Free Camping in Connecticut
The Land of Steady Habits, as Connecticut likes to be known, lives up to that title by providing a consistent free camping experience largely depends on the kindness of private businesses. Given the small size of the state and proximity to New York City–and that the state is used as a weekend getaway for those millions of residents–the handful of camping opportunities that do exist are relatively abundant.
See a map of all free camping in Connecticut.
Dispersed Camping in Connecticut
The most natural of the free camping areas in Connecticut is a small patch of beach in Voluntown, Connecticut, near Pachaug State Forest. Expect pit toilets, a boat ramp in little else in the way of amenities, but you're perfectly primed for swimming and fishing. It's also the contender among the spots listed here that's suitable for tent camping and your best bet for solitude instead of convenience.
Free Overnight RV Parking in Connecticut
If you're traveling along the state's southern highways near the coast, you'll find free camping at the Cracker Barrel outside of Bridgeport, and a couple of locations further East. The North Stonington Rest Area allows overnight stays in their parking lot and even has a fire pit.
Along I-84, in Northern Connecticut, another highway stop–Willington Rest Area–also allows overnight stays. It's also only a few minutes from a free dump station in Willington.
Free Casino Camping in Connecticut
Two casinos in that region, Foxwoods Resort and Mohegan Sun Casino allow camping in their parking lots. Foxwoods Resort is a barebones patch of asphalt surrounded by woods, while Mohegan Sun provides views of the Thames River. Both are known as great basecamps for exploring towns like nearby Mystic, CT, and nearby attractions like Rocky Neck State Park. Neither provides hookups.