West Thompson Lake Campground
4.59134 reviews400 REARDON RD, N. GROSVENORDALE, CT 06255-9801, USA
West Thompson Lake Campground
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The facility rates range from $15 for standard nonelectric sites to $30 for standard electric sites during peak season. Overnight shelter nonelectric rates are $20. Additional reservation fees apply.
About this campground
Nestled along the wooded shoreline of West Thompson Lake, this 24-site campground offers something for every outdoor enthusiast. Choose from 11 sites equipped with water and 30-amp electric hookups for RV travelers, 11 pristine non-electric sites perfect for tent camping and boondocking adventures, or experience traditional camping in one of two charming Adirondack lean-to shelters. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with nature, featuring accessible bathrooms with hot showers, a convenient dump station, and an amphitheater where evening programs bring the community together. Families will delight in the playground and basketball court, while nature lovers can explore interpretive trails that wind through the forest, revealing the area's rich ecosystem.
The campground includes standard electric sites, basic tent sites, and Adirondack lean-to shelters. Group camping and luxury accommodations are not available.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the perfect camping weather during peak season, when comfortable temperatures create ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Many weeks showcase brilliantly clear skies with minimal rain, allowing for uninterrupted stargazing and sunny days by the lake. The moderate climate ensures pleasant mornings for hiking and warm afternoons perfect for water activities, while cool evenings invite cozy campfire gatherings.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of towering Eastern white pines, majestic Northern red oaks, and distinctive Shagbark hickories that create a natural canopy overhead, filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Come autumn, this woodland transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the region. The diverse ecosystem surrounding the lake provides sanctuary for abundant wildlife, offering countless opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography. For the ultimate scenic experience, venture to the dam's overlook, where panoramic vistas stretch across the sparkling waters of West Thompson Lake and the rolling forested hills beyond.
Geological RegionDiscover the natural beauty of northeastern Connecticut at this lakeside retreat, where the pristine waters of West Thompson Lake meet ancient forests. The landscape tells a story written in Eastern white pines that tower overhead, Northern red oaks that have witnessed centuries pass, and Shagbark hickories with their distinctive peeling bark. From the engineering marvel of the dam, visitors are treated to sweeping panoramic views that capture the essence of New England's forested lake country, where water and woodland merge in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include accessible flush toilets and showers. However, there is only one designated accessible site, which may not always be available.
Sites SizeSites are described as large, flat, and well-maintained. One reviewer mentioned, 'The campsite was a large flat area with good drainage (No puddling, even in heavy rain).'
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy, with many reviewers praising the spacing between sites. A user commented, 'The sites are huge and are very well spaced apart with two sites worth of woods between each one.'
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 7A is not recommended for rigs longer than 40 feet due to its slope and curve. Site 2 is highly recommended for larger rigs and level ground.
Best CampsitesSite 2 is frequently praised for being level and spacious. Sites such as 3 and 4 have undergone upgrades and are well-reviewed for their condition.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM
Check-out
9:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights per visit during a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Varies by site type
- detailed capacity limits not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized in a loop with 24 sites. Sites are spaced apart, offering privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to September 6 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-ins are not allowed; reservations are required via Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed until midnight 1 day before arrival for individual sites, with a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee in case of late cancellations. Modifications to reservations are possible with some associated fees.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
West Thompson Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, boating, disc golf, and wildlife viewing. Though swimming is not permitted in the lake, nearby state parks offer swimming options.
Hiking
Hiking trails are described as beautiful and accessible. Reviewers appreciated the trails around the lake and the connection to the Quinebaug River Water Trail. One reviewer noted, 'The trails around the lake were intermediate to navigate though easy to find your way down to the water.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities include catch-and-release options in the lake, which has a population of warm-water fish such as bass and small panfish. Reviewers appreciated the peaceful fishing environment.Boating
Boating activities include kayaking and canoeing. The boat ramp provides easy access to the water, and the Thompson Section of the Quinebaug River Water Trail offers a three-hour paddle through wildlife habitats.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are excellent, with habitats around the lake providing sightings of deer and other animals. One reviewer mentioned seeing a deer while walking to the lake.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular water sports at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed; firewood can be purchased at the gatehouse for $5 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are 9 PM - 8 AM
Hazards
General hazardsSome sites may pose challenges for large rigs due to curves and slopes, e.g., site 7A. Yellow jacket nests have been reported near stump areas like site 8.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Emergency services including hospitals and police stations are located in nearby cities such as Putnam (approx. 5 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 6
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are well-maintained. Reviewers did not report issues with waste management.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is close to West Thompson Lake, which is ideal for fishing, boating, and kayaking. A boat ramp is available nearby.
Common complaintsDifficulty navigating large rigs into certain sites and the earlier gate closure time of 9 PM are recurring concerns in reviews.
HostHosts are described as friendly, helpful, and attentive by multiple reviewers.
Campground Map
400 REARDON RD, N. GROSVENORDALE, CT 06255-9801, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-395, take Exit 50. Follow CT Route 200 east to Thompson Center. Turn right onto CT Route 193 south and proceed 2 miles to the traffic light. Continue straight over the railroad tracks on Route 12. Take the first right onto Reardon Road. In 0.5 miles turn left onto West Thompson Lake Recreation Road and travel approximately 1,000 feet to the campground entrance on the right. Follow up to the Campground Registration Building.
Road access is relatively straightforward from major roads such as I-395. The directions include clear landmarks such as railroad tracks and specific turns, ensuring good accessibility.Nearby places
N. Grosvenordale (2 miles), Putnam (approx. 5 miles), Thompson (approx. 5 miles)
Nearby supplies
Putnam, CT (approx. 5 miles) offers grocery stores, restaurants, and camping essentials. Famous Frank's is a recommended eatery nearby.
Camper Reviews
4.6
134 reviews
West Thompson Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
West Thompson Lake Campground receives high praise for its quiet atmosphere, clean facilities, and friendly hosts. Many reviews highlight the spacious sites, well-maintained amenities, and reasonable pricing.
Review Summaries
Based on 134 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean showers and bathrooms, well-spaced and large campsites, helpful and friendly hosts, availability of cheap firewood, and peaceful environment.
Based on 134 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some sites are not suitable for larger RVs, the entrance gate closes early at 9 PM, swimming is prohibited, and occasional reports of poor site leveling.
Based on 134 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring leveling equipment if using an RV. Visit nearby Quaddick State Park for swimming. Purchase firewood on-site for $5 per bundle. Plan to explore the hiking trails and disc golf course.
Based on 134 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Campground is highly recommended during summer months, although it closes early in the fall season. Reviews indicate fewer visitors during early spring and late fall, but also highlight the beauty of...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Lovely campground, rangers and hosts were very friendly and attentive.' - Bruce Aldrich 2. 'Bathrooms and showers were clean and cleaned every day.' - Robert Ferguson 3. 'Fire pits had fairly...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 2 is described as level and roomy. Site 7A is not recommended for large RVs due to its tight turn and slope. Site 8 has yellow jackets nesting in a stump located centrally.
Based on 134 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground provides accessible flush toilets and showers, but has only one designated accessible campsite, which may not always be available.
Based on 134 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, and reviewers have noted that the environment is pet-friendly with well-maintained trails for walking.
Based on 134 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025