Salt Rock Campground
00 review173 SCOTLAND ROAD (RTE. 97), BALTIC, Connecticut, 06330, United States
Salt Rock Campground
$5.00 - $175.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees include $5 per bundle of firewood from the camp store, and reservations for RV hookups and longer stays can reach up to $175 for four nights as mentioned in user reviews.
About this campground
Nestled along a pristine mile of the Shetucket River, Salt Rock State Campground beckons families seeking the perfect blend of riverside adventure and modern comfort. This cherished Connecticut destination welcomes RV enthusiasts with fully-equipped hookup sites, while two sparkling swimming pools offer refreshing escapes on warm summer days. Beyond the essentials of clean restrooms, hot showers, and a convenient dumping station, Salt Rock creates memories through its unique combination of natural beauty and family-focused amenities.
Salt Rock Campground provides tent, RV, and primitive camping options. Sites include utilities such as 50 amp service for RVs, and there is a designated group camping area.
Historical SignificanceSalt Rock's story reflects resilience and renewal. After closing its gates to campers in 2016, this beloved campground emerged from a two-year hiatus with renewed purpose in 2018. The transition from private ownership to state management marked a new chapter, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the magic of camping along the Shetucket River. Today, Salt Rock stands as a testament to Connecticut's commitment to preserving accessible outdoor experiences for all.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints a different portrait at Salt Rock. Winter arrives with gentle snowfalls and crisp, clear days that transform the campground into a peaceful retreat. As spring awakens the riverfront forest, occasional showers nurture the landscape's vibrant renewal. Summer truly shines here—warm days reaching into the comfortable 80s invite endless outdoor adventures, while occasional muggy afternoons make those pool dips even more rewarding. The moderate rainfall throughout spring and summer keeps the surrounding woods lush and the river flowing strong.
ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain makes it accessible for campers of all ages and abilities, with level sites perfect for RV setup and easy walks to riverside activities.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Shetucket River serves as Salt Rock's crown jewel, its waters dancing through a corridor of mature trees that provide welcome shade and natural beauty. This wooded wonderland creates an intimate camping experience where the sounds of flowing water blend with rustling leaves. Anglers find peaceful spots along the riverbank to cast their lines, while adventurous souls launch kayaks for downstream explorations. On lazy summer afternoons, families float on tubes, letting the gentle current guide their journey through this scenic Connecticut waterway.
Geological RegionSituated in southern Connecticut's picturesque landscape, Salt Rock State Campground occupies a special place where dense woodland meets the meandering Shetucket River. This region's characteristic mix of deciduous forest and river valley creates a diverse ecosystem that showcases New England's natural splendor. The campground's location along this historic waterway places visitors at the heart of Connecticut's river valley heritage, where centuries of flowing water have carved out a recreational paradise.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA accessible facilities are present, including restrooms and trails.
Sites SizeSites vary in size; some RV sites with 50 amp service are available, and group sites accommodate larger parties. A few users commented on open field sites lacking shade.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at campsites is limited, with some reviews highlighting clustered sites in open fields and minimal seclusion.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and shade, avoid the open field RV hookup sites. Forested sites are better for shade and comfort.
Best CampsitesSite #47 was described as large, clean, shaded, and well-maintained. Site #71 was noted to be cornered and rocky, making tent setup difficult.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in after 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out before 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay allowed is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site allows up to two vehicles.
Groups
- Group sites are available for larger parties
- specific capacity or vehicle limits are not detailed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes open meadow RV sites with full hookups and shaded forested sites. Sites range in size and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but the reservation window is limited to 11 months from the booking date.
Reservation PlatformsNo specific information about platforms, but reservations are likely managed through Connecticut State Parks.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned; reservations are required at least 2 days in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled more than 2 days prior to avoid penalties.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides diverse recreational opportunities, including fishing, kayaking, tubing, hiking, and swimming. User reviews have praised the river access and pools, but also noted issues like bee activity at the pools and variable upkeep of facilities.
Hiking
The campground features trails for hiking, some of which are ADA accessible. Trails offer scenic views and opportunities for bird watching, but are generally described as moderate in difficulty.Fishing
Fishing is available on the Shetucket River, which runs along the campground. A fishing license is required for those aged 16 and older. Species and fishing quality are not specified.Swimming
Swimming is available in the Shetucket River and two pools on-site. The pools are shared with a swim school during weekdays, but remain accessible to campers. Some users have noted the presence of bees and outdated pool facilities.Biking
Mountain biking is listed as available within 10 miles of the campground, but no specific trails or facilities are mentioned.Boating
The Shetucket River provides opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, with reports of enjoyable tubing experiences lasting around two hours.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible in the surrounding areas, with opportunities for bird watching noted within 10 miles.Cultural and Educational Programs
Movies are shown on Saturday nights in the main field, adding an educational or entertainment option for families.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but a user described enjoying a walk in the snow during an off-season visit.Water Sports
Tubing, kayaking, and canoeing are popular activities in the Shetucket River, accessible from the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Each site includes a firepit but lacks a grate or grill. Firewood must be purchased locally.
- Quiet hours are Not consistently enforced; users mention disruptions from noisy campers until late hours.
Hazards
General hazardsBee stings around the pool area are commonly mentioned. Coyotes have been heard at night, and some sites are described as uneven for campers.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 81%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Hospital: Greater than 10 miles. Police and Ranger Station contact number is 860-822-0884.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details about schedules or locations are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is adjacent to the Shetucket River with over one mile of waterfront access suitable for fishing, tubing, and kayaking.
Common complaintsReviews mention outdated restrooms and showers, inconsistent enforcement of rules, disruptive noise levels during weekends, and insufficient privacy between campsites.
HostReviews state that staff is friendly and accommodating but offer limited supervision during late hours.
Campground Map
173 SCOTLAND ROAD (RTE. 97), BALTIC, Connecticut, 06330, United States
Driving directionsTake Exit 83 off I-395. Go left, and follow Rte. 97 through Baltic. The campground is 2 miles north on the left, just past Salt Rock Road.
Road access is paved and accessible year-round, as it is located off major highways like I-395. There are no indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain in the provided sources.Nearby places
Baltic: 2 miles, approximately 5 minutes driving
Nearby supplies
Convenience stores, hunting supplies, and laundry are available within 10 miles of the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Salt Rock Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews paint a diverse picture of Salt Rock Campground. While many appreciate the natural setting, affordability, and range of activities, concerns include outdated facilities, minimal enforcement of rules, and noise issues on weekends.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the friendly staff, well-maintained grounds, peaceful weekday atmosphere, and family-friendly amenities such as pools and trails.
Common Concerns
Common issues include outdated restrooms and pools, lack of privacy at campsites, noise from unruly campers, and insufficient enforcement of quiet hours.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing personal recreational equipment, a grate or grill for cooking over firepits, and being prepared for potential noise on weekends. Sites near the river or shaded areas are...
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Seasonal Insights
Weekdays are quieter and more relaxing, while weekends can attract a younger, noisier crowd. Summer is popular for pool access and tubing, but spring and fall offer calmer weather for hiking and...
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Camper Quotes
"Super quiet during the week. Nice river where people and dogs can swim." - Michelle Ford. "For the price of staying here, we would definitely come back!" - Moriah Payne. "Bathrooms old but clean....
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #47 is mentioned as clean and shaded; site #71 is criticized for being small and rocky. The field sites are noted for full sun and lack of shade.
Accessibility Features
ADA accessible features are present, including restrooms and trails, but specific user experiences regarding accessibility are not extensively detailed.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and the campground is considered pet-friendly by many users. One user noted concerns about off-leash dogs.
Last updated August 10, 2025