Selden Neck State Park River Camping
00 reviewc/o Gillette Castle State Park 67 River Road, East Haddam, Connecticut, 06423, United States
Selden Neck State Park River Camping
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$35.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $25 to $35 per night. Additional charges may apply based on group size or premium features.
About this campground
Escape to a hidden paradise where only boats can take you—Selden Neck State Park offers four pristine campsites tucked away on a verdant island sanctuary. This exclusive boat-access retreat promises the ultimate disconnect from civilization, where dense woodlands whisper secrets and the Connecticut River's gentle currents provide your soundtrack.
Selden Neck State Park offers boating campsites located in secluded areas. These sites are accessible only by water and cater to primitive camping conditions.
Historical SignificanceOnce connected to the mainland, this enchanting island holds stories etched in stone and soil. Former farmlands and granite quarries speak to its working past, until nature intervened dramatically in 1854 when powerful spring floods carved Selden Creek, forever transforming this peninsula into the isolated island paradise campers treasure today.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full palette as seasons transform this island getaway. Bundle up for crisp winter adventures when frost decorates the landscape, or embrace the sultry summer nights perfect for stargazing from your waterfront camp. Spring awakens the island with wildflowers and migrating birds, while early fall paints the canopy in brilliant golds and crimsons—prime time for those seeking perfect camping weather.
ElevationRising 230 feet above the river's edge, the island's gentle slopes invite exploration without exhausting climbs. These moderate trails wind through varying elevations, offering hikers rewarding vantage points to survey their temporary island kingdom while maintaining an accessible adventure for most fitness levels.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into 607 acres of untouched wilderness where roads have never scarred the landscape. Ancient granite quarry ruins peek through dense woodland curtains, while tidal marshes teem with wildlife along the water's edge. This uninhabited island sanctuary, embraced by Selden Creek and the mighty Connecticut River, offers rare solitude where moss-covered trees and weathered stone tell tales of centuries past.
Geological RegionNestled between the flowing embrace of Selden Creek and the Connecticut River, this remarkable 607-acre roadless island showcases nature's architectural prowess. Tidal marshes transition seamlessly into lush woodland habitats, creating diverse ecosystems that thrive in splendid isolation. The island's unique geography, shaped by water and time, provides campers with an authentic wilderness experience just a paddle away from the mainland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information about accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsite size is not specified.
Sites PrivacySome user reviews suggest that the campsites are secluded. For example, Jerry noted, 'I like that the camping spots are secluded.'
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Quarry Knob for hiking access; other campsites offer varied proximity to water.
Best CampsitesQuarry Knob campsite is highly rated for scenic trails leading to old quarry remnants.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay duration not specified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guest capacity per site not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFour boat-accessible campsites distributed across the island for privacy and isolation.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; precautions advised during hunting season (mid-September to late February).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the Connecticut State Park website or by contacting the ranger station directly.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability possible; limited due to isolated island access.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are subject to state park regulations; details vary depending on the reservation platform.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Selden Neck State Park offers hiking trails that are marked and feature historical points of interest such as a quarry and old farm ruins. The elevation of the island, up to 230 feet, allows for potentially strenuous hikes. Wildlife viewing could be a natural extension of the forested and marshy environment, although it is not explicitly mentioned.
Hiking
Marked hiking trails include one starting near the Quarry Knob campsite leading to the quarry area and another extending northwest to old farm ruins. The elevation of the island reaches nearly 230 feet, offering a mix of easier and more strenuous trails.Boating
The park is only accessible by water, implying that boating is a primary activity for reaching the island. Specific boating details or facilities are not mentioned.Winter Activities
No winter-specific recreational activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports beyond boating are not discussed.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings with cooking grates.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential safety hazards include proximity to state hunting lands (mid-September to late February).
Active alertsAdvisory for hunting season (wear bright clothing and avoid hunting areas).
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in East Haddam, Connecticut, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates correspond to warm months (May through September).
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are mentioned. Campers are likely expected to practice leave-no-trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresSurrounded by Connecticut River and Selden Creek, offering water-based recreation.
Common complaintsComplaints mention lack of potable water and limited facilities.
HostNo on-site host available; ranger station contact provided.
Campground Map
c/o Gillette Castle State Park 67 River Road, East Haddam, Connecticut, 06423, United States
Driving directionsIsland is only accessible by water.
Only accessible via water routes; no direct road access.Nearby places
East Haddam (approx. 5 miles)
Chester (approx. 7 miles)
Essex (approx. 9 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies available in East Haddam, Connecticut, approximately 5 miles away, including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Selden Neck State Park River Camping has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews reflect satisfaction with the secluded nature of the campsites and the basic but clean facilities. One user explicitly mentioned their enjoyment of the fire pits and outhouse cleanliness.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
- Secluded campsites: 'I like that the camping spots are secluded.' - Clean facilities: 'Campsite was not a mess either.' - Functional amenities: 'Nice little fire pit, outhouse.'
Common Concerns
No specific complaints are noted in the user reviews provided.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring their own potable water and avoid visiting with pets, as they are not allowed. Given the proximity to hunting areas, wearing bright clothing during hunting season is highly...
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Seasonal Insights
No seasonal-specific user feedback is provided, but official sources note the presence of hunting activities beginning in September, which may influence the camping experience.
Camper Quotes
'Pretty fun place to camp.' - Jerry 'I like that the camping spots are secluded.' - Jerry 'Nice little fire pit, outhouse Campsite was not a mess either.' - Jerry
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite numbers or detailed differentiation between sites is provided, other than a mention of Quarry Knob as a starting point for a trail.
Accessibility Features
Reviews do not address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
'Pets are not permitted in the camping areas.' This is explicitly stated in the official information.
Last updated August 10, 2025