of the bullfrog and the sound of the crickets.  We are new and growing our amenities so at this time check the overview for available amenities but you can guarantee we won't disappoint.  Come visit Mickelberry Forest Garden and The Meadow's Edge our newest most private site!!! 
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$60
 / night
86%
(14)

Lincoln Kirstein

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Weston, Fairfield
Private compound Close to Merritt Parkway and I95 1 hour from NYC Hidden off the main road 800 ft long single lane driveway Quite camp; peaceful with access to town center grocery and gas station 15-20 minutes to metro north train stations Flat parking for vans and small to medium size rvs Hiking trails and bike jumps on and right of the property 1-mile trail behind house to town center Beautiful birds chirping, wildlife, and nature You will love this spot
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$40
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99%
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Holiday Hill

3 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Mansfield, Tolland
A century old chicken farm that was turned into a summer day-camp and outdoor recreation center in 1958. Currently it hosts about 500 happy campers every summer and events on the weekends.
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$45
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(501)

Vernal Heights

6 sites · Tents70 acres · Colebrook, Litchfield
The Farm was built in the mid 1700's on the same track of land. Hike in or drive to your campsite.  Site #5 & 6 are accessible with a 4x4.  Site #3 is located in a blueberry field. It's car accessible but in close proximity to the Farm. Site #1 & 2 are Hike in sites(1/2 mile).  The farm is surrounded by thousands of acres of conservancy and preserve land. Enjoy nature at its finest!! Camp in a field of fire flies or a remote site surrounded by old growth trees and Mt laurel blossoms. This is a Nature Preserve!!  Please be kind to the Trees and Wildlife that inhabit the land!!
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$55
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(2)

Water Forest Retreat

3 sites · Lodging100 acres · Norwich, New London
This property has been in my family for three generations. It is classic Connecticut with hills and streams and stone walls. The octagon is a private 122 ft.² that is electrified and heated. It has a full size bed, cabinet and table with chairs. It sits next to a brook on 100 acres of forest with a pond, small waterfall, marsh and 2 1/2 miles of hiking trails. There is a fire pit and outdoor dining area next to the octagon. Out house with composting toilet close to octagon. A great place to rejuvenate in the forest!
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$130
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(17)

Adesa Farm

2 sites · Tents82 acres · North Stonington, New London
We live on a picturesque 82-acre farm in North Stonington, CT located near many serene natural areas. Pachaug State Forest, Ell Pond Preserve, and the Westerly, RI beaches are all within a 20 minute drive from us. Our land is secluded and rural, offering a respite from the hubbub of city life. We have a spring-fed pond on-site and the majority of our land is heavily forested. With very low light pollution, the night sky on our farm is breathtaking.
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$36
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(76)

Yurt Farm Stay

1 site · Lodging18 acres · New Milford, Litchfield
Our 18 acres has been farm land for hundreds of years. After many years of overgrowth, we homesteaded the property in 2012. We cut trees, milled wood and built our homes and barn. We live in harmony with our animals and our crops in a permaculture environment. We are just miles from many beautiful lakes, rivers and spectacular parks. Enjoy a farm stay in our luxurious yurt tent complete with queen size bed and outdoor shower. Meet the goats, cows, ducks, chickens and our pony, Mr. BoJangles, and have a walk around the acre plot of permaculture grown produce. Stop into the farm shop, The Shack and purchase some maple syrup, jam and whatever is in season. Plenty of things to do locally. Visit the many vineyards and breweries, take a cooking class at Hunt Hill across the street, visit the quaint NE towns such as Kent or Washington.We are following all Covid-19 standards and protocols and will maintain social distance. We are only offering two night minimum weekend stays so the amount of time between guests is maximized for cleaning and disinfecting. 
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$125
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94%
(16)

Tipi on the Ct River

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Chester Center, Middlesex
Included with your stay are: 6-10 pieces of firewood a night, a multi gallon water supply (for washing and extinguishing fire) a campfire grate, campfire ring, a screened in picnic table area and semi-private tented latrine. Makes it easy to enjoy some time “away” with all your basics. The woods you are enjoying are protected, please don't chop firewood, feel free to gather downed limbs. Learn more about this land: Enjoy our authentic tipi nestled on the edge of the CT River. Enjoy our Canoe, toss in a line, or just relax… Enjoy an escape from reality while being a stones throw from many great attractions. Gillette’s Castle, Essex steam train, Goodspeed Opera House, Eagles Landing and many more things to discover. A short walk up and over the railroad tracks leave you in a secluded oasis. We look forward to sharing our peaceful retreat with you! Don’t be surprised to be greeted by our rambunctious 3! We love to make new friends.
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$100
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(31)

Blackburn Farm

1 site · RV21 acres · Groton, New London
Learn more about this land: Secluded wooded farm site near small barn that is home to our three sheep, two fainting goats, and chickens. Immediate access to miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. 2 miles from Mystic Drawbridge. Close to Mystic Seaport Museum and Mystic Aquarium.
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$60
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(2)

"Bento" Winnebago in the Woods

1 site · Lodging14 acres · Moosup, Windham
COZY. Welcome! After years of head-scratching, my mechanical/design/building challenge is buttoned up and highly chillable. Say hello to Bento. Offering a respectable 120 SF, this glamping getaway is perfect for a quick reset in nature. You'll be hanging out in this charming off-grid box in your own private chunk of oak forest on a 14-acre farm. You've got windows for days, so enjoy the views while you finish that book. Sip a beverage of your choosing. Play cribbage, I won't be mad.
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$175
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Camping in Connecticut guide

What it lacks in size—this tiny New England state is just 110 miles in length—Connecticut makes up for in landscapes and rural charm. Whether you’re hiking part of the Appalachian Trail or the New England National Scenic Trail, cycling or horseback riding through the state parks, or kayaking and paddleboarding at the beach, campers will find plenty to entice them out of the city. While summer sees Connecticut’s beach resorts brimming with vacationers, New England’s rolling woodlands and epic hikes are most spectacular in fall, when the countryside is ablaze with autumn colors.

Where to Go

Litchfield and the Northwest

The sweeping woodlands and patchwork slopes of the Litchfield Hills afford some of Connecticut’s most enchanting views. This is the spot for fall foliage walks, leisurely bike rides, and trout fishing along the Housatonic River. Hop between the chocolate-box villages of Kent, Cornwall Bridge, and Litchfield; dine at farm-to-table restaurants; then park your RV or pitch your tent at Lake Waramaug State Park, Housatonic Meadows State Park, or Macedonia Brook State Park.

Fairfield and the Southwest

A ferry ride from Long Island and a short drive from NYC, coastal Fairfield fills up with weekending New Yorkers come the summer months. Check into a beachside cabin or seafront RV park at beach resorts like Stamford, Bridgeport, and Fairfield, or head inland to hike in the hills, admire the mansion houses and golf courses of Greenwich, or go glamping in the woods.

Hartford and Central Connecticut

While the state capital of Hartford is the biggest draw to Connecticut’s central region, pastoral farmlands, pretty villages, and state parks dot the banks of the Connecticut River Valley. The best camping options are in the state parks, whether you prefer a tranquil spot by the riverside in River Highlands State Park, boat-in camping at Selden Neck State Park, or exploring a medieval castle at Gillette Castle State Park.

Greater New Haven

Connecticut’s cultural capital and foodie hub, New Haven is famous for its prestigious museums, Yale University, and award-winning pizzerias. Hop between beach towns along the north shore of the Long Island Sound and you’ll find great family campgrounds, amusement parks, and sandy beaches, or pitch a tent right by the beach at Hammonasset Beach State Park. Further east, the white sand beaches of Rocky Neck State Park are a bird-watching hotspot, especially in spring.

Eastern Connecticut

You’ll find old-fashioned seaside resorts, and leafy country escapes in equal measures in south-eastern Connecticut’s Mystic Country. Once you’ve hit the beach and the seafront casinos, head inland to cruise the Thames River, drive the National Scenic Byway of Route 169, or fish and paddle at Mashamoquet Brook and Hopeville Pond state parks.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Connecticut, free camping options are limited. Most campgrounds and state parks charge fees for camping. However, there are a few primitive and dispersed camping options available in state forests, such as Pachaug State Forest and Nipmuck State Forest. Keep in mind that these sites usually have no facilities, and you may need to obtain a permit or follow specific regulations. It is always recommended to check with the local authorities for the latest information on free camping availability and regulations in Connecticut.

Yes, camping is allowed in several state forests in Connecticut. However, not all state forests offer camping facilities, and some may require a permit or have specific regulations. Some popular Connecticut state forests with camping options include: 1. American Legion State Forest - Offers campsites along the Farmington River with access to hiking and fishing. 2. Paugussett State Forest - Provides primitive camping options and access to hiking trails. 3. Natchaug State Forest - Offers camping at the Natchaug State Forest Campground, with access to hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. It's essential to check the specific regulations and requirements of the state forest you plan to visit before camping. You can find more information on the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection website.

Rules for campgrounds in Connecticut can vary depending on the specific campground or park. However, there are some general guidelines that apply to most campgrounds in the state. These include:

  • Reservations: For many campgrounds, you will need to make a reservation in advance. You can do this online or by phone. Some campgrounds may have first-come, first-served sites available, but it's best to check before you go.
  • Check-in/Check-out times: Check-in times are typically in the afternoon (around 1 PM or later), and check-out times are usually in the morning (around 11 AM).
  • Quiet hours: Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours, typically between 10 PM and 7 AM. During this time, campers are expected to keep noise levels to a minimum to respect the peace and quiet of other campers.
  • Alcohol: Alcohol consumption is generally prohibited in Connecticut state parks and campgrounds.
  • Pets: Pets are allowed in some Connecticut campgrounds, but not all. Be sure to check the specific pet policy for the campground you plan to visit. You can find a list of pet-friendly campgrounds in Connecticut here.
  • Firewood: To help prevent the spread of invasive species, campers are encouraged to buy firewood locally and not bring it from home. Some campgrounds may have firewood for sale on-site.
  • Trash: Campers are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash and belongings when leaving the campground.
  • Firearms and fireworks: The use of firearms and fireworks is generally prohibited in campgrounds.
  • Vehicle access: Most campgrounds have designated parking areas, and vehicles are not allowed to drive on grass or other natural areas.

It's important to check the specific rules and regulations for the campground you plan to visit, as there may be additional guidelines or restrictions in place. You can find more information about Connecticut campgrounds here.

In Connecticut, finding free RV parking may be challenging, as most campgrounds and parks have fees associated with RV camping. However, you may be able to park your RV for free overnight at certain retail establishments, such as Walmart, Cabela's, or Cracker Barrel, with permission from the management. Keep in mind that these locations are not official campgrounds and may not offer any amenities. For RV camping options in Connecticut, check out Hipcamp.

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