The 30 Best State forest camping in Connecticut

Eagle Landing State Park, located at 14 Little Meadow Road in Haddam, Connecticut, is a stunning natural oasis that is part of the extensive network of Connecticut's state parks and forests. Covering over 255,000 acres of pristine coastline, rolling hills, and enchanting forests, this park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of the region. With a variety of activities available, from hiking and horseback riding to camping and glamping, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Eagle Landing State Park. Visitors can explore sandy beaches, sparkling lakes, crashing waterfalls, and captivating views, as well as ancient rock formations that date back to the time of dinosaurs.

Macedonia Brook State Park, located in Kent, Connecticut, United States, is a 2,300-acre park that offers big hikes, stunning views, and excellent fishing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy over 10 miles of trails that showcase diverse terrain, including challenging ascents and breathtaking vistas of the Catskill and Taconic mountains. The Blue Trail leads hikers across Cobble Mountain and other peaks, providing panoramic views that are especially spectacular during the fall foliage season. The park is also home to numerous springs and streams, adding to its natural beauty. In the past, the area was used for agriculture and industry, with remnants of an iron forge and stamping works still visible. The park's forest was rejuvenated by the National Park Service's Conservation Corps Camp after the original timber was harvested for iron production in the 19th century. Today, visitors can explore the park's diverse geology, including Precambrian granitic gneiss and rusty-weathering schist and gneiss. Camping is available for those looking to extend their outdoor adventure in this scenic and historically significant park.

Camp Columbia State Park is a must-visit destination located on West Street in Morris, Connecticut. This park is a true gem among the 142 state parks and forests in the state, covering over 255,000 acres of stunning natural beauty. Visitors can explore sandy beaches, sparkling lakes, crashing waterfalls, and captivating views, as well as ancient rock formations that date back to the time of dinosaurs. Whether you're a fan of water activities, camping, hiking, or horseback riding, Camp Columbia State Park has something for everyone. With your Connecticut registered vehicle, you can easily access the park and enjoy all it has to offer. Don't miss out on the 2023 Sky's the Limit Hiking Challenge, where you can push yourself to new heights and explore the beauty of the park in a unique way. Come and experience the magic of Camp Columbia State Park for yourself!

John A. Minetto State Park, located at Connecticut 272 in Torrington, Connecticut, is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This beautiful park is part of Connecticut's impressive collection of 142 state parks and forests, which cover over 255,000 acres of pristine coastline, rolling hills, and enchanting forests. Visitors to John A. Minetto State Park can explore sandy beaches, sparkling lakes, crashing waterfalls, and captivating views, as well as rock formations dating back to the time of dinosaurs. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, camping, and more.

Algonquin State Forest, located in Winsted, Connecticut, is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction in the United States. This vast forest offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, winding trails, and serene natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, birdwatching, and picnicking in this beautiful outdoor oasis. Algonquin State Forest is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape into the tranquility of the forest.

Located in Cromwell, Connecticut, United States, River Highlands State Park is a beautiful park and tourist attraction that is part of the state's impressive collection of 142 state parks and forests. Covering over 255,000 acres of stunning coastline, rolling hills, and enchanting forests, this park offers visitors the chance to explore sandy beaches, sparkling lakes, crashing waterfalls, and captivating views. Whether you're interested in hiking, horseback riding, camping, or simply enjoying nature, River Highlands State Park has something for everyone. With your Connecticut registered vehicle, you can easily access the park and explore all that it has to offer.

Farm River State Park, located at 121 Mansfield Grove Road in East Haven, Connecticut, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction that is part of Connecticut's extensive network of state parks and forests. With 142 state parks and forests covering over 255,000 acres of pristine coastline, rolling hills, and enchanting forests, visitors to Farm River State Park can experience the natural beauty and historical treasures of the area. From sandy beaches and sparkling lakes to crashing waterfalls and captivating views, Farm River State Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're interested in hiking, horseback riding, camping, or simply taking in the scenic beauty of the park, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Trimountain State Park is a picturesque park located in Durham, Connecticut, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a tranquil escape into nature with its lush forests, scenic hiking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the great outdoors, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax in a peaceful setting. Whether you're a nature lover, a hiker, or just looking for a serene spot to unwind, Trimountain State Park is the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Nehantic State Forest is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 29 Willow Lane in East Lyme, Connecticut, United States. This sprawling forest offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature with its scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or simply relax in a tranquil setting, Nehantic State Forest is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Millers Pond State Park, located at 344 Foot Hills Road in Durham, Connecticut, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction adjacent to the Cockaponset State Forest. The park's central feature is the 33-acre Millers Pond, known for its unpolluted water sourced from large springs, making it an ideal spot for fishing small mouth bass or trout. The original dam at the pond dates back to before 1704, built by Thomas Miller to serve his gristmill downstream. Visitors to the park can enjoy activities such as fishing, mountain biking, hiking, and hunting. The serene lake, surrounded by rock outcrops that provide fishing platforms, offers a peaceful escape without a boat launch or beach. A flat trail circles the lake, offering a relaxing hike with rocky spots that require proper footwear.

Located in Haddam, Connecticut, the George Dudley Seymour State Park is a picturesque destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Covering a vast expanse of land along Clarkhurst Road, this park is just one of the 142 state parks and forests in Connecticut, offering visitors over 255,000 acres of stunning coastline, rolling hills, and enchanting forests to explore. From sandy beaches and sparkling lakes to crashing waterfalls and captivating views, the George Dudley Seymour State Park has something for everyone. Visitors can marvel at rock formations that date back to the time of dinosaurs and even spot their footprints preserved in the earth.

Mooween State Park, located at 166 Camp Mooween Road in Lebanon, Connecticut, is a picturesque destination within Connecticut’s vast network of state parks and forests. With 142 state parks and forests encompassing over 255,000 acres of diverse landscapes, Mooween State Park offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and adventure that Connecticut has to offer. From sandy beaches to sparkling lakes, crashing waterfalls to captivating views, Mooween State Park has something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can explore rock formations dating back to the time of dinosaurs, and even discover their footprints left behind in the ancient landscape.

Mono Pond State Park Reserve is a stunning natural oasis located in Columbia, Connecticut, United States. This picturesque park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With its serene pond, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, Mono Pond State Park Reserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and nature lovers. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, go for a scenic hike, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings, this park has something for everyone. Come explore the wonders of Mono Pond State Park Reserve and experience the tranquility of this hidden gem in Connecticut.

Silver Lake Camp & Retreat Center is a peaceful and serene health institution located at 223 Low Road in Sharon, Connecticut, United States. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Silver Lake and the lush forests of Connecticut, this retreat center offers a tranquil and rejuvenating experience for all who visit. Whether you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, or seeking a place to focus on your physical and mental well-being, Silver Lake Camp & Retreat Center provides a welcoming and nurturing environment for all. With a variety of health and wellness programs, as well as opportunities for relaxation and reflection, this institution is the perfect place to unwind, recharge, and reconnect with yourself. Come and experience the healing power of Silver Lake Camp & Retreat Center today.

Quaddick State Forest is a beautiful park located on Town Farm Road in Thompson, Connecticut, United States. This peaceful forest is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and more. With its scenic trails, lush greenery, and serene atmosphere, Quaddick State Forest is a great destination for nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an exciting adventure, this state forest has something for everyone to enjoy.

Moosup Valley State Park Trail is a part of the vast network of 142 state parks and forests in Connecticut, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty and historical treasures of the area. Located at 2-58 Withey Hill Road in Plainfield, this park provides access to pristine coastline, rolling hills, and enchanting forests for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Whether you're interested in hiking, horseback riding, camping, or simply taking in the scenic views, Moosup Valley State Park Trail has something for everyone. Visitors can discover sandy beaches, sparkling lakes, crashing waterfalls, and even dinosaur footprints in the rock formations throughout the park.

Discover the Historic Charm of Tunxis Forest Ski Cabin Nestled in the serene beauty of Tunxis State Forest in Hartland, Connecticut, the Tunxis Forest Ski Cabin offers a unique glimpse into the past. Located at the end of Balance Rock Road, this historic ski lodge is a testament to the craftsmanship and vision of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s. Built in 1937, the cabin is one of the few remaining ski-related recreational structures from this era in Connecticut, proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1986.

Cozy Hills Campground is a picturesque retreat located at 1311 Bantam Road in Litchfield, Connecticut, offering a tranquil setting for camping, lodging, and outdoor recreation. Nestled in the beautiful countryside of Litchfield County, this campground provides a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With spacious campsites, cozy cabins, and modern amenities, Cozy Hills Campground is the perfect destination for a family getaway or a peaceful weekend retreat. Explore the surrounding nature trails, relax by the campfire, or enjoy a variety of recreational activities in the park. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or embark on outdoor adventures, Cozy Hills Campground offers a welcoming and comfortable stay for all.

Witch Meadow Lake Campground is a lakeside vacation resort located at 139 Witch Meadow Road in Salem, Connecticut. Situated on 140 acres of mostly wooded parkland, this campground offers a wide range of amenities and recreational opportunities for guests to enjoy. The highlight of the campground is the 14 acre freshwater lake, perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. With more features and attractions than you can imagine, Witch Meadow Lake Campground is the ultimate destination for a fun-filled camping experience. The campground is centrally located in Southeastern Connecticut, making it easily accessible to many popular attractions in the area.

Acorn Acres Campground is a charming retreat nestled at 135 Lake Road in Bozrah, Connecticut, United States. This picturesque campground offers a peaceful escape surrounded by nature, with spacious campsites for tents and RVs, cozy cabins for rent, and well-maintained facilities for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and swimming in the nearby lake. With its serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Acorn Acres Campground is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway in the heart of Connecticut.

Located at 1036 Phoenixville Road in Chaplin, Connecticut, the Nickerson Park Family Campground offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Situated in the Natchaug River Valley, guests are surrounded by over 12,000 acres of State Forest, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. The campground offers a variety of campsites for both tenting and RVs, including riverside sites with water, electrical, and cable connections, as well as full-hookup pull-through sites with 50 amp electrical service and on-site sewer. The Natchaug River running along the campground is a designated Trophy Management Area, perfect for fishing enthusiasts of all ages.

West Thompson Lake Campground is a peaceful retreat located near the wooded shoreline of West Thompson Lake in northeastern Connecticut. This beautiful natural setting offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy year-round, including camping, fishing, boating, kayaking, and hiking. The campground features 11 campsites with electric and water hookups, 11 basic sites without hookups, and two Adirondack lean-to shelters. Amenities include accessible flush toilets and showers, a dump station, an amphitheater, playground, basketball court, and interpretive trails. The campground is surrounded by a forest of Eastern white pine, Northern red oak, and Shagbark hickory, providing plenty of shade and stunning views of the autumn foliage.

Nature's Campsites is a tranquil retreat nestled in the heart of Voluntown, Connecticut. Our campground offers a variety of lodging options, from traditional tent sites to cozy cabins, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape in nature. Surrounded by lush forests and serene landscapes, our park provides a perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and unwind. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or simply relax by the campfire, Nature's Campsites offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the great outdoors. Join us at 96 Ekonk Hill Road and experience the beauty of nature firsthand.

Shade Swamp Shelter is a tranquil park located at 175 Scott Swamp Road in Farmington, Connecticut. This peaceful oasis offers a serene setting for visitors to relax and unwind amidst nature's beauty. With its lush greenery, scenic trails, and shaded picnic areas, Shade Swamp Shelter is the perfect spot for a leisurely day out with family and friends. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful hike, have a picnic, or simply take in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility of Shade Swamp Shelter today!

Pachaug Cottages is a charming campground and lodging facility located at 1 Cottage Road in the beautiful town of Griswold, Connecticut, United States. Nestled in a picturesque park setting, Pachaug Cottages offers a peaceful and serene retreat for guests looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The cozy cottages provide a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. With scenic views, outdoor activities, and a welcoming atmosphere, Pachaug Cottages is the ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Come experience the beauty and tranquility of Pachaug Cottages and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Connecticut.

Meigs Point, located in Madison, Connecticut, United States, is a beautiful park situated along a two-mile sandy stretch of beach at Hammonasset Beach. This park offers a variety of activities such as swimming, surfcasting, nature walks, cycling, camping, fishing, and kayaking. The park is home to diverse habitats, including tidal marshes, forests, and estuaries, making it a haven for wildlife and rare bird species. Visitors can also explore the state-of-the-art Meigs Point Nature Center, featuring hands-on learning experiences and exhibits on the park's ecosystem. With stunning views of Long Island Sound, a beach picnic area, and opportunities for scuba diving, Meigs Point is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Don't miss the chance to experience the "singing beach" phenomenon at Meigs Point and enjoy the serene beauty of this coastal park.

The Poquetanuck Cove Preserve, located at 191 Avery Hill Road in Ledyard, Connecticut, is a beautiful park that covers 234 acres of woodland habitat and a significant portion of the Poquetanuck Cove shoreline. This tranquil preserve offers visitors the chance to witness a tidal estuary that supports a diverse range of freshwater biodiversity. A 1.5-mile loop trail takes visitors through various habitats and provides stunning views of the cove. Designated as a bird sanctuary by the State of Connecticut, the cove is home to wintering waterfowl and bald eagles in the winter months. Hiking, birding, and other forms of wildlife observation are encouraged at this preserve. Nearby, there is a canoe/kayak trail for those looking to paddle, although boat launching is prohibited on the preserve to protect the shoreline.

The Red Cedar Lake Trailhead is a beautiful park located at 166 Camp Mooween Road in Lebanon, Connecticut, United States. This scenic trailhead offers access to a network of hiking and biking trails that wind through the lush forests and around the tranquil Red Cedar Lake. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful day in nature, exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the area. The park is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the Red Cedar Lake Trailhead has something for everyone to enjoy.

Beaver Pines Campground is a serene and picturesque retreat nestled in the heart of Woodstock, Connecticut. Situated at 1728 Connecticut 198, this charming campground offers a range of accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, and cozy cabins. Surrounded by lush forests and scenic trails, guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. The campground also features modern amenities including clean restrooms, a camp store, and a communal picnic area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, Beaver Pines Campground is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Old Furnace Trailhead is a park located at 325 Squaw Rock Road in Killingly, Connecticut. With 142 state parks and forests covering over 255,000 acres of beautiful coastline, hills, and forests, Connecticut's natural beauty and adventure await at your doorstep. From sandy beaches to crashing waterfalls, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you prefer hiking, horseback riding, camping, or simply relaxing in nature, you can find it all at Connecticut's State Parks and Forests. Your Connecticut registered vehicle serves as your passport to these stunning locations. Don't miss out on the 2023 Sky's the Limit Hiking Challenge and explore all that Connecticut has to offer at the Old Furnace Trailhead.