Markham Meadows Campground

markham meadows campground ct

For Connecticut locals, discovering a campground that truly feels like a second home, where every visit creates lasting memories, is a real find. Markham Meadows Campground in East Hampton, CT, consistently earns this distinction, emerging as a favorite for families and seasonal campers across the state. This isn't just a place to park your RV; it's a vibrant community nestled in 100 acres of beautiful Connecticut farmland, offering a perfect blend of rustic charm, modern amenities, and engaging activities.

Imagine spending your weekends enjoying themed events, watching your kids delight in trick-or-treating or pumpkin painting, or simply relaxing by a campfire, surrounded by friendly faces. Markham Meadows Campground has perfected the art of creating a welcoming environment, where even new visitors feel part of the extended camping family. With its well-maintained sites, a refreshing pool, and convenient access to local attractions, it promises an experience that goes beyond typical camping. For those in Connecticut seeking a consistent, high-quality, and genuinely fun outdoor escape for a weekend or an entire season, Markham Meadows Campground stands out as the ultimate local favorite, promising unforgettable adventures right here in our own backyard.

Markham Meadows Campground is ideally located at 9 Markham Rd, East Hampton, CT 06424, USA. This address places it in the heart of scenic central Connecticut, surrounded by picturesque farmland, historic stonewalls, and the oldest barn in the area. East Hampton is a charming town in Middlesex County, known for its tranquil environment and convenient access to various natural and cultural attractions.

For Connecticut locals, reaching Markham Meadows is a straightforward drive from various parts of the state:

• From Hartford: The campground is approximately a 30-40 minute drive southeast, typically via CT-2 E.
• From New Haven: Expect a drive of about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes northeast, generally taking I-91 N or I-95 N and then connecting to local routes.
• From New London/Mystic: The drive is relatively short, usually around 45 minutes to 1 hour northwest, making it a convenient option for coastal residents looking for a rural retreat.
• From Stamford/Fairfield County: While a bit further, the drive is manageable, typically around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes, primarily via major interstates like I-95 N or CT-15 N (Merritt Parkway) and then heading eastward.

The central location of Markham Meadows also provides excellent accessibility to a variety of regional points of interest. It's centrally located between Hartford and New London, making it a convenient base for exploring both urban amenities and coastal attractions. Nearby, campers can discover state parks like Day Pond State Park and Hurd State Park, offering hiking trails and natural beauty. The area also boasts charming local restaurants and unique attractions like the Comstock Covered Bridge. The campground's setting amidst streams, creeks, and ponds offers immediate natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate both on-site amenities and nearby exploration.

Markham Meadows Campground offers a comprehensive suite of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable, convenient, and entertaining experience for all guests, from short-term visitors to long-term seasonal campers.

• Diverse Site Options: The campground primarily offers RV sites, including pull-through and slide-out friendly options. These sites come with full hookups (water, sewer, and electricity – 20/30/50 amp), ensuring maximum convenience for RVers. While past information mentioned tent sites, their current website states, "Please note, we no longer offer tent camping," indicating a focus on RVs and cabins.
• King George’s Cabin: For "glampers" or those without an RV, the "King George’s Cabin" provides a comfortable and very clean alternative to traditional camping. It comes with some bedding (pillows and bottom sheets), but guests should bring towels, toiletries, and extra bedding.
• Swimming Pool: A large and popular swimming pool provides a refreshing way to beat the summer heat and is a central gathering point for relaxation and fun.
• Two Ponds with Activities: The campground features two ponds, with one offering a beach and swimming area (Pete's Pond). Free kayaks and paddleboat rentals are available, providing enjoyable water activities. Catch and release fishing is also permitted in the ponds.
• Clean Restrooms & Hot Showers: Meticulously maintained and clean restrooms with hot showers are provided, ensuring essential comforts for all campers.
• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities are available, which is a significant convenience for longer stays.
• General Store & Snack Bar: A well-stocked general store offers basic necessities, camping supplies, and treats, while a snack bar provides convenient refreshments after a day of activities.
• Recreation & Entertainment:
  • Arcade & Game Room: An arcade and game room provide indoor entertainment, especially popular with kids.
  • Playscape: A dedicated playscape (playground) offers a safe and fun area for younger children.
  • Paved Ball Court: A paved court is available for basketball and other ball games.
  • Lending Library: A lending library provides books for quiet relaxation.
  • Weekend Entertainment & Planned Activities: Markham Meadows is renowned for its organized weekend activities, which can include live bands, themed events (like early Halloween with trick-or-treating, hay rides, and pumpkin painting), and other scheduled fun, catering to all ages.
• Connectivity: Free WiFi and Direct TV are offered on-site, allowing guests to stay connected and entertained.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground is pet-friendly, allowing dogs on leashes, with specific rules and restrictions.
• Fire Rings & Picnic Tables: Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring, essential for outdoor dining and campfires.
• LP Gas & Dump Station: Services for LP gas and a departure dumping station are available for RV convenience.

Markham Meadows Campground distinguishes itself as a premier camping destination in Connecticut through several key features and highlights that consistently receive praise from its guests.

• Outstanding Themed Weekend Activities: This is arguably the biggest highlight. Reviewers rave about the "bunch of activities centered around an early Halloween including trick-or-treating, a hay ride (no hay, probably good for allergies), pumpkin painting, and a band." The campground's commitment to "really well done" and frequent weekend entertainment creates a vibrant, engaging atmosphere that delights families and fosters a strong sense of community.
• Spacious & Well-Maintained Sites: Campers consistently report that the RV sites are "in good shape and a good size," providing ample space and a comfortable camping experience. The campground is also described as "scattered throughout the forested park, with a distinctly rustic feel and plenty of tree cover," offering both privacy and natural beauty.
• Welcoming & Friendly Atmosphere: Despite having "a lot of seasonal campers," the environment is "certainly wasn't cliquey and everyone was friendly." This inclusive and warm atmosphere makes new visitors feel welcome and contributes significantly to the overall positive experience. The staff is consistently described as "friendly and helpful" and "wonderful and very kind."
• Excellent Glamping Option (King George's Cabin): For those who prefer more comfort, the "King George’s cabin" is highlighted as "perfect for any 'glamper'," being "very clean and comfortable." This offers a fantastic alternative for guests who want the campground experience without owning an RV or tent.
• Fantastic Water Amenities: The "nice pool" and "lake- lots of fun for kids" are major draws. The availability of free kayaks and paddleboats on Pete's Pond adds significant recreational value, along with catch and release fishing.
• Central Location for Exploration: Reviewers note the campground's "great central location to lots of hiking and sightseeing in the surrounding areas." This makes it an ideal base for exploring various attractions across central and eastern Connecticut.
• Comprehensive Amenities: Beyond the main highlights, the provision of full hookups, clean restrooms and hot showers, laundry facilities, a general store, snack bar, arcade, playscape, and WiFi/Cable TV ensures that campers have everything they need for a comfortable and convenient stay.
• "Favorite" Status for Many: The testament from a reviewer stating that after staying at "a few other campgrounds pretty close by... this became our favorite," speaks volumes about the overall quality and appealing experience Markham Meadows provides.

Based on the available public information and customer reviews, Markham Meadows Campground does offer specific promotions, particularly for longer stays and certain seasonal periods. These are clearly outlined on their website's "2025 Rates" and "2023 Camping Specials" pages.

• Nightly, Weekly, and Monthly Rates: The campground provides tiered pricing, making longer stays more economical. For 2025, nightly rates are $70 (including electric), weekly rates are $450 (including electric), and monthly rates are $1100 (including electric). These rates also include WiFi, cable, water, and departure dumping station access.
• Seasonal Rates: For those looking for a prolonged Connecticut escape, seasonal rates are available at $3,400 (plus electric), with pond view sites at $3,600 (plus electric). This is a popular option, as reviews mention "a lot of seasonal campers."
• Holiday Rates: Specific holiday weekend rates are $300. It's always best to confirm which holidays this applies to.
• Past Themed Weekend Specials (e.g., 2023 Examples): While these specific dates might change, the campground has previously offered "Weekend Camping Only (includes electricity)" specials like:
  • Spring Fling: (e.g., April 28th - May 21st, 2023) for $450.
  • June Jam: (e.g., June 2nd - 25th, 2023) for $475.
  • Fall Frolic: (e.g., September 8th - October 1st, 2023) for $450.
  These indicate a pattern of offering bundled weekend rates during shoulder seasons, which often coincide with their popular themed activities. It's advisable for locals to check the "2025 Activities" or "2025 Rates" sections of their website or call directly for current seasonal specials.
• No Tent Camping: It's important to note their explicit statement: "Please note, we no longer offer tent camping." This indicates that promotions will be focused on RV sites and their King George's cabin.

For the most accurate and current information on any promotions or special offers, especially for upcoming seasons and themed weekends, it is highly recommended to directly contact Markham Meadows Campground using the provided phone numbers or visit their official website.

For all inquiries, reservations, or to learn more about this exceptional camping destination, please use the following contact information:

Address: 9 Markham Rd, East Hampton, CT 06424, USA

Phone: (860) 267-9738

Mobile Phone: +1 860-267-9738

Their friendly and helpful staff are ready to assist you with booking your RV site or glamping cabin and provide details on all the activities and amenities that make Markham Meadows Campground a favorite for Connecticut locals.

For locals in Connecticut, Markham Meadows Campground is exceptionally well-suited as a go-to destination for a number of compelling reasons. Its central location in East Hampton makes it easily accessible from most parts of the state, allowing for convenient weekend trips or longer seasonal stays without extensive travel. This accessibility means less time on the road and more time enjoying the numerous amenities and activities.

The campground's strong emphasis on family-friendly, well-organized weekend activities, including popular themed events like early Halloween celebrations, directly caters to the desire of many Connecticut families for engaging and memorable experiences close to home. The "friendly and helpful" staff and the welcoming atmosphere, even with a strong seasonal camper presence, ensure that new visitors feel instantly at ease and part of the community, fostering a sense of belonging that encourages return visits. Furthermore, the availability of spacious, full-hookup RV sites and a comfortable "glamping" cabin (King George's Cabin) means there's a perfect option for various preferences, making it ideal for Connecticut residents who own RVs or want a step up from traditional tent camping. With clean facilities, a refreshing pool, and access to ponds for swimming and kayaking, Markham Meadows provides a complete and consistently high-quality camping experience that truly makes it a local favorite for a fun and relaxing escape within the Nutmeg State.

Markham Meadows Campground

9 Markham Rd, East Hampton, CT 06424, USA