The best lakeside camping in Connecticut

·

From the Atlantic shores to the Western Highlands, the New England state of Connecticut has a lot to offer in lakeside camping areas. Connecticut campers have many state parks to choose from, such as Hammonasset Beach State Park and Rocky Neck State Park in the eastern portion of the state, where you can find family-friendly campsites to kayak and be close to the water’s edge. Near Macedonia State Park, Kettletown State Park, and the nearby Pachaug State Forest, tent sites and rustic cabins await near biking and hiking trails. Lake Waramaug State Park is another perfect place for family-friendly lake camping in Connecticut, where swimming, fishing, and paddling await on its clear waters. Whether you’re looking for a camping resort with electric hookups, wifi, disc golf, volleyball court, and swimming pool or simple pet-friendly tent sites with a fire pit and picnic table, you can find the perfect lake camping getaway in Connecticut.

98% (357) 11 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Connecticut

Humble Farm with Simplicity

1. Humble Farm with Simplicity

96%
(213)
10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Higganum, CT
Bring your family and friends to camp at our quiet and very earthy and modest small family farm. Located in backwoods horse pastures with chickens, a dog, and a few horses. The property is very spread out and there are 2 outhouses for all sites to use. Your pets are welcome too! Locally there are state parks with beaches, and state forest for trails and lakes, hiking and biking. Or you can just relax and enjoy the serenity! OUR ADDRESS IS #200 NOT #204 Two parallel driveways THE DRIVEWAY TO THE LEFT FROM THE STREET IS OURS. Other attractions include local farmers markets, Millers Pond, Hammonassette State Park Beach, Gilette's Castle, with the famous River Ferry crossing the Connecticut River with a vehicle across to East Haddam at end of Rt. 148... We offer an hot H2O outdoor shower here for the comfort of out clients. It is located on the back of main house in corner. Entrance through gate is marked. Also See map in photos. We cannot allow any wood for camp fires to be brought in form the outside for environmental reasons. It can be pre-purchased for $12 per bundle on this site, or $10.00 cash here at farm. Farm Fresh eggs daily when available for $5.00 per 1/2 dozen. Blankets and pillows only are provided, NO LINENS for cabin or trailer sites only. Garbage removal is available as well $5 per bag provided.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$49
 / night
Mickelberry Forest Gardens

2. Mickelberry Forest Gardens

99%
(221)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Newtown , CT
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 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!!!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
Heaven Sent Barn!

3. Heaven Sent Barn!

98%
(21)
1 site · Lodging · Chaplin, CT
Probably the most stunning properties ever ! The sounds of nature abound as do the views. It is LUSH and a feast for the eyes any time of the day or night. Come and camp and experience The Barn! You will have life long memories! Forested hiking trails, bountiful rivers and watering holes, fishing, birdwatching, peace…stars and nature! Learn more about this land: AMAZING STUNNING PROPERTY! PRIVATE! PEACEFUL! Absolutely heaven sent! A place that will stay in your hearts forever. The property's backdrop is the lush James Goodwin forest where you can walk directly from to hiking trails. Fall asleep under the magnificent brilliance of the millions of stars, hear nothing but the sound of crickets, croaking frogs, hooting owls; see fireflies light up the night and fall asleep to the sound of the streams running right alongside the property. Watch the ariel acrobatics of the swallows swoop into the barn to feed their chicks! The two streams feed into the huge Natchaug River right across the street which is great for fishing, or spending the day at Diana's pool basking on the rocks with a picnic lunch. The area and property is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, small retreats, family gatherings all the while enjoying nature at its purest. We offer a Weber grill and large fire pit and outdoor picnic table with umbrella. You can either sleep in the barn, down in the clean stalls, or up in the barn loft. Bring supplies as if you are camping ie bedding, hammock, tent, sleeping pad or inflatable mattress. There is a long wooden table up in the barn loft that seats 14. There are games up there too, (dominos, cards, trivial pursuit etc). You may also camp outside under the starry skies. No loud music. Noise off by 10.30pm please We provide a VERY clean porta potty and the barn has electricity and running (cold) water. Bring a solar portable shower should you need.
Toilets
Campfires
Wifi
from 
$180
 / night
Kettletown State Park

4. Kettletown State Park

100%
(2)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Waramaug State Park

5. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Desi Camping Adventures

6. 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!
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$345
 / night
Retreat, Camp & Event Space

7. Retreat, Camp & Event Space

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Glastonbury Center, CT
Retreat-Style Open Space on 2 Acres Discover a peaceful, open-air setting perfect for gatherings, retreats, or creative setups. This 2-acre parcel, located in a quiet residential area, offers a versatile blank canvas for your tent, outdoor seating, or wellness-style retreat. Enjoy the natural surroundings and spacious layout — ideal for small group events, meditation circles, or private getaways. Please note there are no restroom facilities on-site; guests must bring their own accommodations and supplies. If you’re looking for a private, serene spot with plenty of room to create your own unique outdoor experience, this property is ready to host your vision.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
Black Rock State Park

8. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
West Thompson Lake

9. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

From the Atlantic shores to the Western Highlands, the New England state of Connecticut has a lot to offer in lakeside camping areas. Connecticut campers have many state parks to choose from, such as Hammonasset Beach State Park and Rocky Neck State Park in the eastern portion of the state, where you can find family-friendly campsites to kayak and be close to the water’s edge. Near Macedonia State Park, Kettletown State Park, and the nearby Pachaug State Forest, tent sites and rustic cabins await near biking and hiking trails. Lake Waramaug State Park is another perfect place for family-friendly lake camping in Connecticut, where swimming, fishing, and paddling await on its clear waters. Whether you’re looking for a camping resort with electric hookups, wifi, disc golf, volleyball court, and swimming pool or simple pet-friendly tent sites with a fire pit and picnic table, you can find the perfect lake camping getaway in Connecticut.

98% (357) 11 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Connecticut

Humble Farm with Simplicity

1. Humble Farm with Simplicity

96%
(213)
10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Higganum, CT
Bring your family and friends to camp at our quiet and very earthy and modest small family farm. Located in backwoods horse pastures with chickens, a dog, and a few horses. The property is very spread out and there are 2 outhouses for all sites to use. Your pets are welcome too! Locally there are state parks with beaches, and state forest for trails and lakes, hiking and biking. Or you can just relax and enjoy the serenity! OUR ADDRESS IS #200 NOT #204 Two parallel driveways THE DRIVEWAY TO THE LEFT FROM THE STREET IS OURS. Other attractions include local farmers markets, Millers Pond, Hammonassette State Park Beach, Gilette's Castle, with the famous River Ferry crossing the Connecticut River with a vehicle across to East Haddam at end of Rt. 148... We offer an hot H2O outdoor shower here for the comfort of out clients. It is located on the back of main house in corner. Entrance through gate is marked. Also See map in photos. We cannot allow any wood for camp fires to be brought in form the outside for environmental reasons. It can be pre-purchased for $12 per bundle on this site, or $10.00 cash here at farm. Farm Fresh eggs daily when available for $5.00 per 1/2 dozen. Blankets and pillows only are provided, NO LINENS for cabin or trailer sites only. Garbage removal is available as well $5 per bag provided.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$49
 / night
Mickelberry Forest Gardens

2. Mickelberry Forest Gardens

99%
(221)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Newtown , CT
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 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!!!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
Heaven Sent Barn!

3. Heaven Sent Barn!

98%
(21)
1 site · Lodging · Chaplin, CT
Probably the most stunning properties ever ! The sounds of nature abound as do the views. It is LUSH and a feast for the eyes any time of the day or night. Come and camp and experience The Barn! You will have life long memories! Forested hiking trails, bountiful rivers and watering holes, fishing, birdwatching, peace…stars and nature! Learn more about this land: AMAZING STUNNING PROPERTY! PRIVATE! PEACEFUL! Absolutely heaven sent! A place that will stay in your hearts forever. The property's backdrop is the lush James Goodwin forest where you can walk directly from to hiking trails. Fall asleep under the magnificent brilliance of the millions of stars, hear nothing but the sound of crickets, croaking frogs, hooting owls; see fireflies light up the night and fall asleep to the sound of the streams running right alongside the property. Watch the ariel acrobatics of the swallows swoop into the barn to feed their chicks! The two streams feed into the huge Natchaug River right across the street which is great for fishing, or spending the day at Diana's pool basking on the rocks with a picnic lunch. The area and property is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, small retreats, family gatherings all the while enjoying nature at its purest. We offer a Weber grill and large fire pit and outdoor picnic table with umbrella. You can either sleep in the barn, down in the clean stalls, or up in the barn loft. Bring supplies as if you are camping ie bedding, hammock, tent, sleeping pad or inflatable mattress. There is a long wooden table up in the barn loft that seats 14. There are games up there too, (dominos, cards, trivial pursuit etc). You may also camp outside under the starry skies. No loud music. Noise off by 10.30pm please We provide a VERY clean porta potty and the barn has electricity and running (cold) water. Bring a solar portable shower should you need.
Toilets
Campfires
Wifi
from 
$180
 / night
Kettletown State Park

4. Kettletown State Park

100%
(2)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Waramaug State Park

5. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Desi Camping Adventures

6. 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!
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$345
 / night
Retreat, Camp & Event Space

7. Retreat, Camp & Event Space

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Glastonbury Center, CT
Retreat-Style Open Space on 2 Acres Discover a peaceful, open-air setting perfect for gatherings, retreats, or creative setups. This 2-acre parcel, located in a quiet residential area, offers a versatile blank canvas for your tent, outdoor seating, or wellness-style retreat. Enjoy the natural surroundings and spacious layout — ideal for small group events, meditation circles, or private getaways. Please note there are no restroom facilities on-site; guests must bring their own accommodations and supplies. If you’re looking for a private, serene spot with plenty of room to create your own unique outdoor experience, this property is ready to host your vision.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
Black Rock State Park

8. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
West Thompson Lake

9. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field