How much does camping cost at Hammonasset Beach State Park?

Camping fees at Hammonasset Beach State Park range from $20-$21/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Hammonasset Beach State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Hammonasset Beach State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Hammonasset Beach State Park before I book?

Yes! Hammonasset Beach State Park has 18 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Hammonasset Beach State Park?

Hammonasset Beach State Park is open Peak season is June through August, with higher visitor volumes.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Hammonasset Beach State Park?

Yes, Hammonasset Beach State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Hammonasset Beach State Park?

Fire policies at Hammonasset Beach State Park: Campfires require a rented fire pit ($12 rental fee plus refundable $20 deposit).. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Hammonasset Beach State Park have?

Hammonasset Beach State Park has 552 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Hammonasset Beach State Park?

Pets are not allowed at Hammonasset Beach State Park. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Hammonasset Beach State Park?

Hammonasset Beach State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Hammonasset Beach State Park?

Popular activities at Hammonasset Beach State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Hammonasset Beach State Park

4.15

122 reviews

1288 BOSTON POST RD (PO 271), MADISON, Connecticut, 06443, United States

Top 21% in CTFall

Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

23 ft

Price

$20 - $21/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

552 campsites

Season

2025 Season: Opens F...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

23 ft

Price

$20 - $21/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

552 campsites

Season

2025 Season: Opens F...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)Official Website

Get Directions

Hammonasset Beach State Park

$20.00 - $21.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Daily Rates: Full-service: $35 resident/$45 non-resident plus processing fee Basic: $20 resident/$30 non-resident plus processing fee Processing Fee:...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

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Provider

2032451817

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Campground Map

1288 BOSTON POST RD (PO 271), MADISON, Connecticut, 06443, United States

Hammonasset Beach State Park

1288 BOSTON POST RD (PO 271), MADISON, Connecticut, 06443, United States

Nearby places

Madison, CT (3 miles, approximately 10 minutes)

Clinton, CT (5 miles, approximately 15 minutes)

New Haven, CT (20 miles, approximately 30 minutes).

Nearby supplies

Groceries and camping supplies available within Madison, CT (~3 miles)

camp store onsite for firewood and basic supplies.

Driving directionsFrom the north/Hartford area: Take I-91 south to Route 9 south. Off Route 9, take Exit 9. Turn right (south) onto Route 81; continue down Route 81 until you run into I-95. Turn right onto the I-95 entrance ramp, and go approximately 1 mile to Exit 62, then turn left off the exit. Head south 1 mile down Hammonasset connector, and go straight through the light crossing Route 1 (Boston Post Road), into the park. From the south: Take I-95 north, Exit 62. Take a right off the exit ramp onto Hammonasset I-95 connector. Park entrance will be 1 mile ahead. From the east/Rhode Island: Take I-395 south onto I-95 south, Exit 62. Take a left off the exit and go approximately 1 mile. Go straight through the traffic light, crossing Route 1 (Boston Post Road). From the west/New York: Take I-95 north, Exit 62. Take a right off the exit and go approximately 1 mile. Go straight through the traffic light, crossing Route 1 (Boston Post Road), into the park.

The campground is accessible from major routes like I-95 and Route 1 Boston Post Road. Accessibility is consistent year-round and is not impacted by seasonal closures.

Weather at Hammonasset Beach State Park

Best Time to Camp at Hammonasset Beach State Park

Fall delivers the sweet spot: crisp days between 50-70°F, chilly nights, and dramatically fewer people after Labor Day. Migrating shorebirds and waterfowl pack the marshes and beaches through October. Spring brings gentle weather for hiking and birdwatching. Summer turns the beach into a crowded scene with warm swimming and sandcastle weather. Winter camping is possible but cold and exposed with wind sweeping straight off the sound.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 21% in CT

Fewer people after Labor Day, crisp days, migrating shorebirds—fall called 'sweet spot.'

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season is June through August, with higher visitor volumes.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: 2025 Season: Opens Friday, May 23 and closes Monday, October 13 at noon 2026 Season: Opens Friday, May 22 and closes Monday, October 12 at noon

About Hammonasset Beach State Park

Hammonasset Beach State Park spreads across 552 grassy campsites along Long Island Sound, Connecticut's largest public beach. Sites accommodate up to 6 people and equipment up to 35 feet, with fees running $20-21 per night. The open layout resembles boot camp rows more than secluded woodland camping, but the two-mile beach, nature center, and salt marsh access compensate for what the sites lack in privacy.

The campground features over 550 sites, primarily accommodating tents and RVs. There are no options for pets, and all sites are non-electric.

Historical Significance

The name Hammonasset comes from Eastern Woodland Indians who farmed these coastal lands, meaning 'where we dig holes in the ground.' During World War II, Meigs Point served as a military aircraft training range.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the sweet spot: crisp days between 50-70°F, chilly nights, and dramatically fewer people after Labor Day. Migrating shorebirds and waterfowl pack the marshes and beaches through October. Spring brings gentle weather for hiking and birdwatching. Summer turns the beach into a crowded scene with warm swimming and sandcastle weather. Winter camping is possible but cold and exposed with wind sweeping straight off the sound.

ElevationThis coastal campground rests at sea level, where land meets the rhythmic pulse of Long Island Sound.

Natural Features and SceneryBeachfront location on Long Island Sound with over 500 sites resembling a small beachfront village. Features lifeguarded beaches, river access, and proximity to the ocean[1][2].

Geological RegionPositioned along the dynamic shores of Long Island Sound, Hammonasset showcases Connecticut's fascinating coastal geology in action. Here, ancient glacial deposits meet the ceaseless work of wind and waves, creating an ever-changing landscape of barrier beaches and protective dunes. The park's salt marshes represent thousands of years of sediment accumulation, forming one of nature's most productive ecosystems. These tidal wetlands serve as crucial nurseries for marine life while protecting the inland areas from storms, making this geological wonderland both beautiful and essential to the region's ecological health.

Scenic ViewsViews of Long Island Sound and coastal marshes dominate the scenery. Meigs Point offers views of the marsh ecology and osprey nests.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodging accommodations available within the park.

Programs & ActivitiesThe Meigs Point Nature Center offers hands-on programs like a saltwater touch tank and exhibits on local flora and fauna.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

1:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Check-out

By 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum length of stay is 21 consecutive days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 6 guests per campsite.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground arranges sites in loops labeled S through X. Sites sit in open rows with minimal privacy between neighbors and few trees for shade. Expect flooding in low spots during rain.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online on the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection's website.

Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available on a walk-up basis, but advanced reservation is recommended due to high demand during peak season.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled or modified within 18 days for inland campgrounds and 25 days for coastal campgrounds (Hammonasset and Rocky Neck).

AccessibilityThe park offers ADA accessibility, including beach wheelchairs, though no detailed reviews about accessibility are available.

Site SizeSites accommodate up to 6 people and equipment up to 35 feet in length.

PrivacyThe campsites lack privacy, as expressed by multiple reviewers. One reviewer stated, 'The sites are laid out like an army boot camp with very few areas providing any privacy.

Total Campsites552 campsites

Recommended SitesFor privacy, aim for secluded sites at the end of roads. For families, larger open sites can accommodate group activities.

Best CampsitesNo specific site recommendations found in available sources; campground offers 556 sites including ADA accessible, electric/water, tents, RVs, and 8 rustic cabins[1][2].

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When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

558 RV/Tent Sites Grassy sites with picnic tables 88 campsites with electric and water hook-up available Six accessible campsites available by reservation Six-person maximum per site Maximum stay: 21 days AMENITIES Amphitheater Bathhouses with hot showers, dishwashing, and potable water Camp store Six dumping stations Firewood and ice available on site Playground with swings and slides Recycling stations for mini propane cylinders Campsites do not have fire rings. Campers are welcome to bring their own raised firepit or rent one from the campground store (depending on availability). No pets

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Hammonasset Beach State Park offers diverse activities including swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy boardwalks, picnic areas, and educational programs at Meigs Point Nature Center.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsFlooding during heavy rain has been reported in user reviews as problematic for tent campers. Poison ivy is also present in certain areas.

Fire PolicyCampfires require a rented fire pit ($12 rental fee plus refundable $20 deposit).

Quiet HoursQuiet hours begin at 10:00 PM.

Emergency ServicesHospital: Middlesex Hospital Shoreline Medical Center, approximately 4 miles away in Westbrook, CT. Police station: Madison Police Department, approximately 3 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingA recycling center is available within the campground. However, one user noted that dumpsters can overflow during busy periods.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to Long Island Sound, with access to sandy beaches and marsh ecosystems.

Camp HostNo specific information on campground hosts.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.2

122 reviews

Satisfactory

Hammonasset Beach State Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews are mixed, with praise for the beach and nature center but significant criticism regarding campsite privacy and restroom cleanliness. One user summarized, 'Great beach, but very noisy generators on the campground until 10PM.'

Review Summaries

Based on 122 reviews

What Campers Love

Beachfront 'glamping' even in tents, family memories for generations, extensive amenities and activities like volleyball, bingo, fishing, canoeing[1][2].

Based on 122 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include lack of privacy, poorly maintained restrooms, and noise disturbances. Some users criticized the enforcement of rules and campsite flooding during rain.

Based on 122 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific sites like 'HAMMAONEU36' and 'HAMMAONEV10' are standard non-electric, accommodating up to 6 people. Most sites are noted for their lack of privacy.

Based on 122 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Do not bring firewood due to Asian Longhorned Beetle risk; purchase or rent on-site. Pets not allowed in campground. Fires allowed off the ground using rentable fire pits. Reservations via...

Based on 122 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer experiences are dominated by crowded conditions and noise, while off-season visits are noted as peaceful and ideal for long walks.

Based on 122 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Can’t beat a summer sunset at Hammonasset Beach State Park.' 2. 'The beach is lovely and, without the dregs who litter it with their junk, it would be idyllic.' 3. 'Bathrooms are a health hazard,...

Based on 122 reviews

Accessibility Features

No detailed accessibility reviews are available, though the park provides general ADA access features.

Based on 122 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not permitted in the campground or on the beach. Multiple users expressed disappointment about this policy.

Based on 122 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Families and beach-focused campers who book early and aim for fall get the most out of this place. Migrating shorebirds pack the marshes through October, the beach empties after Labor Day, and the Meigs Point Nature Center keeps kids busy on cloudy days. Electric hookups on 88 si

Skip if

Tent campers who need shade, quiet, or personal space will struggle. Sites are open rows with no buffer between neighbors, generators run until 10 PM, restroom upkeep draws consistent complaints, and low-lying spots flood in hard rain. Campers who've felt unwelcome at busy, predo

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