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Camping in Connecticut

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

94% (1087 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Connecticut

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12 top campgrounds in Connecticut

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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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Organic Green Farm Retreat

4 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · North Stonington, New London
Better Together CT Inc Farm and Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to re-integrating veterans and first responders through farming, fellowship and the arts. Through full community participation we offer programs for seniors and children as well. Our working farm produces Organically grown hemp and vegetables and offers a full line of products that are handcrafted with full spectrum CBD oil from hemp. Feel free to help us pick produce in the fields or rent paddleboards and explore The local spots. Our rescued therapeutic miniherd loves to have breakfast with our campers and enjoys therapeutic touch. Explore over 30 acres of hiking trails with nearby water access for fishing and swimming. This historic farm has been in the same family for generations and became a cornerstone of the Country Wellness Campus, the New England Center of Excellence for holistic medicine in 2018. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent in the forest or field in preparation for a unforgettable retreat! This location is central to multiple activities but in itself offers 33 acres of trails, Stonewalls and native serpentine designs; trails on our property lead to beautiful Tipping Rock, a local historical landmark and meeting place in the 1700s. You can stream out back for fishing, and for wildlife galore. 5 minutes down the road, you will find Sacred Lantern Hill which will challenge your hiking skills. Minihorses rescued a year ago will melt your heart and teach you about yourself. Kids will have a lifetime of memories after exploring nature and learning about self sustainability. You may swim at the beach 15 minutes away or visit surrounding New England coastal towns such as Mystic. If interested in the sweat lodge, please check the calendar for availability. Enjoy a package of wellness services such as the Floatpod Sensory Deprivation Chamber, Infrared Sauna, Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber, Halo Therapy, and Vitamin Infusions. Monday through Friday, we offer walk-in medical services by tele-medicine. Feel free to learn about farming hemp and organic vegetables with the team, and shop at the CWC Farm Store on the property for organic foods, CBD products and Native American Art. Enjoy the excellent restaurants located within walking distance or venture out to the casinos. Mohegan Sun Casino is 15 minutes by car and Foxwoods Casino is a 5 minute trip. Recharge your battery while supporting veteran programs through 501 (c)3 nonprofit Better Together CT Inc! 
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$50
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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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The Sandbox Campground

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Groton, New London
The Sandbox campground was born from The Sandbox Indoor Beach Sports and Events facility, which mainly focuses on providing year round beach volleyball. We bought the property in 2015 and opened the facility in 2019. As it happens, it's a 12+ acre lot surrounded by wetlands, hiking and biking trails ... there will never be another building built within view of our facility. We are surrounded by nature, and will be forever. So what a great opportunity to offer camping and access to all of the forests, woodlands, wetlands and trails around! And if you're up for it, come play some beach volleyball and meet new lifelong friends :)
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$60
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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
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Quarry View by Darlene &Dean

28 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Portland, Middlesex
This Historic National Landmark Brownstone Quarry was believed to be owned by Stone cutter James Stanclift and to have been the first European to live on the eastern bank of the river. In 1686, the town granted him “a parcel of land upon the rocks” in payment for his work as a mason; by 1686, he owned six acres of prime quarry land. We believe this is the same 6 acre lot. Now owned by Darlene and Dean who are preserving and restoring its hidden Beauty. Vintage CAMPING and Picnic area . Quarry View is a unique 334 year old Brownstone quarry that is listed as a Historic National Landmark. Here you will find natural springs that flow from what we call "The wall of water" down to one of our small waterfalls. We also have many artifacts including dinosaur tracks and carved dates in the stones in the walls that go back to 1887. There is a trail that leads back in time to an area with 80 foot brownstone walls left from the quarry operations. Here you can find a rear patio where a musician will enjoy the acoustics unlike any other. We sit 50 feet above the water upon the ledges that overlook the Brownstone Discovery and Adventure park below . (SITES ARE BASED on 2 adults children under 16 free) Contact us before booking with details of your party for help to book.
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$100
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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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(3)

Starlit Farm Camping

5 sites · RVs, Tents76 acres · Chaplin, Windham
Situated on a 76 acre farm, this camping area is set up with a few spacious campsites that include tents, a fire pit, various walking trails, cool lights to subtly light up the area at night, and on-site farm animals that will be seen throughout the property. Walmart and various convenience stores and restaurants within 5-10 minutes driving distance. Diana’s Poul (swimming hole) 5 minutes away. DoorDash delivers from various stores and restaurants. Portapotty available, must bring water and food. See campsite listings for full list of recommended items to bring on your trip
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$45
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98%
(57)

Fernwood on Alan F.’s Land

2 sites · RVs, Tents43 acres · Brooklyn, Windham
There are several options for setting up your tent. You will be the only ones at Fernwood, or Fernwood 2 unless we happen to be up working on the land.  No matter where you set up you'll have your own private fire pit, and level ground for your tent(s).  Come and enjoy a quiet retreat, or use Fernwood as a base for many outdoor activities-biking, fishing, hiking-all nearby.  Natchaug Forest offers great trout fishing.  Goodwin State Forest is less than 3 miles away by car where you can put in a canoe on Pine Lake, amble through the wildflower and pollinator gardens, or enjoy the Education Center and Museum. From Goodwin, you can access the Air Line State Park Bike/Hiking Path.  Hampton also has a general store that has simple food, frozen dinners that Kara will heat up for you, gifts, and awesome Ice Cream Sodas! ( https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946253543&mibextid=LQQJ4d )  If you want a change from all that nature, there is Sharpe Hill Vineyard less than 10 miles away, as well as We-Li-Kit IceCream less than 6 miles.  The route to either place will take you through beautiful scenic farmland.  We hope you enjoy our forest and the surrounding area as much as we do.
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$49
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The Hay House Farm

4 sites · Tents12 acres · Old Saybrook, Middlesex
Welcome to our charming retreat in historic Old Saybrook, Connecticut! Nestled in one of the state's oldest towns, dating back to 1635, our property offers a truly unique and enriching experience. Situated at the confluence of the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound, Old Saybrook boasts a treasure trove of historical and cultural gems waiting to be explored. Our pet-friendly and family-friendly haven is designed to provide you with a sustainable and rejuvenating escape. Embracing eco-conscious living, we're proud to offer a composting toilet, ensuring your stay has a minimal environmental footprint. Please note that we encourage guests to adopt eco-friendly practices, as our property does not have potable water. Pack out your garbage and leave this exquisite haven as untouched as you found it, allowing future generations to appreciate it! For adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, we're thrilled to announce that our retreat is conveniently located right by miles of well-marked hiking trails. Embark on an exploration of diverse terrains, from enchanting woodlands to breathtaking vistas. Prepare to immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Connecticut's outdoors. Experience the allure of Old Saybrook's rich history, indulge in delectable cuisine at unique local restaurants, and discover hidden treasures among eclectic shops. Whether you're seeking an unforgettable family getaway, a chance to unplug and unwind, or an eco-conscious adventure, our property is the perfect getaway for you.
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October Gardens Yoga and Meditation

10 sites · Tents25 acres · Harwinton, Litchfield
25 natural tranquil acres Old gold mining streams Hiking and walking trails throughout the property . Yoga in barn daily Meditation daily at 7:30 am Drum circles Located in the beautiful Litchfield hills Fall promises a beautiful show of colors In this quiet and tranquil space close to everythingLearn more about this land:A naturally beautiful tranquil space to find yourself or lose yourself ! FALL WEEKEND CAMPING YOGA RETREAT October Gardens in Harwinton Ct The Weekend of September 24th The peace and tranquillity of this space just lends itself for yoga, self reflection and meditation. Align your body, mind, and spirit with a weekend of camping, yoga, meditation, tarot, kirtan, drumming and chakra energy workshops. Along with gourmet vegan/vegetarian food in this amazing natural location! Octobergardens.com October Gardens Yoga and Meditation 132 Leadmine Brook Road, Harwinton Ct Weekend cost $275.00 What's included • Yoga sessions • Chakra workshop • Mantra meditations practices • Free time for hiking or personal time • Vegetarian or vegan meals • 2 nights accommodation • Saturday Night Kirtan/Drum Circle • 1 Qigong Practice •. Tarot Readings Yoga Styles •Kundalini • Vinyasa • Restoration • Vin •.Hatha • Whats not included • Tent and bedding for camping •. Towels RESERVATIONS Call/Text 860 605 5331 Octobergardens@gmail.com •. A reservation requires a deposit of 25% of the. total price • The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled less then a week before the retreat • The rest of the payment should be paid 3 days before arrival. We unfortunately cannot accept Pop ups or Rvs Tent camping only
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$30
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Cypress Grove

3 sites · RVs6 acres · Southbury, New Haven
Cypress Grove is a 6 acre residential property located in Southbury, Connecticut. Our secluded camping field ensures privacy for our guests away from our dwelling. There is a community fire pit for all campers to share and guests are welcome you to bring their own contained pit. Owners are 420 friendly!
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$50
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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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