River Camping at Gillette Castle
Gillette Castle State Park has a single primitive campsite on the Connecticut River, and you can only reach it by canoe or kayak. DEEP calls it one of just four river camping sites in Connecticut. It is open from May 1 to Columbus Day, costs $5 per person per night, takes groups of up to 20, and allows a one-night stay. There is a pit toilet; fires and pets are not allowed. Book through ReserveAmerica.
River Camping at a Glance
Who It's For
DEEP describes the site as an overnight stop for people travelling the river by boat. It is part of the Connecticut River Paddlers' Trail, a 410-mile paddling trail through New England with primitive campsites along the river. You cannot drive to it: DEEP says campers must arrive and leave by canoe or kayak, and there is no vehicle access.
Season and Rates
- 2026 season: opens Friday, May 1, closes Columbus Day.
- 2027 season: opens Friday, May 1, closes Columbus Day.
- Rate: $5 per person per night.
- Maximum stay: one night.
- Group size: up to 20 people.
Rules
- No fires.
- No mooring or docking facilities.
- Break camp by 9 a.m.
- No pets.
- General DEEP camping rules apply.
How to Book
Reserve online through ReserveAmerica or by phone at 1-877-668-CAMP (2267). DEEP also publishes a campsite map on its park page.
Getting On the River
The nearest put-in is the car-top launch at the Chester–Hadlyme ferry landing inside the park, marked on DEEP's map. The Friends of Gillette Castle State Park describe a kayak and canoe launch past the end of the landing's dirt parking lot. Watch for the ferry, which crosses on demand from April through November (ferry, kayaking).
Other River Camping Nearby
Downriver, DEEP's Selden Neck State Park in Lyme is an island reachable only by boat, the largest island in the Connecticut River, where DEEP also offers riverside camping (things to do in East Haddam).
Good For / Maybe Skip If
- Good for: paddlers doing an overnight on the river, scout and paddling groups up to 20.
- Maybe skip if: you want to drive in, bring a dog or have a campfire. None are allowed here.
River Camping at Gillette Castle FAQ
Can you camp at Gillette Castle State Park?
Yes, at one primitive riverside campsite reached only by canoe or kayak, open May 1 to Columbus Day. It costs $5 per person per night, and stays are limited to one night.
Can you drive to the Gillette Castle campsite?
No. DEEP says campers must arrive and depart by canoe or kayak; there is no vehicle access.
Are fires allowed at the Gillette Castle campsite?
No. Fires are not permitted, and pets are not allowed.
How do I reserve the Gillette Castle river campsite?
Through ReserveAmerica online or by phone at 1-877-668-CAMP (2267).