Connecticut might be one of the smaller states in the U.S., but what it lacks in size it makes up for in charm, character, and incredibly scenic camping opportunities. With rolling hills, dense forests, serene lakes, and a cozy coastal vibe, this New England gem is packed with outdoor escapes that’ll have you falling in love with the wild side of the Nutmeg State.

From the quiet corners of state parks to the salt-sprayed breezes along Long Island Sound, there’s something here for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned tent camper, RV road warrior, or weekend warrior looking for a quick escape into the woods.

Let’s explore ten of the best campgrounds in Connecticut, each offering its own unique flavor of natural beauty, adventure, and good old-fashioned relaxation.

1. Hammonasset Beach State Park Campground

📍 Address: 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443
🛶 Number of Campsites: 558
🌐 Reservations: ct.gov

This is Connecticut’s most popular park, and for good reason. Hammonasset stretches along two miles of sandy shoreline—making it the perfect place to fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to a glowing Atlantic sunrise.

The campground has over 500 sites, accommodating both tent campers and RV travelers. There are even a few cabins if you prefer a solid roof over your head. Spend your days beachcombing, cycling along paved trails, or exploring the Meigs Point Nature Center.

Pro tip: Book early in the season—this place fills up fast, especially in summer.

2. Devil’s Hopyard State Park

📍 Address: 366 Hopyard Rd, East Haddam, CT 06423
🛶 Number of Campsites: 21
🌐 Reservations: ct.gov

Devil’s Hopyard is one of Connecticut’s most underrated gems. Tucked away in the southeastern part of the state, it offers a quieter, more forested camping experience than its coastal counterparts.

Chapman Falls—a stunning 60-foot waterfall cascading over rugged rock formations—is the park’s crown jewel. Campers here enjoy thick tree cover, hiking trails that meander through fern-filled woods, and the peaceful soundtrack of nature at its finest. It’s rustic, it’s quiet, and it feels like your own little slice of wilderness.

3. Rocky Neck State Park Campground

📍 Address: 244 W Main St, Niantic, CT 06357
🛶 Number of Campsites: 160
🌐 Reservations: ct.gov

This shoreline campground combines beachy vibes with the woodsy calm of inland New England. A quick walk from the campsites takes you to the park’s namesake rocky beach—perfect for clambering on boulders, tide pooling, or simply soaking in that salty breeze.

The campground itself offers shady, tree-lined sites with fire rings and picnic tables, and there’s a charming old stone pavilion perched above the beach that looks straight out of a storybook.

You’ll see families, beach lovers, and nature nerds alike here, all enjoying the best of Connecticut’s coastal charm.

4. Black Rock State Park Campground

📍 Address: 2065 Thomaston Rd, Watertown, CT 06795
🛶 Number of Campsites: 78
🌐 Reservations: ct.gov

Tucked into the hills of the Western Highlands, Black Rock offers a peaceful woodland escape for those looking to recharge. The park is named for the massive black rock ledge that towers over the surrounding landscape, offering incredible views of the Naugatuck Valley.

A scenic loop trail climbs the ridge and winds past trickling brooks and old stone walls—a nod to Connecticut’s colonial past. The campground is simple but cozy, nestled among oak and pine.

Bring your boots and a good book. This is a place to slow down and soak up the forest.

5. Lake Waramaug State Park Campground

📍 Address: 30 Lake Waramaug Rd, Kent, CT 06757
🛶 Number of Campsites: 76
🌐 Reservations: ct.gov

Perched on the shores of a stunning glacial lake in the Litchfield Hills, Lake Waramaug is one of the most picturesque places to camp in the state. The water is calm and clear, ideal for paddling or taking a peaceful swim.

The campground wraps around a gentle bend of the lake, giving many sites a waterfront view. It’s not uncommon to spot herons, turtles, or even a bald eagle gliding over the treetops.

In fall, the foliage here is absolutely next-level. The hills erupt into color, and the reflection on the lake? Like a painting come to life.

6. Hopeville Pond State Park

📍 Address: 929 Hopeville Rd, Griswold, CT 06351
🛶 Number of Campsites: 80
🌐 Reservations: ct.gov

This quiet park sits around a large, placid pond that was once the site of a 19th-century textile mill. The ruins still linger—moss-covered stone walls tucked between trees—which adds a hint of mystery to your morning stroll.

Camping here is laid-back and family-friendly, with a good mix of shady and open sites. Kayakers and anglers love it for the calm waters, and the campground’s proximity to the Pachaug State Forest means you’ve got miles of trails at your fingertips.

7. Kettletown State Park

📍 Address: 1400 Georges Hill Rd, Southbury, CT 06488
🛶 Number of Campsites: 61
🌐 Reservations: ct.gov

Nestled alongside the Housatonic River’s Lake Zoar, Kettletown is a peaceful retreat with a rich Native American history. The campground sits atop a forested ridge, offering filtered views of the lake below and plenty of peace and quiet.

You can fish, swim, or hike to your heart’s content—and the blue-blazed trails take you through some seriously scenic terrain, from rocky overlooks to marshy lowlands. In spring, wildflowers add pops of color to the trailside.

Come fall, it turns into a kaleidoscope of amber, gold, and crimson.

8. Macedonia Brook State Park

📍 Address: 159 Macedonia Brook Rd, Kent, CT 06757
🛶 Number of Campsites: 51
🌐 Reservations: ct.gov

This rugged park near the New York border is a favorite among hikers and nature lovers. The Macedonia Ridge Trail leads to a rocky outcrop with sweeping views of the Harlem Valley and Taconic Mountains.

Campsites are primitive—no electric hookups, no frills—just you, the woods, and the sound of a nearby brook bubbling through the valley. The whole place feels wild and unspoiled, despite being just a short drive from civilization.

If you’re looking for a rustic getaway with killer hiking right out your front door, this is it.

9. Pachaug State Forest – Green Falls Campground

📍 Address: Trail 2, Voluntown, CT 06384
🛶 Number of Campsites: 18 (tent-only)
🌐 Reservations: ct.gov

Green Falls Campground is tucked into the largest forest in Connecticut—Pachaug State Forest. The sites are walk-in only, giving it a backcountry feel with just enough amenities to keep things comfortable.

There’s a serene pond for paddling and fishing, quiet trails weaving through dense woodlands, and very little noise except the rustling of leaves and the occasional call of an owl.

This is the spot for campers who want to unplug completely and soak in some true solitude.

10. Salt Rock State Campground

📍 Address: 173 Scotland Rd, Baltic, CT 06330
🛶 Number of Campsites: 71
🌐 Reservations: ct.gov

A peaceful, wooded escape in the eastern part of the state, Salt Rock sits along the Shetucket River and offers a great mix of nature and comfort. With RV hookups, tent sites, and even a pool, it caters to campers of all stripes.

The river is perfect for lazy afternoons of tubing, fishing, or just watching the sunlight sparkle on the water. Birdsong, gentle breezes, and plenty of open space make this one of the most relaxing campgrounds in the state.

Final Thoughts

Connecticut’s campgrounds offer a surprising variety of experiences. From beachside breezes to wooded retreats and quiet mountain trails, the Nutmeg State packs a whole lot of beauty into a compact footprint.

Whether you’re chasing fall foliage, craving some lakeside tranquility, or just need a quick weekend recharge, Connecticut’s wild side is always ready to welcome you.

So pitch your tent, light the fire, and let nature do its thing. Happy camping! 🌳🌍