Your First (or Next) Connecticut Camping Trip Starts Here
Pachaug State Forest is one of those places that earns its reputation. It's considered one of Connecticut's premier natural getaways for camping, and it delivers on that. Trail maps, driving directions, and detailed user reviews are available on AllTrails, so you can plan your days before you even pack the car. It also offers cabin rentals alongside traditional tent sites, which makes it a solid choice if someone in your group isn't quite ready to sleep on the ground.
Where Connecticut Campers Actually Go
Bear Mountain Trail holds the top spot on AllTrails for Connecticut camping trails. It carries a 4.7-star rating from over 4,174 reviews, and it's listed as both the most popular and most difficult camping trail in the state. That combination is worth taking seriously. If you're new to trail camping, this is one to work up to, not start with.
Water Access and Lakeside Sites
West Thompson Lake Campground is the clearest example of lakeside camping in Connecticut. The site sits near the wooded shoreline, and that proximity to water makes a real difference. Glassy mornings on a lake have a particular quality, quiet and a little suspended, like the day hasn't started yet. It's the kind of thing you come back for.
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Saphirose Women's Long Hooded Rain Jacket
A long, hooded raincoat with windbreaker styling. Good coverage for rainy hikes or camp mornings. Available in black with a fitted hood included.Check Today's Price -
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Waestcia Rechargeable Heated Winter Gloves
Electric heated gloves with touchscreen-compatible fingertips and waterproof construction. Designed for cold outdoor activities like hiking and camping.View on Amazon -
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Stanley Perfect Brew Pour Over Set, 12 oz
Make real pour-over coffee at camp using the included reusable filter and 12 oz insulated stainless steel mug. BPA-free and lid included.See Current Price -
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Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats for Snow and Ice
Slip these over your shoes or boots for extra grip on icy winter walks. A practical, low-cost option for Connecticut winters. Sold as one pair.See Current Price -
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Anlisim Merino Wool Hiking Socks, 5 Pairs
Five pairs of cushioned merino wool socks in fun tie-dye colors. Good for hiking or cold-weather days. Made from merino wool for warmth.View on Amazon
How to Book a Connecticut Campsite
Connecticut state park campgrounds have an official reservation portal where you can browse and book sites directly. It covers the state-managed parks and forests, including options in Pachaug State Forest. The portal is straightforward to use, and having a reservation in hand before you leave eliminates one of the most common first-time camper stressors.
Gear Tips for Connecticut Camping
Connecticut camping spans three real seasons. Spring brings mud and ticks. Summer is warm and humid, especially inland. Fall is the most comfortable time to be in the woods, with cooler nights that call for a real sleeping bag rated below 40 degrees. Layering is the approach that works here, not packing for one kind of weather.