Camping in Connecticut

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

94% (1223 reviews)
  1. Connecticut
94% (1223 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Connecticut

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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12 top campgrounds in Connecticut

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Forest Treasure Island

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Wilton, CT
Welcome to Our Nature-Loving Farm Retreat in Connecticut Escape to our serene 7-acre farm, where forest, field, low mountains and gentle animals create a peaceful haven just 15-20 minutes from the ocean in Westport Sherwood Island close to Stamford and Norwalk and beautiful Lake Mohegan in Fairfield. Stay in one of our 4 spacious glamping tents or find your own magic in our Freedom of the Forest camping area, or bring your own RV home, please read description at RV site Wake each morning to birdsong and the scent of floral or mushroomy air around . This is amazing I bet you will remember it for long time 😍 Upon request, enjoy a nourishing breakfast or brunch made with our homemade butter, sourdough bread, eggs, foie gras different kind of cheese, pancakes (GF or buckwheat) and seasonal delights ,extra fee applies, and each time menu is different, depending what do we have that day for ourselves. Wander through our organic garden, gather free-range eggs, sip fresh goat milk (when available), and forage for wild berries, nuts, figs, wild ramson (March/April) forest herbs in season. Children can play freely in our natural playland with organic sand, a treehouse, and adventure zones, while adults relax with a river stone foot bath and the aroma of cedar. A gentle creek is just a short walk away. Massage services available upon request. Our land is shared with friendly goats, ducks, rabbits, goose chickens of rare breeds, peacocks, pigs, chickens, cats, and dogs One dog included next dogs is extra fee applies. • Breakfast/brunch is optional and available by request (fee per person). • All walking children (ages 2 –12) must be counted as guests; infants are free. • Visiting guests to ours campers must be registered and paid for—please contact us in advance. • Early check-in (before 2 PM) adds $20 (2 hours) • As of July 2025, unfortunately firewood is no longer provided anymore • We are a peaceful, loving family and kindly ask all guests to bring the same spirit. Aggressive or disrespectful behavior is not welcome, for the safety and well being of ours and other guests. Please note: that we have animals here and you will hear the occasional sounds of peacocks, geese, barking of dogs as a greeting to new guests . We look forward to share it all
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$64
 / night
99%
(202)

Mickelberry Forest Gardens

2 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · 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!!!
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$60
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Saved 1 time

Inlaw Apt @ River w/ Swans, Eagles

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Baltic, CT
Enjoy a music-inspired, private entranced in-law "apartment" in a home right on the river! See beautiful wildlife such as swans, bald eagles, herons, bobcats and river otters, while enjoying the river with three kayaks provided. Enjoy your own space with a bedroom (queen bed), kitchenette, bathroom, living room with queen sleeper sofa and a dining area. Just outside your door is a covered patio that overlooks the river, with a gas fire pit, dining table, grill, couch, lounge chairs and a hammock. Walk down the steep slope to access the river or to hike the almost 5 acres of land on the river. (make sure during summer months you have tick spray when hiking). Unique property where you must be physically fit to access the slope that leads down to the river. It is steep and can be dangerous. Life vests are provided and must be worn when kayaking. No fires allowed other than the gas fire table on the patio. Gas grill provided for outdoor barbecuing. The in-law apartment is also 13 miles from Mohegan Sun Casino with numerous shops, gambling, restaurants and concerts year-round. Foxwoods casino is about 15 miles away as well. We are about 30 miles from the ocean. Beautiful towns such as Old Saybrook, Mystic, Stonington, Essex and Niantic are just a few local towns worth discovering.
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$112.50
 / night
95%
(181)

Humble Farm with Simplicity

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Higganum, CT
Bring your family & friends to camp at our quiet and very modest small farm. Located in backwoods horse pastures with chickens, a dog, and a couple of 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 THE DRIVEWAY TO THE LEFT FROM THE STREET IS OURS., THE ONE PARALLEL TO THE RIGHT FROM THE STREET IS OUR NEIGHBOURS. 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 offer an hot H2O outdoor shower here for the comfort of out clients. It is located on the back of main house in corner. 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. There are blankets and pillows are provided, and linens for cabin or trailer sites. Garbage removal is available as well $5 per bag provided.
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$49
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99%
(103)

Fernwood on Alan F.’s Land

2 sites · RVs, Tents43 acres · Hampton, CT
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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$54.15
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97%
(19)

Glamping @ Meadow Ridge Farm

4 sites · Lodging110 acres · Litchfield, CT
Meadow Ridge Farm is a 110-acre working dairy farm. But don't be misled, the campsite is very secluded, located over a quarter a mile away from anything. You will get to the campsite by driving down the gravel road past corn fields, pastures and cows, too. The area has so much to offer, including award-winning restaurants, some of the most beautiful hiking trails, wineries, a distillery, and local farmers markets. Three miles away the town green offers shops, historical tours and restaurants. White Memorial Foundation is a 4000-acre nature preserve 4 miles away with over 40 miles of trails and so much more! Fresh raw milk, local eggs, and maple syrup are available on site for purchase. We provide ample fire wood for your campsite so you have one less thing to pack! What's included in your stay: - Canvas 10'x12' tent on raised deck - Fire wood, fire starting materials, kindling, lighters - trash bags and dumpster on property - potable water in 5 gallon jug with water spigot on property - Bed with air mattress(es) - Cooking utensils, salt and pepper, pot holders, paper towels, bottle opener, dish soap and dish pan - Outhouse bathroom with loo waste system, toilet paper - Solar shower and shower stall on backside of outhouse - small wood burning stove in tent for cooler evenings - bug spray and citronella candles - stocked first aide kit What's not included: - bedding, linens, towels - food items - flashlights This is a remote camp site with no access to electricity. Guests may bring and use a generator if they wish.
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$100
 / night
99%
(44)

Hartwoods

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Guilford, CT
Welcome to Hartwoods, where tranquility meets wilderness in the heart of North Guilford, Connecticut. Nestled amidst a serene wooded landscape, our property offers a unique and private getaway for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For RV enthusiasts, we provide a convenient hookup for electricity and water, allowing you to enjoy modern comforts while surrounded by nature's beauty. While sewage facilities are not available on-site, our serene setting more than makes up for it. In addition to RV accommodations, we offer the option to rent a yurt and bathhouse separately, providing a cozy and secluded retreat for those seeking a more traditional camping experience. Nature lovers will delight in the abundance of outdoor activities available right on our doorstep. Explore miles of scenic trails for hiking and mountain biking in the nearby Genesee Trails, or take a leisurely stroll along the tranquil brook that meanders through our property. Despite our secluded location, we're conveniently close to downtown shoreline areas, allowing you to easily explore the charming shops, restaurants, and attractions of the region. There are signs at both entrances to the site; one is a Hipcamp sign at ground level on the left side of the road (going north) and one is "Hartwoods" with reflectors on a tree (also on left side of the road going north). There is also a sign at the actual site. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors or simply looking to unwind in a peaceful wooded environment, Hartwoods offers the perfect escape. Come and experience the beauty and serenity of our wilderness retreat in North Guilford, CT. We look forward to welcoming you. There is a cement block fire pit with grill available for outdoor cooking and enjoyment. Please be responsible and use proper fire extinguishing techniques, utilizing the provided water hose. Firewood is BYO. Any smoking paraphernalia must be disposed of in a responsible manner, as should be all trash. There are no bathroom facilities available. Please be aware that you will have to be self-contained, either in your RV or with a camp toilet. Thank you!
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$50
 / night

Other options in Connecticut

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

Camping in Connecticut guide

Overview

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.