Connecticut is known as a high-cost-of-living area, but budget camping throughout the state is absolutely possible.
Before you pack your bags, you’ll want to plan your trip and set your itinerary.
Today, we’re showcasing seven of the best Connecticut State Parks for budget camping!
Let’s get into it!
Why Visit Connecticut State Parks?
Connecticut is the southernmost state in New England. This idyllic area features stunning scenery, picturesque villages, and plenty of exciting outdoor activities. Nestled between Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New York, it offers many unique adventures near big cities like NYC and Boston.
Despite being one of the smallest states in the country, Massachusetts boasts 110 state parks and 32 state forests. You can enjoy plenty of recreational activities, from hiking and cycling to archery and snow skiing.
If you’re planning to head to this part of the country, Connecticut State Parks offer incredible budget-friendly camping opportunities that only feel far away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Here are seven fantastic options to consider as you RV through New England.
#1 Devil’s Hopyard State Park
Devil’s Hopyard State Park is shrouded in mystery and lore. According to legend, the perfectly cylindrical potholes beneath the flowing waterfalls are the work of the master of the underworld. Some folks claim to have seen otherworldly orbs floating through the night sky and heard devilish laughter in the wee hours of the morning.
However, we’re not convinced that the Prince of Darkness has ever visited this naturally stunning destination. In fact, this gorgeous locale features some of the finest scenery around.
You can hike to the falls and enjoy the view, fish for trout in the Eightmile River, and spot the many migratory birds that travel through each year.
The campground at Devil’s Hopyard only has dry camping, but we don’t think you’ll miss the extra amenities. Water taps and restrooms are throughout the campground. Reservations are required, so be sure to plan ahead. Some spots can accommodate rigs up to 35 feet long.
#2 Housatonic Meadows State Park
Located in the northwest corner of Connecticut, Housatonic Meadows State Park offers many recreational opportunities. Fly fishing is incredibly popular, but it’s catch-and-release only.
The established trails are for foot traffic only, so you can hike through the rugged hills without worrying about speedy cyclists or ATVs. These paths meander into the surrounding Housatonic State Forest, allowing you to explore the greater wilderness around you.
Housatonic Meadows’ campground offers dry camping. However, you’ll have access to bathrooms with showers and flush toilets, trash service, recycling, and a dump station. There are also nearby water taps to fill your reserves. Site lengths range from 25 to 35 feet.
Be aware that this is an alcohol-free campground.
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#3 Mashamoquet Brook State Park
You’ll find Mashamoquet Brook State Park on the other side of Connecticut, about 45 minutes west of Providence, Rhode Island.
This is another destination steeped in historical lore. According to some sources, this is where Israel Putnam shot and killed the last known wolf in the state. You can still visit the den, as well as two other natural stone formations, Table Rock and Indian Chair. These spots are connected by nearly seven miles of walking trails.
Other activities include boating, fishing, and cycling.
The Wolf Den Campground offers primarily dry camping, but one or two spots have optional water and electrical hookups. You’ll have access to a bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets, plus water taps on-site. The campground also offers trash and recycling. Most sites max out at around 35 feet.
#4 Rocky Neck State Park
If you’d rather live it up beachside, Rocky Neck State Park is one of Connecticut’s best oceanfront destinations. Located on Long Island Sound, you’ll have access to the Atlantic, salt marsh, and tidal river.
In addition to water-based activities, hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting will keep you entertained.
The campground at Rocky Neck State Park is dry camping only, but there’s a bathhouse with hot showers and toilets, plus trash service and recycling. You’ll also have access to a dump station at no charge for campers!
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#5 Hopeville Pond State Park
A bit further inland, in the old-growth forest, you’ll find Hopeville Pond State Park, once home to Connecticut’s woolen mill industry.
Today, this destination is popular among anglers, paddlers, and swimmers looking to enjoy the tranquil waters along the Pachaug River. Hiking and bird watching are other regular activities.
Unlike most other Connecticut State Parks, this one offers 11 campsites with water and electrical hookups. You’ll also have access to restrooms with hot showers, flush toilets, trash service, and a dump station. Site lengths span 25 to 35 feet.
#6 Lake Waramaug State Park
Lake Waramaug State Park is another major Connecticut destination for water-based fun. Boating, fishing, and swimming are just a few ways to enjoy the water. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, you can rent a kayak or canoe to explore the area.
On land, you can cycle the eight-mile circuit that follows the lake’s perimeter or spot the many migratory birds that nest here.
This is another dry-camping location, but they also offer restrooms, trash, recycling, and a dump station. Some sites can accommodate rigs up to 35 feet.
#7 Macedonia Brook State Park
Our final Connecticut State Park budget camping destination is Macedonia Brook. This location features 2,300 acres of wilderness with over ten miles of established trails. You can hike across Cobble Mountain for pristine views of the Catskills and Taconic ranges.
We suggest timing your trip to catch the leaves changing in the fall. However, you can find many ways to enjoy yourself here any time of the year.
The campground at Macedonia Brook offers dry camping only. Vault toilets are throughout the campground, and trash service is also available. Many sites here can accommodate 35-foot setups, with some pull-through spots.
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Get Out There and Explore!
Budget camping in Connecticut is possible at many state parks. While hookups are fairly rare, we don’t think you’ll mind roughing it in the stunning wilderness.
Put this state on your itinerary the next time you head to New England. You’ll enjoy stunning scenery, idyllic destinations, and outdoor adventure around nearly every turn!
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