There are Plenty of Pet-Friendly Campsites in the Connecticut Shoreline
The Connecticut Shoreline is a picturesque destination for humans and their furry companions. With our sandy beaches, charming towns, and abundant natural beauty, the CT Shoreline offers the perfect setting for a pet-friendly tent camping adventure. Today, we’re sharing the top pet-friendly campsites in the Connecticut Shoreline. We hope you’ll be inspired to plan an adventure before it gets too cold. If you make it out to any of these spots with your pets, tag us on social so we can see your pics!
Old Saybrook, Essex, Ivoryton, Centerbrook, and Deep River
The charming towns of the CT Shoreline offer a mix of historic sites, waterfront views, and peaceful camping experiences. Look for campsites that allow pets and provide amenities like dog parks or walking trails. Some popular options include:
- Rocky Neck State Park: This state park offers camping, hiking, and swimming opportunities for both humans and their pets. If cabins are more your style, check out Eagle View Cabin in East Lyme, which is only 2 miles from the Rocky Neck State Park and beach.
- Hammonasset Beach State Park: This large state park has designated camping areas that welcome pets. Enjoy swimming, fishing, and exploring the park’s trails with your furry friend.
Chester, Westbrook, and Clinton
These towns offer a coastal, relaxed atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities. Check for campsites that are pet-friendly and have access to nearby beaches or parks. Consider these options:
- Indian River State Park: This state park offers camping, hiking, and fishing opportunities, and pets are welcome on the-season.
- Private campgrounds: There are several private campgrounds in the area that allow pets. Be sure to check their specific policies and amenities. You can find campgrounds, cabins and more by location on Hipcamp.com.
Other Areas of the CT Shoreline
There are RV parks and tent camping sites all around the CT Shoreline. Whether you’re into disconnecting entirely and becoming one with nature or prefer more luxurious amenities, you’ll find something at this link.
The Sandbox Campground in Groton has great reviews. According to the owners, “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.”
Tips for Camping with Your Pet
Check campground policies: Before booking your campsite, make sure it is pet-friendly and understand any specific rules or restrictions.- Bring necessary supplies: Pack plenty of food, water, and supplies for your pet, including a leash, collar, and waste bags. Check out our blog about tent camping with pets for tips.
- Keep your pet on a leash: Always keep your pet on a leash in designated areas.
- Clean up after your pet: Be responsible and clean up after your pet to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
- Consider pet-friendly activities: Research pet-friendly activities and attractions in the area, such as dog parks, beaches, and hiking trails.
- Mind open flames and other camping dangers: Check out our recent blog about fire safety and pets. Keep food contained and pets at a safe distance from skewers like those used for marshmallows and kabobs.
By following these tips and choosing a pet-friendly Connecticut campground, you can enjoy a memorable camping adventure with your furry companion along the beautiful Connecticut Shoreline.
If you can’t get to the wilderness this month but know your dog would love a romp in the woods or on the beach, contact us to learn more about our dog hiking adventures. There are many benefits for the dogs and you get to come home to a relaxed pup that went on an adventure while you worked (or played.)
We are accepting new dog walking and dog hiking clients! New Shoreline Happy Paws clients can create an account. We will be in touch to further discuss your needs and set you, your family, and your pet(s) up for success. Existing clients may book dog walking and pet sitting services by logging in to your client profile.
Shoreline Happy Paws serves the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:
- Old Saybrook
- Essex, Ivoryton & Centerbrook
- Deep River
- Chester
- Westbrook
- Clinton
- Old Lyme
- East Lyme
- Niantic
Certain Parts and Certain Service Hours in:
- Lyme and Madison
- Waterford, New London, Groton
- Uncasville, Gales Ferry, Mystic, Noank
