Beach Camping in Connecticut: Best Beach Campsites 2026

With over 300 miles of coastline, Connecticut is the perfect place to experience beach camping. Whether you're looking for a stay at a camping resort or a private campsite with a beach, you're covered with a smattering of coastal towns. Campers enjoy seaside camping with access to quaint vacation spots such as Madison, Mystic, Stony Creek, Old Saybrook, and Westport, most of which come with beach camping and amazing New England seafood. Looking for wilderness? Visit a Connecticut state park such as Hammonasset Beach State Park, Rocky Neck State Park, and Lake Waramaug State Park, where you can enjoy kayaking, fishing, swimming, and biking. If mountains and forests are more your thing, drive out to the Western Highlands where hiking trails are abundant near Macedonia Brook State Park, Housatonic Meadows State Park, and Black Rock State Park. These state parks all offer sandy beaches, swimming, fishing, and hiking. Whether you're on the Atlantic Ocean or the Connecticut River, beach camping is abundant.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Connecticut

With over 300 miles of coastline, Connecticut is the perfect place to experience beach camping. Whether you're looking for a stay at a camping resort or a private campsite with a beach, you're covered with a smattering of coastal towns. Campers enjoy seaside camping with access to quaint vacation spots such as Madison, Mystic, Stony Creek, Old Saybrook, and Westport, most of which come with beach camping and amazing New England seafood. Looking for wilderness? Visit a Connecticut state park such as Hammonasset Beach State Park, Rocky Neck State Park, and Lake Waramaug State Park, where you can enjoy kayaking, fishing, swimming, and biking. If mountains and forests are more your thing, drive out to the Western Highlands where hiking trails are abundant near Macedonia Brook State Park, Housatonic Meadows State Park, and Black Rock State Park. These state parks all offer sandy beaches, swimming, fishing, and hiking. Whether you're on the Atlantic Ocean or the Connecticut River, beach camping is abundant.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Connecticut

1. Harbour House

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4 sites · RVs · West Haven, CT

A Direct Water Front Property adjacent to the Public Boat Ramp. Sweeping views of Long Island Sound. Power and Water hookup available. There is 3 miles of bike/walking path along beach. Bird Sanctuary and Walking distance to a new Tiki Bar / Pub/ With Live Music / Ice Cream and close to the legendary New Haven Pizza Joints. Use of house back patio with Adirondack Chairs for morning coffee sunrises or sunset cocktails. The main 3 spots are located in a 40ft driveway. The 4th spot next to the house is perfect for Vans.

2. Serene Shoreline Retreat Farm House

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1 site · Lodging · East Haven, CT

Escape to Healing By Growing (HBG) Farms in scenic East Haven, Connecticut, for a unique restorative overnight stay. Immerse yourself in the tranquil rhythms of our 0.10 acre suburban farm, where your visit directly supports our vital Agritherapy program for Brain Injury & Trauma Survivors. * Comfort with Convenience: Farmhouse downstairs space offering comfortable accommodations with full access to plumbing and electricity for added ease during your stay. Bring your own bedding, pillows, towels and toiletries Or we can provide it for you as on Add on for an additional fee.. Your HBG Farm Experience: What You'll See: * A Healing Farm in Action: Witness the daily life of our small-scale, diversified farm. Depending on the season, you might see planting in our fields and greenhouse, harvesting fresh vegetables and herbs, tending the land or our gentle animal husbandry practices. * Respectful Observation of Agritherapy: While the privacy of our program participants is paramount, you may observe from a respectful distance the peaceful activities of our Brain Injury and Trauma Survivors. This could include gardening, mindful beach walks just 3 minutes from the property, or nature-inspired creative projects. * Beautiful Healing Landscape: Discover the serenity of our farm, featuring a rain garden, a tranquil calming koi pond, a fruit orchard, and thoughtfully designed spaces that promote well-being. * Dedicated Program Areas: You'll see areas specifically created for our Agritherapy program, including accessible garden beds, quiet seating for reflection, and our outdoor covered classroom. * Sustainable Practices: Learn about our commitment to the environment by observing our composting systems, rainwater filtration, and other eco-conscious methods in action. * Proximity to the Shore: Enjoy the best of both worlds! Our farm is a mere 3-minute walk to the beach, offering a readily accessible sanctuary for relaxation, healing, and rejuvenation. What You Can Do: * Immerse in Beach or Farm Life: Unwind!

3. Desi Camping Adventures

1 site · Lodging · Stafford Springs, CT

Enjoy the best of both worlds with our 37' Winnebago motorhome, fully equipped with water, electricity, and a private shower. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, this escape has it all! Amenities include serene ponds for fishing, a swimming pool, playground, basketball and tennis courts, a recreational center, and weekend kids' activities. Perfect for families, outdoor lovers, or anyone needing a break. Book now and make unforgettable memories!

4. Rocky Neck State Park

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158 sites · Niantic, Connecticut

If you were (or have) the little kid who had the toy train setup every holiday season, you’re going to go ballistic over this place. Rocky Neck State Park is home to some of the country’s finest train watching. Kick back on the Long Island Sound, watch the railroad cars roll by and try to guess how many there are until the caboose.Of course, there are a whole lot of other things to do in this beautiful area. The beach here rivals the best in Connecticut, with soft white sand that makes it ideal for swimming. If you get tired of watching trains, you can watch birds instead. Osprey, cranes, herons and mute swans all frequent the marshes. So how about it? All aboard to Rocky Neck!

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5. Hopeville Pond State Park

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81 sites · Jewett City, Connecticut

A trip to Hopeville Pond State Park is like walking through one big painting. You could look in any direction, prop up an easel and create a masterpiece, assuming you have mad painting skills. Bob Ross would tear this place up.The wooded shoreline enshrouds the pond like a secret garden, and the ambience gets even more goosebumps-inducing when an early morning mist lingers over the waters. Benches are scattered around the pond for you to sit and contemplate life while staring out at the serene landscape. You can fish here too, if that’s how you prefer to find your inner zen. Meditation comes second nature here, so plan a visit any time you’re feeling on edge.

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6. Riverdale Farm Campsite

172 sites · Clinton, CT

Experience the charm of Riverdale Farm Campsites, a unique family vacation destination set on a sprawling 100-acre colonial farm in Connecticut. This hidden gem is perfectly situated between a picturesque country road and the tranquil Hammonasset River, offering a serene escape for nature lovers and families alike. Our campground features a variety of spacious sites, including wooded areas, waterfront spots, and grassy meadows, ensuring privacy and comfort for every camper. We provide essential amenities such as water, electric, and 3-way hook-ups, with the added convenience of new 50-amp electric service. For those new to camping, we offer on-site rentals that make it easy to dive into the outdoor experience. At Riverdale Farm Campsites, we pride ourselves on our outstanding recreational facilities, which are unmatched in the region. Our friendly and relaxed atmosphere allows you to unwind and enjoy quality time with loved ones. We focus on providing top-notch amenities and full services while avoiding the hustle and bustle often found at other campgrounds. Leave your worries behind and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Riverdale Farm Campsites. With nearby beaches along Long Island and a wealth of outdoor activities, restaurants, and shops, your vacation promises to be both enjoyable and memorable.

7. Macedonia Brook State Park

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51 sites · Connecticut

A trip to Macedonia Brook State Park is basically what the word “splendid” was invented for—blissfully scenic and impossibly pleasurable. Hiking down the Blue Trail, you can’t help but feel good about the world. Wipe that smile off your face, we dare you. It’s okay, we know you can’t.The Blue Trail, which is by far the main area attraction, meanders over Cobble Mountain and several other peaks, crossing a handful of babbling springs and streams. The views of the Catskills and Taconics are downright gorgeous. And don’t even get us started on fall colors. So go have yourself a splendid time at Macedonia Brook.

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8. Mashamoquet Brook State Park

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53 sites · Brooklyn, Connecticut

Like a J.R.R. Tolkien book, Mashamoquet Brook State Park is rich with legend and lore. The most famous tale is of Israel Putnam who, in 1742, crept into a wolf den and shot a wolf that had preyed upon local farm animals for years. That very same wolf den can still be visited in the park today, where you can craft your own tale of heroism.After you’ve saved the day, there’s still lots of the park to explore. The name Mashamoquet is Indian for “stream of good fishing,” so it’s no surprise the catches here are fat and frequent. Pull up a lawn chair by the water and enjoy a relaxing afternoon. When night falls, warm fires from the campground beckon. When day breaks, it’s time for a whole new adventure.

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9. Housatonic Meadows State Park

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61 sites · Sharon, Connecticut

The term “back to nature” is taken very seriously at Housatonic Meadows State Park. You thought an afternoon in the park was reconnecting with Mother Nature? Think again. For a real taste of unabated wilderness try visiting this place. One night under the stars on the banks of the Housatonic River will have you howling at the moon and starting fires without those sissy matches.Tucked away in the rugged hills of the northwestern uplands, a trip here will carry you satisfyingly far from any major metropolitan area. No four-lane highways and bumper-to-bumper traffic—this is the land of deer-crossing signs and single-lane bridges. You can fish the river, roam miles of trails and spend the night just steps away from both. No matter what time you visit, nature welcomes you.

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10. Kettletown State Park

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61 sites · Heritage Village, Connecticut

Summers get hot in the northeast. And muggy. We’re sweating just thinking about it. When it’s mid-July and Connecticut is threatening to burst into flames, Kettletown State Park is where people go to cool off.The refreshing waters of the Housatonic River and Lake Zoar are guaranteed to lower your body temperature and restore your energy levels. The rest of the park that isn’t water is heavily wooded, providing lots of welcome shade. Shoot, you could even go for a hike and not worry about overheating. It’s the perfect summer getaway from summer, if that makes sense. Don’t think about it too much, just go.

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11. American Legion and Peoples State Forests

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34 sites · Winsted, Connecticut

Tree huggers unite! This is the promised land. Consisting of two separate forests, the wooded bastions of Mother Nature rise tall and strong in these parts. Each tree is beautiful in its own way, but perhaps no trunk is better for squeezing than those in the 200-year old white pine grove in the Whittemore Recreation Area of the Peoples Forest. One can only hug so many trees, however, so it’s a good thing there are lots of other things to do in the American Legion and Peoples State Forests. The trails that wind through these wooded acres will keep hikers on their feet for days on end. And the waters of the wild and scenic West Branch of the Farmington River attracts kayakers and fishers from all over Connecticut and even neighboring states. But if you want to just come and squeeze an oak, no one will fault you.

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12. Hurd State Park

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1 site · Higganum, Connecticut

A riverfront park with nearly 1,000 acres of land, Hurd State Park is easily recognizable by a large split rock that towers above the trees. As one of only four state parks in Connecticut that offer primitive camping for boaters, the area is uber popular with small boat owners.Boat or not, visitors can also enjoy great views of the Connecticut River, hiking for all levels of expertise and mountain biking. While the long days of summer are probably the best times to take advantage of all this park has to explore, winter visitors can still park for a hike or cross-country skiing. If you’re a believer in variety as the spice of life, head on over to George Dudley Seymour State Park. It’s right next door!

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13. Lake Waramaug State Park

76 sites · New Preston, Connecticut

If there was a beauty pageant for all the lakes in Connecticut, Lake Waramaug wins, hands down. It’s not even a competition. Scenically, Lake Waramaug State Park is unrivaled. Being caught without a camera here is like showing up to potluck without a dish. You just don’t do it.When the fall foliage starts to peak, whoa. The sight of the vivid colors reflected in the unrippled lake surface is more beautiful than anything you’ve ever seen. Don’t let your significant other hear you say that, though. If you listen closely, you can hear the clicking shutters of a thousand photographers.

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14. Black Rock State Park

76 sites · Thomaston, Connecticut

Up, down. Up, down. Up, down…the rolling hills of Black Rock State Park would lull you to sleep in a heartbeat. That is, if your legs weren’t pumping and sweat wasn’t trickling down your face. With each crest of a wooded hilltop, the hiking gets even better, and more remote, too.Scenic views and cool waters put Black Rock high on the traveler’s list when the weekend rolls around. The western highlands of Connecticut don’t get much better than this. Ask any local—the Mattatuck Trail from the Grey section of Waterbury to the Wigwam Reservoir in Morris is one hike you don’t want to miss. At the very least, it’s a good place to start.

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Public campgrounds in Connecticut

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Rocky Neck State Park Campground

158 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rocky Neck State Park

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Hopeville Pond State Park Campground

81 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hopeville Pond State Park

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Macedonia Brook State Park Campground

51 sites · Tents, RVs · in Macedonia Brook State Park

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Hurd State Park Campground

1 site · in Hurd State Park

Housatonic Meadows State Park Campground

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Housatonic Meadows State Park Campground

61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Housatonic Meadows State Park

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Kettletown State Park Campground

61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kettletown State Park

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Mashamoquet Brook Campground

18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mashamoquet Brook State Park

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Wolf Den Campground

35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mashamoquet Brook State Park

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Austin F. Hawes Memorial Campground

34 sites · Tents, RVs · in American Legion and Peoples State Forests

Lake Waramaug Campground

76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Waramaug State Park

Black Rock State Park Campground

76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Black Rock State Park

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Hammonasset Beach Campground

559 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hammonasset Beach State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Xavier

November 2025

16 ft campervan

1 night at Harbour House

Easy to find, right on the water. Price is right. Not far from the highway.

J

Judy

October 2025

23 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Harbour House

Easy spot, close to boat ramp and park. Might be some noise at night and spots are close to each other, but fits the bill,

Stacey

October 2025

30 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Harbour House

Nice quiet place for an RV. We have a 31’ RV and had no troubles at all finding the place or parking. We’d definitely try to stay here again in the future.

P

Peju

October 2025

2 nights at Serene Shoreline Retreat Farm House

Dr Ivette’s farm house is cute and very comfortable. She goes over and above to make your stay comfortable. The farm is amazing and interesting. The beach is a few minutes walk. Definitely worth the trip.

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Linda

October 2025

24 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Harbour House

Felt secure and got a good night’s sleep. Wish our stay had been longer to allow us to see more of the area.

L

Laura

September 2025

25 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Harbour House

Good place to stay for a night or two… we liked being close to the water and having a place to walk our dogs.

D

David

August 2025

15 ft campervan

1 night at Harbour House

Great location. Easy access and rt next to town boat launch. Met some locals and watched people load their boats

N

Neil

July 2025

26 ft Class B

1 night at Harbour House

Nice place. Owner was very kind. Would stay here again if I'm in the area.

A

Amberly

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Serene Shoreline Retreat Farm House

It was so wonderful staying at Dr. Ivette’s place - my family and I had a great time! Very cute and comfortable and so convenient to everything. We’ll be back!

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Suzanne

July 2025

25 ft Class C

2 nights at Harbour House

Harbour House was a great find. Right off the 95. Rob let us know about the area. There is a nice bike route/walk on the water and a new outdoor restaurant and creamery, Riva, that just opened in the route. Walkable and very nice. We also sat in the patio for our morning coffee that overlooks the harbor. We would return and recommend Harbor House FYI: there is a Dump Station at I91 South Bound, Wallingford Rest Area https://maps.app.goo.gl/omAp4ijQXfjzsWC7A?g_st=ipc

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eric

July 2025

3 nights at Serene Shoreline Retreat Farm House

Wonderful trip! Made for a relaxing get-away. Dr Ivette was very hospitable

S

Suzanne

July 2025

25 ft Class C

1 night at Harbour House

Harbour House was a great find. It’s not easy finding spots off the interstate. We needed a spot on our way to NYC and this worked out well. We added two more nights. As noted, it is right next door to the public boat launch, but city maintenance keeps it cleaned up. Also the police monitor it on a regular basis. We would recommend Zuppardi’s Apizza. A local spot. We enjoyed it. We would come again.