Summer Camping in Connecticut
Discover the best summer camping across Connecticut. Experience the best of outdoor camping during the warmest months. Long days, starry nights, and endless adventure await.
Summer Camping in Other States
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Lake Waramaug State Park
Swim, paddle, and soak up the sun from your lakeside basecamp, where crystal-clear waters meet tree-shaded campsites along Connecticut's most beautiful lake.
Gillette Castle State Park River Camping
The Connecticut River flows beneath your tent while a 24-room stone castle with medieval turrets and battlements looms overhead, creating a storybook setting unlike any other riverside campsite.
Hopeville Pond State Park
Summer days unfold with swimming in crystal-clear waters, launching kayaks at sunrise, and casting lines for bass along the wooded shoreline. The 544-acre pond becomes your private playground, where hot showers and modern amenities await after hours spent exploring by boat or splashing with family.
About Summer Camping in Connecticut
Summer camping in Connecticut offers an exceptional blend of lakefront recreation, riverside adventures, and forested retreats across the state's diverse landscapes. From the pristine waters of Lake Waramaug in the Litchfield Hills to the historic Connecticut River Valley, the Constitution State transforms into a summer camping paradise where families can escape the heat while remaining close to home.
Best Time
Peak summer camping season in Connecticut runs from late June through Labor Day, with July and August offering the warmest weather and best swimming conditions as lake and pond temperatures reach comfortable levels in the mid-70s. Early summer (late May through mid-June) provides excellent camping with fewer crowds, blooming mountain laurel (Connecticut's state flower), and comfortable temperatures in the 70s, though water may still be chilly for swimming.
Season Highlights
- Warm weather and long days
- Swimming and water activities
- Full amenities and services
- Family-friendly activities
Explore Summer Camping in Connecticut
Browse 9 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve summer campsites at popular locations like Lake Waramaug and Gillette Castle at least three to six months in advance through the Connecticut state park reservation system, as waterfront sites book out quickly for weekends.
- 2Bring plenty of insect repellent and consider a screened shelter or bug net, as mosquitoes and black flies can be active near water sources, especially at dawn and dusk.
- 3Pack water shoes for rocky lake and river entries, and always bring life jackets for children even at designated swimming areas.
- 4Consider midweek arrivals for better site selection and a more peaceful experience, as many campgrounds see weekend warrior crowds that clear out Sunday afternoon.
Summer Camping in Connecticut FAQ
We've ranked 9+ summer campgrounds in Connecticut based on weather, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include campgrounds with shade, water access, and good summer conditions.
June through August is prime summer camping season in Connecticut. June and September offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, while July and August are peak season.
For summer camping in Connecticut, bring sun protection, plenty of water, cooling gear, and light layers for cooler evenings. Bug spray is essential in many areas.
Popular Connecticut Campgrounds Book Fast
The best summer camping in Connecticut book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
Outdoorithm
Just now
🎉 Site opened up!
Lake Waramaug State Park
Your preferred dates
Quick! This site typically books within hours.
Find Your Perfect Connecticut Campground
Create your free account to save favorites, set availability alerts, and get personalized recommendations.
- Search 9+ summer camping in Connecticut
- Set alerts for hard-to-book sites
- Get personalized recommendations for your trip
- Compare campground amenities
- Check weather forecasts
No credit card required. Every feature is free to use.
