Grandview Camping Resort

Book an RV in Middlesex County, Connecticut, and you'll be in the midst of a state packed with gorgeous forests, beaches, mountains, and parks scattered throughout its borders. Gillette Castle State Park is just 15 minutes' drive from Grandview Camping Resort. It is home to the ruins of the magnificent Gillette Castle once owned by famed stage actor William Gillette. Hundreds of thousands of visitors pour into the park each year to photograph its ruins, see the views of the Connecticut River from the castle, hike, and view wildlife. An on-site visitor center adequately describes the history of the park and the things found within. View the striking stone structure, traverse the scenic trails, and stop by Gillette's goldfish pond while exploring the unique site.

Eagle Landing State Park and Selden Neck State Park are two incredible state parks found on the mighty Connecticut River, with access to its magnificent riverbanks. Eagle Landing State Park is a beloved fishing spot, with 16 acres of river frontage and lots of space to canoe, kayak, and boat around. Selden Neck State Park is on an island in the middle of the Connecticut River, not accessible by vehicle. While RV camping is not an option here, there are four different camping areas by the water that can be used for primitive tent camping. Hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and hunting are commonly enjoyed on the small island throughout the year.

Down on the coast adjacent to the Long Island Sound, you can bring your East Haddam campervan rental to one of the various state parks on the water. Rocky Neck State Park is one of the best that Connecticut has to offer, with fantastic beaches, rocky outcroppings jutting out into the water, secluded fishing spots, and lovely ecosystems teeming with marine life. There is an excellent campground that remains popular in the summertime, and modern beach facilities like changing lockers, showers, and pavilions on the beach. There are plenty of other ways to see the state and enjoy its natural beauty, especially with the mobility that an RV rental can provide.

When you're ready for some city life while camping in East Haddam, both Hartford and New London are good options for urban sightseeing, though Middletown is a lot closer to the campground. There are lots of places to eat, shop, and explore in this mid-sized city by the river, and some neat museums, too. The Kidcity Children’s Museum is a wonderful place to bring the kids, specifically designed for children under the age of seven. Youngsters can play with model trains, learn about the natural world, engage with other kids, and quench their thirst for learning at this little museum in Middletown.

The Van Vleck Observatory is a world-class institution on a college campus, with massive telescopes and public viewings. Learn about the mysteries of deep space from professors and doctors who have dedicated their lives to studying the universe when you head into the observatory on the Wesleyan College campus.

Back in East Haddam, the East Haddam Historical Society is also a fascinating place to visit, especially for history buffs. The stories of East Haddam and Middlesex County are interesting, and visitors can view displays highlighting an array of artifacts, photographs, and information about this charming region in the Connecticut countryside.