The best river, stream, or creek cabin rentals in Connecticut

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. Skunk Hollow

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1 site · Lodging · Ashford, CT

Secluded 30 acre lot with 3 cabins, two for sleeping and one is a kitchen cabin, fire pit and outhouse. Pond with paddle boat and brook on site. Access to hiking trails along the brook onto public land trust. Close to Brimfield, Westford hill distillery, Fenton Ruby wildlife reserve and other state parks. Enjoy dark nights and peaceful surroundings

2. 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.

3. Hidden Acres Family Campground

94 sites · Preston, CT

Hidden Acres Family Campground stands out for its secluded charm, offering a unique retreat that keeps families returning year after year. Nestled alongside the picturesque Quinebaug River, this campground provides the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you prefer lounging in the sun or diving into the refreshing waters, there’s something for everyone. For those who love fishing, grab your pole and cast your line into the river, where you might just reel in a trophy catch. The campground's natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal spot for outdoor activities, ensuring that your family can create lasting memories together. With its combination of privacy, scenic views, and access to nearby attractions, Hidden Acres Family Campground is a hidden gem that promises adventure and relaxation for all ages. Come experience the magic of this unique destination and discover why it’s a favorite among families!

4. 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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5. 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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6. West Thompson Lake

24 sites · North Grosvenor Dale, Connecticut

Famous bass and trout fishing and winter snowmobiling?! West Thompson Lake is classic Connecticut, with lots to do and real seasons that affect when you can do it. In addition to summertime anglin' and wintertime snow blasting, there's seasonal hunting and epic autumnal leaf displays. Once you're out here you'll have a hard time believing you're within two hours of Boston, Providence, and Hartford. You'd better believe there's hiking, boating, and camping of every type so the whole family can experience nature in the northeast within an easy drive of the city.

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Public campgrounds in Connecticut

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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Austin F. Hawes Memorial Campground

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

West Thompson Lake Campground

24 sites · Tents, RVs · in West Thompson Lake

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Housatonic Meadows State Park

Sharon, Connecticut

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American Legion and Peoples State Forests

Winsted, Connecticut

West Thompson Lake

North Grosvenor Dale, Connecticut

Other options in Connecticut

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.

Hidden Acres Family Campground

94 sites · Preston, CT

Hidden Acres Family Campground stands out for its secluded charm, offering a unique retreat that keeps families returning year after year. Nestled alongside the picturesque Quinebaug River, this campground provides the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you prefer lounging in the sun or diving into the refreshing waters, there’s something for everyone. For those who love fishing, grab your pole and cast your line into the river, where you might just reel in a trophy catch. The campground's natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal spot for outdoor activities, ensuring that your family can create lasting memories together. With its combination of privacy, scenic views, and access to nearby attractions, Hidden Acres Family Campground is a hidden gem that promises adventure and relaxation for all ages. Come experience the magic of this unique destination and discover why it’s a favorite among families!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best river, stream, or creek cabins in Connecticut guide

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.