- Shelter Island
The best river, stream, or creek glamping near Shelter Island
96% (69) • 6 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Shelter Island
Water Forest Retreat
1. Water Forest Retreat
100%
(24)
33mi from Shelter Island · 3 sites · Lodging
This property has been in my family for three generations. It is classic Connecticut with hills and streams and stone walls.
The octagon is a private 122 ft.² that is electrified and heated. It has a full size bed, cabinet and table with chairs. It sits next to a brook on 56 acres of forest with a pond, small waterfall, marsh and 2 1/2 miles of hiking trails. There is a fire pit and outdoor dining area next to the octagon. We also have a propane outdoor grill and propane two burner camp stove. Out house with composting toilet close to octagon is heated. A great place to rejuvenate in the forest! Dogs welcome.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$136
/ night
Inlaw Apt @River near Casino, Kayak
2. Inlaw Apt @River near Casino, Kayak
100%
(1)
40mi from Shelter Island · 1 site · Lodging
Enjoy a music-inspired, private entranced in-law "apartment" in a home right on the river! See beautiful wildlife such as swans, bald eagles, herons, bobcats and river otters, while enjoying the river with three kayaks and a canoe provided. Enjoy your own space with a bedroom (queen bed), kitchenette, bathroom, living room with queen sleeper sofa and a dining area. Just outside your door is a covered patio that overlooks the river, with a gas fire pit, dining table, grill, couch, lounge chairs and a hammock. Walk down the steep slope to access the river or to hike the almost 5 acres of land on the river. (make sure during summer months you have tick spray when hiking). Unique property where you must be physically fit to access the slope that leads down to the river. It is steep and can be dangerous. Life vests are provided and must be worn when kayaking. No beginner kayakers! This is not the place to learn how to kayak on a river, so please be honest with yourself, as the river can get rough. No fires allowed other than the gas fire table on the patio. Gas grill provided for outdoor barbecuing.
The in-law apartment is also 13 miles from Mohegan Sun Casino with numerous shops, gambling, restaurants and concerts year-round. Foxwoods casino is about 15 miles away as well.
We are about 30 miles from the ocean. Beautiful towns such as Old Saybrook, Mystic, Stonington, Essex and Niantic are just a few local towns worth discovering.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$125
/ night
Riverdale Farm Campsite
3. Riverdale Farm Campsite
22mi from Shelter Island · 172 sites
Experience the charm of Riverdale Farm Campsites, a unique family vacation destination set on a sprawling 100-acre colonial farm in Connecticut. This hidden gem is perfectly situated between a picturesque country road and the tranquil Hammonasset River, offering a serene escape for nature lovers and families alike.
Our campground features a variety of spacious sites, including wooded areas, waterfront spots, and grassy meadows, ensuring privacy and comfort for every camper. We provide essential amenities such as water, electric, and 3-way hook-ups, with the added convenience of new 50-amp electric service. For those new to camping, we offer on-site rentals that make it easy to dive into the outdoor experience.
At Riverdale Farm Campsites, we pride ourselves on our outstanding recreational facilities, which are unmatched in the region. Our friendly and relaxed atmosphere allows you to unwind and enjoy quality time with loved ones. We focus on providing top-notch amenities and full services while avoiding the hustle and bustle often found at other campgrounds.
Leave your worries behind and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Riverdale Farm Campsites. With nearby beaches along Long Island and a wealth of outdoor activities, restaurants, and shops, your vacation promises to be both enjoyable and memorable.
Burlingame State Park
4. Burlingame State Park
91%
(22)
789 sites · Quonochontaug, Rhode Island
Discover Burlingame State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hidden Acres Family Campground
5. Hidden Acres Family Campground
38mi from Shelter Island · 94 sites
Hidden Acres Family Campground stands out for its secluded charm, offering a unique retreat that keeps families returning year after year. Nestled alongside the picturesque Quinebaug River, this campground provides the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you prefer lounging in the sun or diving into the refreshing waters, there’s something for everyone.
For those who love fishing, grab your pole and cast your line into the river, where you might just reel in a trophy catch. The campground's natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal spot for outdoor activities, ensuring that your family can create lasting memories together.
With its combination of privacy, scenic views, and access to nearby attractions, Hidden Acres Family Campground is a hidden gem that promises adventure and relaxation for all ages. Come experience the magic of this unique destination and discover why it’s a favorite among families!
96% (69) • 6 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Shelter Island
Water Forest Retreat
1. Water Forest Retreat
100%
(24)
33mi from Shelter Island · 3 sites · Lodging
This property has been in my family for three generations. It is classic Connecticut with hills and streams and stone walls.
The octagon is a private 122 ft.² that is electrified and heated. It has a full size bed, cabinet and table with chairs. It sits next to a brook on 56 acres of forest with a pond, small waterfall, marsh and 2 1/2 miles of hiking trails. There is a fire pit and outdoor dining area next to the octagon. We also have a propane outdoor grill and propane two burner camp stove. Out house with composting toilet close to octagon is heated. A great place to rejuvenate in the forest! Dogs welcome.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$136
/ night
Inlaw Apt @River near Casino, Kayak
2. Inlaw Apt @River near Casino, Kayak
100%
(1)
40mi from Shelter Island · 1 site · Lodging
Enjoy a music-inspired, private entranced in-law "apartment" in a home right on the river! See beautiful wildlife such as swans, bald eagles, herons, bobcats and river otters, while enjoying the river with three kayaks and a canoe provided. Enjoy your own space with a bedroom (queen bed), kitchenette, bathroom, living room with queen sleeper sofa and a dining area. Just outside your door is a covered patio that overlooks the river, with a gas fire pit, dining table, grill, couch, lounge chairs and a hammock. Walk down the steep slope to access the river or to hike the almost 5 acres of land on the river. (make sure during summer months you have tick spray when hiking). Unique property where you must be physically fit to access the slope that leads down to the river. It is steep and can be dangerous. Life vests are provided and must be worn when kayaking. No beginner kayakers! This is not the place to learn how to kayak on a river, so please be honest with yourself, as the river can get rough. No fires allowed other than the gas fire table on the patio. Gas grill provided for outdoor barbecuing.
The in-law apartment is also 13 miles from Mohegan Sun Casino with numerous shops, gambling, restaurants and concerts year-round. Foxwoods casino is about 15 miles away as well.
We are about 30 miles from the ocean. Beautiful towns such as Old Saybrook, Mystic, Stonington, Essex and Niantic are just a few local towns worth discovering.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$125
/ night
Riverdale Farm Campsite
3. Riverdale Farm Campsite
22mi from Shelter Island · 172 sites
Experience the charm of Riverdale Farm Campsites, a unique family vacation destination set on a sprawling 100-acre colonial farm in Connecticut. This hidden gem is perfectly situated between a picturesque country road and the tranquil Hammonasset River, offering a serene escape for nature lovers and families alike.
Our campground features a variety of spacious sites, including wooded areas, waterfront spots, and grassy meadows, ensuring privacy and comfort for every camper. We provide essential amenities such as water, electric, and 3-way hook-ups, with the added convenience of new 50-amp electric service. For those new to camping, we offer on-site rentals that make it easy to dive into the outdoor experience.
At Riverdale Farm Campsites, we pride ourselves on our outstanding recreational facilities, which are unmatched in the region. Our friendly and relaxed atmosphere allows you to unwind and enjoy quality time with loved ones. We focus on providing top-notch amenities and full services while avoiding the hustle and bustle often found at other campgrounds.
Leave your worries behind and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Riverdale Farm Campsites. With nearby beaches along Long Island and a wealth of outdoor activities, restaurants, and shops, your vacation promises to be both enjoyable and memorable.
Burlingame State Park
4. Burlingame State Park
91%
(22)
789 sites · Quonochontaug, Rhode Island
Discover Burlingame State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hidden Acres Family Campground
5. Hidden Acres Family Campground
38mi from Shelter Island · 94 sites
Hidden Acres Family Campground stands out for its secluded charm, offering a unique retreat that keeps families returning year after year. Nestled alongside the picturesque Quinebaug River, this campground provides the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you prefer lounging in the sun or diving into the refreshing waters, there’s something for everyone.
For those who love fishing, grab your pole and cast your line into the river, where you might just reel in a trophy catch. The campground's natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal spot for outdoor activities, ensuring that your family can create lasting memories together.
With its combination of privacy, scenic views, and access to nearby attractions, Hidden Acres Family Campground is a hidden gem that promises adventure and relaxation for all ages. Come experience the magic of this unique destination and discover why it’s a favorite among families!
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
T
Tanya
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Inlaw Apt @River near Casino, Kayak
Loved staying here! The view is amazing, and the outdoor patio area has a sofa and outdoor fire pit, which was so cozy on a cool fall night. We used the canoe on the river - loved that Gina has kayaks and a canoe for guests to use (and life vests). Inside the apartment was so clean and the bed and sofa bed were very comfortable. Gina left us a basket of snacks and fruit, coffee and a vase of beautiful fresh flowers welcomed us when we arrived. Gina was great to communicate with and answered all my questions. She lives upstairs, but we felt like we had the place the ourselves. I would highly recommend staying here. Also check out Arrowhead Acres bakery, winery and farm - just 12 minutes from the property. Delicious food and wine. Had dinner at a Peruvian restaurant in Norwich called Canggio Restaurant. Such great food!!
Thanks Gina! We would love to come back!
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D
Devin
July 2025
1 night at Water Forest Retreat
We had such an amazing time at the octagon! The grounds are very well maintained and everything we could've needed and more was provided by our hosts. There was an amazing amount of detail and care put into everything. We could not have had a better stay!
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Eve
July 2025
1 night at Water Forest Retreat
Five stars aren’t enough to describe our stay at the picturesque Octagon. This is a perfect getaway for a solo traveler or couple. Nancy thought of all the details, and we felt so welcomed. We cooked dinner over the bonfire, and in addition to the tiny house, enjoyed the outdoor shower and a hike through this beautiful property. I hope to return one day!
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Said
April 2025
Weekend Trip to Water Forest Retreat
Very nice place and people. I recommend to visit the place .
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E
Eric
March 2025
Weekend Trip to Water Forest Retreat
This was our second time staying at the Hiker's Haven. It was very peaceful and relaxing. We had a lovely little fire in the fire pit. The trails are well maintained. It all made for a very rejuvenating stay. We do hope to stay again in the future, maybe it will become a yearly tradition.
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Jodene
December 2024
1 night at Water Forest Retreat
I would love to take this time to express the wonderful time I had. The tranquility was exactly what I was looking for. The cabin had all the necessities needed to get comfortable and enjoy nature right at your feet. Nancy was such a joy to speak with and to get to know. The land itself is beautiful with so many wonderful trails to walk along. Would definitely recommend staying here to anyone and everyone. AHO!
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