Escape the City Life and Camp at Rocky Neck State Park in Connecticut

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Morning sunrise at a campground with multiple tents set up

 

Amenities at the Rocky Neck State Park campground



Whether you prefer the convenience of a cabin or the rustic charm of tent camping, this park has you covered. The campground features 160 wooded and open campsites and three rustic cabins for a less primitive camping experience. Cabin rentals require a 7-night minimum stay and traditional camping spots are available for $20 per night for Connecticut residents or $30 per night (minimum of two nights) for non-residents.

Reservations for primitive sites can be made on the Connecticut State Park website. Campsites are equipped with fire rings, access to clean restroom facilities, and taps for drinking water. However, there are no RV hookups, nor does the campground allow for pets of any kind, so if you’re traveling with your furry friend, you’ll have to make other arrangements.

Rocky Neck State Park’s bathing beach is a 1/2-mile curved shoreline just a short walk from the campground, making it easy for campers to take advantage of all the park offers. The Pavilion, located near the beach, is a cobblestone structure perfect for picnics or to be reserved for group events. It offers seating for up to 300 people and includes access to electricity and picnic tables.

On-site and surrounding outdoor adventures

Couple carrying mountain bikes on a biking trail



Rocky Neck State Park doesn’t just offer a place to lay your head; it’s a hub for outdoor adventure and recreational activities. The park has 13 mountain biking trails with easy, intermediate, and difficult ratings. The park’s access biking trail is a 2,923-foot-long double track for an array of riders, while longer rides like the 10-mile Rocky Neck State Park Route challenge mountain bikers and seasoned riders.

For those looking to escape city life with a relaxing day of fishing, Rocky Neck boasts a variety of freshwater and saltwater species like flounder, sea bass, striped bass, and more. Fishing on the shoreline or the jetty on the right side of the beach is allowed all year long. Crabbing for blue crabs is also popular in designated areas along the beach.

A visit to Tony’s Nose, a unique rock formation on the beach, is a must for geology enthusiasts, and for those who love hiking, the park features over five miles of several scenic trails. The Rocky Neck State Park Trail and Extended Loop wind through the woods, offering scenic views of Long Island Sound and the opportunity to observe local bird species. Birdwatching is particularly popular here, with over 200 recorded species, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts searching for a relaxing day of birdwatching.

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Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.