The best river, stream, or creek camping near Shinnecock Hills

·

You’ll find over 220 riverfront campsites in Shinnecock Hills, with prices ranging from $1 to an average of $50 a night. Campfires are allowed at most spots, and showers and pet-friendly sites are common. Shinnecock’s river campsites put you close to hiking trails, fishing holes, and swimming spots—ideal for anyone who wants to stay near the water. Locals swear by Peconic River Campgrounds (301 reviews) for easy river access, while Organic Green Farm Retreat (73 reviews) and The Sandbox Campground (42 reviews) draw regulars for their low-key vibe and scenic spots to pitch a tent. You’ll see anglers casting off the banks, kids splashing in the current, and plenty of folks just soaking up the river air. If you want a spot where you can sleep steps from the water, this is where to start.

96% (477) 18 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Shinnecock Hills

Peconic River Campgrounds

1. Peconic River Campgrounds

95%
(669)
14mi from Shinnecock Hills · 24 sites · Tents, RVs
Grassy field. Natural woods. River accessible. We are located 30 minutes from Long Island, NY. Feel free to pitch your tent anywhere you like on the property. Choose the grassy meadow or the natural woods filled with trees. Have a campfire and enjoy nature. Bring fishing gear and cast away. Go for a relaxing walk on the 2,000 feet of walkable dikes right on the river. Bring your canoe or kayak and feel free to launch it right on site. Toilets and shower are available. Potable water available. Pet-friendly! Bring a bike and explore our dirt trails across the street. Or visit the man-made dam on Dam RD just 2 minutes down the road, where you can take a dip in the water. If you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle, look no further! It's serene, peaceful, and private. So come experience it for yourself! Nature awaits!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Zichichi Family Farm

2. Zichichi Family Farm

100%
(17)
49mi from Shinnecock Hills · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Your Quintessential New England Farm Getaway and, Outdoors Enthusiast's Paradise. Zichichi Family Farm Estate is located on 58 private acres in North Stonington CT. The property is in a very private and natural setting, yet very close to other amenities, including Foxwoods, Misquamicut Beach, Mystic Seaport, and Downtown Westerly. As a family farm we produce a wide variety of items on our property. Depending on the season, these items may include lamb, pork, produce, eggs, syrup, honey, etc… They can be purchased in advance or when onsite (subject to availability), we always recommend letting us know in advance if you are interested in something in particular so we can do our best to accommodate as we do sell out of items from time to time. The property features numerous hiking trails though fields and woods, a pond for swimming, boating, and excellent private fishing areas in the pond and brook; Fishing is catch and release only on the farm property. Barbless hooks are required (you can file them off, let us know we can help). Adults are fly rod only, Kids are fly or spinning rod. No is license required for the pond. The Brook requires an CT state fishing license and trout stamp to fish. Never fly fished... don't worry we can help. Check out addons below. Add On Packages (packages are not always available, please check before booking and reach out to us well in advance if you think you would like something specific) : Animal Meet and Greet, Property Tour (Hike), Guided Flyfishing, Campfire Service (we light it for you). Scouting America groups welcome and discounts available. Other arrangements will need to be made so please get in contact.
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$1
 / night
Water Forest Retreat

3. Water Forest Retreat

100%
(25)
46mi from Shinnecock Hills · 3 sites · Lodging
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 56 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. We also have a propane outdoor grill and propane two burner camp stove. Out house with composting toilet close to octagon is heated. A great place to rejuvenate in the forest! Dogs welcome.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$136
 / night
Rocky Neck State Park

4. Rocky Neck State Park

100%
(5)
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Selden Neck State Park

5. Selden Neck State Park

4 sites · Deep River Center, Connecticut
A 607-acre island park bordered by Selden Creek on the east and the Connecticut River to the west, Selden Neck State Park is about one half mile wide and one and a half miles long. Aside from a few tidal marshes, it is completely blanketed with lush woodland vegetation.Unique for being one of the few places in Connecticut offering boating campsites, visitors can also partake in many traditional camping activities during their visit. The lookout points from the trails are highly recommended and will make you totally understand why the Nature Conservancy dubbed the lower Connecticut River as one of “America’s Last Great Places.”
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
The Sandbox Campground

6. The Sandbox Campground

91%
(76)
41mi from Shinnecock Hills · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 :)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
Riverdale Farm Campsite

7. Riverdale Farm Campsite

30mi from Shinnecock Hills · 172 sites
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.
Gillette Castle State Park

8. Gillette Castle State Park

1 site · Chester Center, Connecticut
Straddling the towns of East Haddam and Lyme, Gillette Castle State Park receives a whopping 300,000 visitors each year. But then again, that’s just kinda what happens when you have a flippin’ medieval castle here. The landmark castle was once a private residence commissioned and designed by actor, director and playwright William Gillette, known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes.Besides touring the castle and its museum, the park entertains many traditional recreational opportunities, but also some far less common ones too. It’s one of the few places in the state where you can river camp, and in honor of its history, still hosts many theatrical celebrations. It’s elementary dear reader, why you won’t want to skip over this one.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Devil's Hopyard State Park

9. Devil's Hopyard State Park

63%
(4)
22 sites · Moodus, Connecticut
Devil’s Hopyard got its name from a couple of different stories, although it does sounds like a great name for a delicious india pale ale. The Hopyard part is in fact believed to have origins tracing back to a farmer who grew hops for brewing near Chapman Falls, the main attraction of this area. The Devil part likely comes from early settlers who tried to explain away the unique potholes in the stone around the waterfall with the supernatural.These potholes are actually perfectly explainable by science, go figure. As stones moved down stream, some would occasionally get trapped in an eddy, causing them to swirl around and erode the rock. The devil story is much more interesting though, which claims that the devil accidentally got his tail wet one day and was so angry, he burned holes in the stones with his hooves. Guess you'll have to go see it for yourself and make up your own mind on what truly happened. While you're there, make sure to check out the awesome hiking, fishing and mountain biking in the area. Devil's Hopyard State Park is just as full of outdoor activities as it is with history.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hurd State Park

10. Hurd State Park

100%
(1)
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!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets

You’ll find over 220 riverfront campsites in Shinnecock Hills, with prices ranging from $1 to an average of $50 a night. Campfires are allowed at most spots, and showers and pet-friendly sites are common. Shinnecock’s river campsites put you close to hiking trails, fishing holes, and swimming spots—ideal for anyone who wants to stay near the water. Locals swear by Peconic River Campgrounds (301 reviews) for easy river access, while Organic Green Farm Retreat (73 reviews) and The Sandbox Campground (42 reviews) draw regulars for their low-key vibe and scenic spots to pitch a tent. You’ll see anglers casting off the banks, kids splashing in the current, and plenty of folks just soaking up the river air. If you want a spot where you can sleep steps from the water, this is where to start.

96% (477) 18 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Shinnecock Hills

Peconic River Campgrounds

1. Peconic River Campgrounds

95%
(669)
14mi from Shinnecock Hills · 24 sites · Tents, RVs
Grassy field. Natural woods. River accessible. We are located 30 minutes from Long Island, NY. Feel free to pitch your tent anywhere you like on the property. Choose the grassy meadow or the natural woods filled with trees. Have a campfire and enjoy nature. Bring fishing gear and cast away. Go for a relaxing walk on the 2,000 feet of walkable dikes right on the river. Bring your canoe or kayak and feel free to launch it right on site. Toilets and shower are available. Potable water available. Pet-friendly! Bring a bike and explore our dirt trails across the street. Or visit the man-made dam on Dam RD just 2 minutes down the road, where you can take a dip in the water. If you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle, look no further! It's serene, peaceful, and private. So come experience it for yourself! Nature awaits!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Zichichi Family Farm

2. Zichichi Family Farm

100%
(17)
49mi from Shinnecock Hills · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Your Quintessential New England Farm Getaway and, Outdoors Enthusiast's Paradise. Zichichi Family Farm Estate is located on 58 private acres in North Stonington CT. The property is in a very private and natural setting, yet very close to other amenities, including Foxwoods, Misquamicut Beach, Mystic Seaport, and Downtown Westerly. As a family farm we produce a wide variety of items on our property. Depending on the season, these items may include lamb, pork, produce, eggs, syrup, honey, etc… They can be purchased in advance or when onsite (subject to availability), we always recommend letting us know in advance if you are interested in something in particular so we can do our best to accommodate as we do sell out of items from time to time. The property features numerous hiking trails though fields and woods, a pond for swimming, boating, and excellent private fishing areas in the pond and brook; Fishing is catch and release only on the farm property. Barbless hooks are required (you can file them off, let us know we can help). Adults are fly rod only, Kids are fly or spinning rod. No is license required for the pond. The Brook requires an CT state fishing license and trout stamp to fish. Never fly fished... don't worry we can help. Check out addons below. Add On Packages (packages are not always available, please check before booking and reach out to us well in advance if you think you would like something specific) : Animal Meet and Greet, Property Tour (Hike), Guided Flyfishing, Campfire Service (we light it for you). Scouting America groups welcome and discounts available. Other arrangements will need to be made so please get in contact.
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$1
 / night
Water Forest Retreat

3. Water Forest Retreat

100%
(25)
46mi from Shinnecock Hills · 3 sites · Lodging
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 56 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. We also have a propane outdoor grill and propane two burner camp stove. Out house with composting toilet close to octagon is heated. A great place to rejuvenate in the forest! Dogs welcome.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$136
 / night
Rocky Neck State Park

4. Rocky Neck State Park

100%
(5)
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Selden Neck State Park

5. Selden Neck State Park

4 sites · Deep River Center, Connecticut
A 607-acre island park bordered by Selden Creek on the east and the Connecticut River to the west, Selden Neck State Park is about one half mile wide and one and a half miles long. Aside from a few tidal marshes, it is completely blanketed with lush woodland vegetation.Unique for being one of the few places in Connecticut offering boating campsites, visitors can also partake in many traditional camping activities during their visit. The lookout points from the trails are highly recommended and will make you totally understand why the Nature Conservancy dubbed the lower Connecticut River as one of “America’s Last Great Places.”
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
The Sandbox Campground

6. The Sandbox Campground

91%
(76)
41mi from Shinnecock Hills · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 :)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
Riverdale Farm Campsite

7. Riverdale Farm Campsite

30mi from Shinnecock Hills · 172 sites
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.
Gillette Castle State Park

8. Gillette Castle State Park

1 site · Chester Center, Connecticut
Straddling the towns of East Haddam and Lyme, Gillette Castle State Park receives a whopping 300,000 visitors each year. But then again, that’s just kinda what happens when you have a flippin’ medieval castle here. The landmark castle was once a private residence commissioned and designed by actor, director and playwright William Gillette, known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes.Besides touring the castle and its museum, the park entertains many traditional recreational opportunities, but also some far less common ones too. It’s one of the few places in the state where you can river camp, and in honor of its history, still hosts many theatrical celebrations. It’s elementary dear reader, why you won’t want to skip over this one.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Devil's Hopyard State Park

9. Devil's Hopyard State Park

63%
(4)
22 sites · Moodus, Connecticut
Devil’s Hopyard got its name from a couple of different stories, although it does sounds like a great name for a delicious india pale ale. The Hopyard part is in fact believed to have origins tracing back to a farmer who grew hops for brewing near Chapman Falls, the main attraction of this area. The Devil part likely comes from early settlers who tried to explain away the unique potholes in the stone around the waterfall with the supernatural.These potholes are actually perfectly explainable by science, go figure. As stones moved down stream, some would occasionally get trapped in an eddy, causing them to swirl around and erode the rock. The devil story is much more interesting though, which claims that the devil accidentally got his tail wet one day and was so angry, he burned holes in the stones with his hooves. Guess you'll have to go see it for yourself and make up your own mind on what truly happened. While you're there, make sure to check out the awesome hiking, fishing and mountain biking in the area. Devil's Hopyard State Park is just as full of outdoor activities as it is with history.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hurd State Park

10. Hurd State Park

100%
(1)
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!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets

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