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Camping in Connecticut
Camping
There are several ways to go camping. Tent camping is the most basic, primitive sleeping shelter. A variety of tent sizes and styles are available. Ground tents or car tents—either is an affordable and simple option. Wild camp in dispersed areas or at a campground without amenities. Full-service campgrounds are great for those who want amenities and the option to camp in a tent, trailer, campervan, or recreational vehicle (RV). RV parks typically cater to RVers and their needs. Cabins, cottages, yurts and other glamping methods are perfect for those who want a traditional camping experience close to nature, combined with ultimate comfort and modern amenities. Some places offer seasonal camping, while others provide year-round camping.
Think about where you and/or your family want to have your camping adventure: in the woods, near a lake or by a beach. Consider the activities you would like to participate in and what's available in your desired camping area. If you bring a pet, consider its needs and how your pet will spend its time with you. Explore the following pages to prepare for your ultimate camping journey.
Pet Manners in a Campground
Obey the campground pet policies and rules at all times. These regulations are in place to ensure all campers have an enjoyable, safe stay. This includes keeping your dog out of restricted campground areas. Be aware of where these pet-free zones are located. If you are unsure what this entails, call the campground in advance.
Keep your dog leashed whenever outside of your cabin, camping vehicle, trailer or tent. Retractable leashes are not recommended because you cannot control the leash length; they do not always work and can break.
Be understanding that not everyone likes dogs. Plenty of people prefer not to be approached by your dog for various reasons. Respect other people’s personal space.
Before taking your dog out for a walk or potty break, be sure to have biodegradable, disposable waste bags on hand. Use the pet waste bins or garbage cans throughout the grounds to dispose of pet waste bags. It’s also a good idea to keep a small trash bin at your site in case a nearby pet waste station is unavailable.
Do not leave your dog unattended outside at your campsite.
Never leave your dog unattended in a vehicle for any length of time, especially during warmer months as inside temperatures often rise to deadly levels within minutes, regardless of whether you leave the windows open.
Dogs naturally bark a little here and there. However, if your dog is excessively barking it becomes very disruptive to surrounding campers. Continued barking is unacceptable at most campgrounds and you may be asked to leave.
Do not let your dog dig holes all over the campsite. Instead, provide your dog with chew toys, treats or interactive games to keep your dog stimulated.
Wildlife is precious and some animals can be easily threatened or injured by an off-leash dog. Similarly, your dog could be hurt by wildlife. Always be mindful of the wildlife within your surroundings, after all, it's their home.
Arrange your schedule to include your pet in your daily activities whether at the campground or when out around town.
Campfires
There’s something unbelievably special about gathering around the campfire on a cozy, warm summer night. While stimulating all the senses, a campfire experience is unlike any other, from seeing the beautiful glow of firelight, feeling the warmth coming off the flames, listening to the subtle cracking sounds of an open fire and smelling the burning wood and smoke. Campfires offer individuals the opportunity for self-reflection and peaceful solitude while groups gathered around the fire can make unforgettable, lifelong memories. A campfire provides a down-to-earth ambiance that inspires the desire to deeply connect with others through shared stories, singing, laughter, s’mores and meals.
Special Moments
Being present and living in the moment is essential to any camping adventure. It’s about finding oneself and connecting with other people. Solo camping challenges your survival skills, helps you learn more about yourself and your capabilities, and builds confidence. When camping with family and friends you are able to make special memories, strengthen your relationships and form solid bonds with one another.
Healthy Camper
Camping is healthy for you. Camping offers numerous health benefits, including reduced anxiety and stress, increased physical activity, development of problem-solving skills, cleaner air intake, improved mental well-being, vitamin D production from the sun, increased happiness from nature, better sleep cycles, detoxification from technology, and the ability to truly rest and relax in a quiet, peaceful setting.