So you want to camp by the beach this summer? Luckily for you,  Hammonasset State Park and Campground is just a couple hours from New York City. The State Park includes both campground and beach with a campsite costing about $40 a night for non-Connecticut residents (cheaper for those of you with a CT id!)

Along with the traditional awesomeness of camping, this adventure also offers access to swimming, areas you can fish, a few quieter trails to explore by foot and a ton of wildlife. And if you have a bike with fat tires...

This is definitely a great site to rally a group of newer campers to as the obvious draw of the beach is coupled with front country amenities like outdoor showers, picnic tables, and easy access to your cars. And while a site with 550 campsites might not seem like a place to find solitude, the parks close the gates to other visitors at sunset meaning only campers have access to the beach at night.

MAKE IT HAPPEN:

Directions

Option 1: Driving: Google Map Directions to Campground

Option 2: Take the train to Madison CT and then walk (or uber) the three miles to the campsite.** This very well may be a faster way to get there during traffic ridden summer months! 

Booking a campsite (Summer only)

Fishing Permit

Park Map