The best camping near Gillette Castle State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Gillette Castle State Park adventure.

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Gillette Castle State Park Campground

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Top-rated campgrounds near Gillette Castle State Park

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Peconic River Campgrounds

20 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Calverton, NY

Grassy field. Natural woods. River accessible. We are located 30 minutes from Long Island, NY. Feel free to pitch your tent anywhere you like on the property. Choose the grassy meadow or the natural woods filled with trees. Have a campfire and enjoy nature. Bring fishing gear and cast away. Go for a relaxing walk on the 2,000 feet of walkable dikes right on the river. Bring your canoe or kayak and feel free to launch it right on site. If you're bringing an RV, we can accommodate vehicles up to 30 ft in length and the sites require levelling. There is a water hookup but no electrical hookup. Toilet & showers are available. Potable water available. Pet-friendly! Bring a bike and explore our dirt trails across the street. Or visit the man-made dam on Dam RD just 2 minutes down the road, where you can take a dip in the water. If you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle, look no further! It's serene, peaceful, and private. So come experience it for yourself! Nature awaits!

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Chestnut Hill Vineyard

8 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Hopkinton, RI

We are beginning farmers on 25 acres, we have lots of livestock here and a unique collection of plants starting out in our nursery. The property is in closed in rock walls and includes a cemetery that dates back to the 1800s. Please wear shoes our property has been a homestead/farm for a couple hundred years and does have broken glass as a result. On the property is a large rock grouping that is about the size of a modern full sized truck. We have a watering hole on the property that is spring fed and usually clear… unless the ducks get in. You can totally filter the water for drinking, we drink it. Our farm is more of a primitive campground, parking is not at your campsite. The walk is 3-5 minutes from the parking area. We have a composting toilet on site and plenty of deadwood to collect for burning. Please do not bring firewood We do message every camper after they book giving instructions on how to get here to save our neighbors from unwanted guests, please check for our message. Hope to see y’all here! Happy camping

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Humble Farm with Simplicity

5 sites · Lodging, Tents3 acres · Higganum, CT

Bring your family & friends to camp at our quiet and very modest small farm. Located in backwoods horse pastures with free range chickens, a dog, and a couple of horses. The property is very spread out and there is an outhouse for all sites to us. Your pets are welcome too! Locally there are state parks with beaches, and state forest for trails & lakes, hiking and biking. Or you can just relax and enjoy the serenity! Other attractions include local farmers markets, Gilette's Castle, and the famous River Ferry crossing the Connecticut River with a vehicle across to East Haddam. We cannot allow any wood for camp fires to be brought in form the outside for environmental reasons. It can be purchased for $12 per bundle on this site or $10.00 here at farm. Farm Fresh eggs daily when available for $4.00 per 1/2 dozen. No bedding is provided for cabin or trailer sites. Garbage removal is available as well $5 per bag provided.

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Swanson's Farm

1 site · RV, Tent33 acres · West Greenwich, RI

We have a pretty magical farm in rural West Greenwich. We are only about 10 mins from I-95 but we are nestled in the woods. Fall asleep to the sound of crickets and cicadas and wake up to birds chirping and our rooster crowing . It is certainly a peaceful, quiet, private area. Our site has a waste-bag toilet (must take waste with you), an extension cord and a sink. The site is located in a quiet field where you will often find deer grazing in the morning and afternoon. We are a young farming family. Our dream is to build a cidery on this property in future years. We have started to plant our orchard with cider apple varieties, about 650 dwarf apple trees, and we are also growing some flowers and squash at the moment. We currently have six pigs and nine chickens on the farm. Eggs and cuts of pork are available for purchase, just ask! Feel free to walk around the farm, just be respectful, don't leave anything behind, and be aware that some areas have poison ivy (the field where you are staying does not have any).

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Organic Green Farm Retreat

4 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · North Stonington, CT

Better Together CT Inc Farm and Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to re-integrating veterans and first responders through farming, fellowship and the arts. Through full community participation we offer programs for seniors and children as well. Our working farm produces Organically grown hemp and vegetables and offers a full line of products that are handcrafted with full spectrum CBD oil from hemp. Feel free to help us pick produce in the fields or rent paddleboards and explore The local spots. Our rescued therapeutic miniherd loves to have breakfast with our campers and enjoys therapeutic touch. Explore over 30 acres of hiking trails with nearby water access for fishing and swimming. This historic farm has been in the same family for generations and became a cornerstone of the Country Wellness Campus, the New England Center of Excellence for holistic medicine in 2018. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent in the forest or field in preparation for a unforgettable retreat! This location is central to multiple activities but in itself offers 33 acres of trails, Stonewalls and native serpentine designs; trails on our property lead to beautiful Tipping Rock, a local historical landmark and meeting place in the 1700s. You can stream out back for fishing, and for wildlife galore. 5 minutes down the road, you will find Sacred Lantern Hill which will challenge your hiking skills. Minihorses rescued a year ago will melt your heart and teach you about yourself. Kids will have a lifetime of memories after exploring nature and learning about self sustainability. You may swim at the beach 15 minutes away or visit surrounding New England coastal towns such as Mystic. If interested in the sweat lodge, please check the calendar for availability. Enjoy a package of wellness services such as the Floatpod Sensory Deprivation Chamber, Infrared Sauna, Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber, Halo Therapy, and Vitamin Infusions. Monday through Friday, we offer walk-in medical services by tele-medicine. Feel free to learn about farming hemp and organic vegetables with the team, and shop at the CWC Farm Store on the property for organic foods, CBD products and Native American Art. Enjoy the excellent restaurants located within walking distance or venture out to the casinos. Mohegan Sun Casino is 15 minutes by car and Foxwoods Casino is a 5 minute trip. Recharge your battery while supporting veteran programs through 501 (c)3 nonprofit Better Together CT Inc!

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Fernwood on Alan F.’s Land

2 sites · RVs, Tents43 acres · Brooklyn, CT

There are several options for setting up your tent. You will be the only ones at Fernwood, or Fernwood 2 unless we happen to be up working on the land. No matter where you set up you'll have your own private fire pit, and level ground for your tent(s). Come and enjoy a quiet retreat, or use Fernwood as a base for many outdoor activities-biking, fishing, hiking-all nearby. Natchaug Forest offers great trout fishing. Goodwin State Forest is less than 3 miles away by car where you can put in a canoe on Pine Lake, amble through the wildflower and pollinator gardens, or enjoy the Education Center and Museum. From Goodwin, you can access the Air Line State Park Bike/Hiking Path. Hampton also has a general store that has simple food, frozen dinners that Kara will heat up for you, gifts, and awesome Ice Cream Sodas! ( https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946253543&mibextid=LQQJ4d ) If you want a change from all that nature, there is Sharpe Hill Vineyard less than 10 miles away, as well as We-Li-Kit IceCream less than 6 miles. The route to either place will take you through beautiful scenic farmland. We hope you enjoy our forest and the surrounding area as much as we do.

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Black Rabbit Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Southwick, MA

Black Rabbit Farm is not only a beautiful oasis, but a fully operational 10 acre farm. Situated at the foot of the Berkshires, the farm is home to a small orchard, vineyard, and garden space. We take pride in creating a sustainable environment for all our production, based on what the land has to offer. Small greenhouse spaces create year-round production. Rocky hillside will develop a significant "terroir" for our grapes. Even adopted cats prowl the fields to reduce small animal populations. The views are to die for and the easy access to Rte 91 and the Mass Pike will make your trip an easy one for all involved. Visit our gallery farmstore, open Friday-Sunday, and find local punk crafts, clothing, cut flowers, heirloom vegetables, CBD products, and more!

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The Sandbox Campground

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Groton, CT

The Sandbox campground was born from The Sandbox Indoor Beach Sports and Events facility, which mainly focuses on providing year round beach volleyball. We bought the property in 2015 and opened the facility in 2019. As it happens, it's a 12+ acre lot surrounded by wetlands, hiking and biking trails ... there will never be another building built within view of our facility. We are surrounded by nature, and will be forever. So what a great opportunity to offer camping and access to all of the forests, woodlands, wetlands and trails around! And if you're up for it, come play some beach volleyball and meet new lifelong friends :)

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SimplePrivateNaturalwEpicFirepit

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Hopkinton, RI

I love the outdoors and RV life. The world is changing. We can help each other by taking advantage of our natural surroundings bringing more freedom, adventure and fun into our lives. Learn more about this land: Simple, natural and private location to please diverse interests for all! Calling outdoor nature enthusiasts with epic fire pit with beautiful un-manicured natural surroundings in a complete private backyard with a canopy of tall trees. You'll appreciate a 30 amp hook up, outside shower, rustic screened porch and propane grill. The modest house structure will be unoccupied during your stay for your private booking on the 2.2 acre private property. Pet friendly with a runner as you are all there to get away and enjoy all the fresh air. There is hiking, beaching, boating, swimming, kayaking and golfing galore close by. Or shop, dine and visit beautiful coastal destination beaches and islands via ferries (Block and Long Island) of Southern MA, RI, CT &; NY. Watch Hill is only 12 miles away and check out Newport, Jamestown, Mystic, Foxwoods, North Stonington, wineries, breweries, farms, just too many things to describe. Or keep it more simple with local farms, ponds and chillax. Perfect central stop en route to your final destination. Please bring supplemental firewood. The last renters burned all that was available.

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Glamping @ Meadow Ridge Farm

4 sites · Lodging110 acres · Litchfield, CT

Meadow Ridge Farm is a 110-acre working dairy farm. But don't be misled, the campsite is very secluded, located over a quarter a mile away from anything. You will get to the campsite by driving down the gravel road past corn fields, pastures and cows, too. The area has so much to offer, including award-winning restaurants, some of the most beautiful hiking trails, wineries, a distillery, and local farmers markets. Three miles away the town green offers shops, historical tours and restaurants. White Memorial Foundation is a 4000-acre nature preserve 4 miles away with over 40 miles of trails and so much more! Fresh raw milk, local eggs, and maple syrup are available on site for purchase. We provide ample fire wood for your campsite so you have one less thing to pack! What's included in your stay: - Canvas 10'x12' tent on raised deck - Fire wood, fire starting materials, kindling, lighters - trash bags and dumpster on property - potable water in 5 gallon jug with water spigot on property - Bed with air mattress(es) - Cooking utensils, salt and pepper, pot holders, paper towels, bottle opener, dish soap and dish pan - Outhouse bathroom with loo waste system, toilet paper - Solar shower and shower stall on backside of outhouse - small wood burning stove in tent for cooler evenings - bug spray and citronella candles - stocked first aide kit What's not included: - bedding, linens, towels - food items - flashlights This is a remote camp site with no access to electricity. Guests may bring and use a generator if they wish.

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Mickelberry Forest Gardens

2 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Newtown , CT

The meadow we occupy was once the farmers property that I grew up next to at my parents farm house. When he wanted to sell his property he offered it to us for purchase at a fair price if we would not develop more than we needed to live here. We maintained the meadow adjacent to our property and have kept it as an agricultural site. We have had our son who is a permaculture expert develop an edible forest garden and a unique diversified small orchard so we can eat and share healthy organic fruits and vegetables while helping our environment and wildlife and educating others to do the same. It is expensive to live in Newtown but we love our property. We want to teach others to grow food from their land while helping to support us keeping our adjacent property agricultural and undeveloped. Our property has provided many happy gatherings and events and we love to share it with others. Let us know if there is anything special we can help provide for you. Come visit Mickleberry!!! Learn more about this land:Thank you to all the wonderful friends we have met through this amazing program. We regret that our community at this time does now allow for "transient" renting of property and I unknowingly was operating outside of the zoning rules and regulations of our town. Please continue to get outside and enjoy all the beautiful places and spaces this world has to offer and keep in touch. We love you all! Thank you for your support! Bill and Amy Enjoy your stay next to our edible forest garden on the Edge of a beautiful meadow along side the orchard of berries, nuts and fruit trees. Various seasons will offer you an opportunity to pick your own breakfast in our maturing establishment. You can enjoy exploring, and examining our 7 year permacultuire food forest with chestnut seedlings already tall enough to climb , 10-foot hazels bearing buckets of nuts and a different selection of raspberries, blackberries, gooseberry, currents, golden berries, service berries and Mulberries. Enjoy a stroll through the meadow trail to breath in morning views and evening fireflies and stars. This camp area is very private but household amenities are not far away if desired. This site is much more private than Mickelberry Forest Garden Site and the beautiful mountain view is only a small step away. One mile away we offer nearby blue mark trails, mountain biking, lake and outdoor activities are at your fingertips and your hosts will be happy to provide any assistance needed to find or enjoy these opportunities. The Creamery (Ferris Acres) is one of the best farm ice cream shops in the East. We can provide breakfast upon request from our free range chickens on our kiwi lined deck with beautiful mountain views. Come and enjoy the croak of the bullfrog and the sound of the crickets. We are new and growing our amenities so at this time check the overview for available amenities but you can guarantee we won't disappoint. Come visit Mickelberry Forest Garden and The Meadow's Edge our newest most private site!!!

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The Brightside

1 site · Tent2 acres · Burlington, CT

Welcome to The Brightside! My huband's hobby was trolling the internet for weird/old/historic homes. I would just roll my eyes, smile and nod. Then he found a listing for one of these 'fixer uppers' near the school he taught at. He asked me to come look at it, and I humored him, figuring it was a nice day for a drive. The moment I stepped out of the car, I was in love...not with the house but the two acres of grounds bordered on two sides by the Nassahegan state forest. The property had been empty for years and gone wild. In the 1950's the previous owners had been avid gardeners and arborists. I became a garden sleuth looking for evidence of their work. It's taken years, but I have been able to salvage some of their work. I love to stroll around the 'grounds' and watch the world turn green in the spring. Step out the back door, go past the forsythia hedge and you'll see the barn at the far back of the property, bordering the Nassahegan State Forrest. Along the right side of the property are very old pear and apple trees. A short path from the yard puts you right onto one of the largest trail systems in Connecticut. Stroll to the back and you will find the barn. Listen and you can hear the creek talk to the trees. Fireflies flock to the upper yard in June. The property is on a dead end street, with houses on 2 acre plots. It feels secluded, but is only a few miles from the town center. For those forgotten items, or an ice cream craving, we have you covered. Minutes away you will find a CVS, Cumberland Farms, Dunkin Donuts, and Subway. The Frozen Gnome Ice Cream Shop, and their partner restaurant, The Greenhouse Tavern are local favorites. The town brewery, Evening Sky, is open Thursday through Sunday and only minutes from The Brightside. Stop by Hogans Cider Mill Tap Room, and enjoy mini-golf with your adult beverage of choice. For breakfast and lunch, you can't beat the "I Know A Guy" Deli. I'm there so often, they know my name and order. Camp Information: -3 camping sites to choose from. We book only one at a time for your privacy. (Group campers may book all three) -Dogs permitted on leash, maximum of 2 -Separate private driveway with ample parking -Outdoor water spigot -Chemical camping toilet

The best camping near Gillette Castle State Park guide

Overview

About

Straddling the towns of East Haddam and Lyme, Gillette Castle State Park receives a whopping 300,000 visitors each year. But then again, that’s just kinda what happens when you have a flippin’ medieval castle here. The landmark castle was once a private residence commissioned and designed by actor, director and playwright William Gillette, known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes.

Besides touring the castle and its museum, the park entertains many traditional recreational opportunities, but also some far less common ones too. It’s one of the few places in the state where you can river camp, and in honor of its history, still hosts many theatrical celebrations. It’s elementary dear reader, why you won’t want to skip over this one.