How to Find the Top State Park Campgrounds in Connecticut

Escape into the stunning landscape of Connecticut and break away from the fast pace of modern life. Connecticut provides more than 1,400 campsites in 13 state parks. Camping season runs from the third weekend in April to the last weekend in September. From sandy beaches to secluded islands, the campgrounds of Connecticut's state parks offer campers a verdant getaway.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Wilderness survival guide
• Medical kit
• Water
• Reservation
• Insect repellent
• Camera
• Maps

1. Review the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection's list of state parks with campgrounds available (see Resources, below). Although the official camping season closes at the end of September, the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection does offer off-season camping until December 31 in select state parks.
2. Enjoy backpack camping by hiking the blue blazed hiking trail system. Campsites along this trail are primitive and must be reserved in advance. Information is available on the Department's Web site.
3. Consider the three public river camps set up for people traveling along the Connecticut River. These are primitive campsites with fireplaces and pit toilets. Advanced reservations are required. Two out of three of these camps are restricted to canoers.
4. Reserve your campground by calling (877) 668-CAMP. Connecticut uses Reserve America (see Resources, below) to take reservations online. There is a minimum stay of 2 nights. Cancellations can be made up to 2 days before the arrival date.
5. Arrive after 1 p.m. The average price per campground ranges from $11 to $15 per night. Camping in inland state parks is limited to 14 days. The maximum stay at other parks is 21 days.

Tips & Warnings

• Follow all the regulations if you are going to use one of the off-season campgrounds, the backpack camping or river camps. These campgrounds are not for the occasional camper but are designed more for experienced campers.