Laurel-Lock Campground

For Connecticut residents searching for that perfect blend of natural beauty, community spirit, and comprehensive amenities, Laurel-Lock Campground in Oakdale stands out as an exceptional choice. Nestled on the shores of picturesque Gardner Lake, the third largest natural lake in Connecticut, this campground offers more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it provides a true sense of belonging. Many local families, like those who have called it their seasonal home for years, speak passionately about the "true community with wonderful staff and campers" that makes Laurel-Lock feel like an extended family. If you're looking for a clean, organized, and engaging camping experience right here in our beautiful state, Laurel-Lock Campground consistently delivers on its promise of a happy and healthy environment for its guests.

Laurel-Lock Campground's reputation is built on its commitment to maintaining impeccable facilities, from "very clean" restrooms to a "super clean beach" on its spring-fed lake. The spectacular sunsets over Gardner Lake are a highlight that campers eagerly anticipate returning to each season. Beyond the serene natural setting, the campground truly comes alive with its "great activities" and "outstanding" bands that perform several times a year, fostering a vibrant community spirit. This family-owned and operated campground, now in its 4th and 5th generations, has been welcoming campers since 1967, upholding a tradition of sharing the natural beauty of its lakeside property while creating memorable experiences for all who visit.

Laurel-Lock Campground is ideally located at 15 Cottage Rd, Oakdale, CT 06370, USA. This address places it in Southeastern Connecticut, offering a prime lakeside setting on the shores of Gardner Lake. For Connecticut residents, its location provides a convenient escape to nature without a lengthy journey.

Gardner Lake is a significant natural feature, being the third largest natural lake in Connecticut. This offers campers expansive opportunities for water-based recreation right at their doorstep. The campground occupies over 1,000 feet of lakeshore, providing stunning views and direct access to the water. In terms of regional accessibility, Oakdale is situated near major routes, making it an easy drive from cities like Norwich (just 6 minutes away), Hartford (approximately 39 minutes), New Haven (around 42 minutes), and even Providence, RI (about 54 minutes). This strategic location means that while campers can enjoy the secluded beauty of the lake, they are also within a reasonable driving distance of local amenities, dining options, and attractions such as the Mohegan Sun Casino and The Dinosaur Place at Nature's Art Village. This blend of natural tranquility and convenient access makes Laurel-Lock a highly appealing choice for local Connecticut campers.

Laurel-Lock Campground offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience for both seasonal and provisional (overnight) campers.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground offers 130 sites, accommodating trailers, RVs, and tents. Sites are available as naturally wooded or open spaces.
• Seasonal Hookups: Seasonal sites come equipped with water, sewer, expanded basic cable, and electric meter service, providing a true home-away-from-home feel. Fireplaces and picnic tables are also included.
• Provisional Site Hookups: Provisional (overnight) sites typically offer water, electric, and cable hookups.
• On-site Dump Station: Available for waste disposal needs, particularly for provisional campers without sewer hookups at their site.
• Flush Toilets & Showers: Clean, modern flush toilets and showers are conveniently located throughout the campground for guest use.
• Two Swimming & Beach Areas: Near the shore, there are two distinct swimming and beach areas: one designated for families and another for adults only, ensuring a suitable environment for all guests.
• Boat Launch & Docks: For water sports enthusiasts, a boat launch and docks are available. Dock slips can be rented daily, weekly, or seasonally.
• Boat Rentals: Kayaks ($5/hour, $15 for ½ day) and canoes ($10/hour, $30 for ½ day) are available for rent to campers and their guests.
• Camp Store: A well-stocked camp store offers camping staples such as ice, firewood (local only), propane gas, various groceries, candy, ice cream, and soda.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs (maximum two, vaccinated, leashed, quiet) are welcome at campsites, although guests of campers are not permitted to bring pets.
• Guest Policy: Day guests and overnight guests are welcome but must register and pay fees at the office upon arrival.
• Planned Recreation: The campground offers planned recreational activities on weekends, including live bands several times a year.

Laurel-Lock Campground's appeal is significantly enhanced by its array of distinctive features and highlights, catering to both relaxation and active recreation.

• Gardner Lake Access: Boasting over 1,000 feet of lakeshore on Gardner Lake, Connecticut's third largest natural lake, guests have unparalleled access to swimming, boating, and fishing.
• Spring-Fed Lake & Clean Beaches: The lake is spring-fed, contributing to its cleanliness, and the beaches are consistently maintained to be "super clean."
• Spectacular Sunsets: A recurring highlight from reviews is the "spectacular" sunsets over Gardner Lake, offering breathtaking natural beauty.
• Strong Community Spirit: Campers emphasize the "true community" and "family atmosphere" fostered by wonderful staff and fellow campers.
• Live Bands & Entertainment: The campground hosts "outstanding" live bands several times a year, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere for guests.
• Diverse Recreational Activities: A wide range of on-site activities includes swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, basketball, volleyball, shuffleboard, cornhole, badminton, softball, horseshoes, hay rides, and bingo.
• Miniature Golf: An enjoyable activity for all ages, perfect for family fun.
• Adults-Only Beach Area: Providing a quiet retreat, a separate beach area is designated exclusively for adults.
• Year-Round Winter Storage: On-site winter storage for trailers is available for a fee, offering convenience for seasonal campers.
• Family-Owned & Operated: The campground has been in the same family since 1921 (opened as a campground in 1967), now managed by the 4th and 5th generations, which contributes to its consistent quality and personal touch.

While specific, short-term promotional codes like "GONECAMPING" or discounts for military/first responders might be found on third-party booking sites (which may or may not be directly offered by Laurel-Lock, but rather by the booking platform), Laurel-Lock Campground primarily emphasizes its competitive seasonal and provisional rates, along with its comprehensive amenities as a value proposition.

• Seasonal Rates: Seasonal sites start at $4,500 and include water, expanded basic cable, sewer, metered electric service, a fireplace, and a picnic table. A one-time $400 security deposit is required for new seasonal rentals. Winter storage for trailers is available for $250.
• Overnight (Provisional) Site Rates: Typically range from $70 - $75 per night, with a 2-night minimum on weekends. Holiday rates add $5 per night and require a 3-night minimum.
• Guest Fees: Day guests are $8/day, and overnight guests are an additional $7/day. Seasonal passes ($200/person) and two-week passes ($75 for guests staying up to 2 consecutive weeks) are available.
• Boating Rates: Seasonal motorboat fees are $150, while canoes, kayaks, small sailboats, and paddleboards are $50 seasonally or $5 for weekenders. Dock fees range from $500 to $750 seasonally, or $20/day for weekenders.

For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, availability, and any potential current specials, it is always best for Connecticut residents to directly contact Laurel-Lock Campground via phone or visit their official website. They can provide detailed information on rates for specific dates, site types, and any packages that might be available.

For reservations, inquiries about site availability (including seasonal spots), or any other questions regarding Laurel-Lock Campground, Connecticut residents can easily get in touch with their welcoming staff using the following contact details:

• Address: 15 Cottage Rd, Oakdale, CT 06370, USA
• Phone: (860) 859-1424
• Mobile Phone: +1 860-859-1424

The office is staffed in-season during the week from 11 AM to 6 PM. It is highly recommended to call the campground directly, especially when planning your visit during peak seasons or holidays, to confirm availability and discuss any specific requirements for your campsite or any details about seasonal camping. Given the consistent positive reviews about the friendly and helpful staff, direct communication is the best way to ensure a smooth booking process and a pleasant stay.

For residents of Connecticut, Laurel-Lock Campground in Oakdale presents an exceptionally suitable and highly cherished option for both short-term getaways and long-term seasonal enjoyment. Its prime location on Gardner Lake, the third largest natural lake in the state, offers unparalleled access to a beautiful, spring-fed body of water. This means local families can enjoy swimming on "super clean" beaches, boating, and fishing right at their doorstep, fulfilling that desire for a true Connecticut lakeside experience without extensive travel.

What truly sets Laurel-Lock apart for locals is the profound sense of "true community" and "family atmosphere" that permeates the campground. Reviews consistently highlight the "wonderful staff and campers" who create a welcoming and inclusive environment. This isn't just a place to camp; it's a place where lasting friendships are formed and annual traditions are born, making it feel like an extension of your own family and community. The array of on-site activities, from miniature golf and various sports to outstanding live bands and organized events, ensures that there's always something to do for all ages, keeping both kids and adults entertained throughout their stay.

Furthermore, the option for seasonal camping is a significant draw for Connecticut residents who wish to establish a long-term summer retreat without the commitment of owning a separate vacation property. The consistently clean facilities, dedicated adult and family beach areas, and the breathtaking "spectacular sunsets" over Gardner Lake solidify Laurel-Lock Campground as a top-tier choice. For any Connecticut resident seeking a combination of natural beauty, extensive amenities, and a warm, community-driven atmosphere for their camping adventures, Laurel-Lock Campground truly stands out as a local gem.

Laurel-Lock Campground

15 Cottage Rd, Oakdale, CT 06370, USA