Waters Edge Family Campground

- 271 Leonard Bridge Rd, Lebanon, CT 06249

Introduction / Overview

For Connecticut residents seeking a classic, community-focused camping experience right in the heart of Eastern Connecticut, Water’s Edge Family Campground in Lebanon is a long-standing, well-known destination. The campground, which typically operates seasonally from April 15th to October 15th, is set on a sprawling 98-acre property, anchored by a beautiful, clean, 10-acre spring-fed lake. It offers a variety of camping options, from spacious short-term sites to highly sought-after seasonal spots, including some of the largest seasonal sites in the state.

Water’s Edge is designed specifically with families in mind, providing a host of daily activities and amenities that cater to all age groups. It operates on a foundation of fostering community and providing a comfortable 'home away from home' for seasonal campers who return year after year. The atmosphere is generally described as friendly and laid-back, blending the tranquility of nature with the fun and structure of planned activities. While it maintains a reputation as a great family spot with clean facilities and friendly owners—often noted for their dedicated management—it is also a bustling community with a strong seasonal presence, offering a unique dynamic that is embraced by its long-term residents.

Whether you are looking for a weekend to enjoy the sandy beach and clear lake water or planning an entire season of fun, Water's Edge aims to provide a memorable New England camping experience characterized by outdoor fun, convenient services, and a vibrant community life.

Location and Accessibility

Water’s Edge Family Campground is located at 271 Leonard Bridge Rd, Lebanon, CT 06249, USA. Lebanon’s location in the quiet, scenic part of New London County places the campground far enough from major urban centers to feel like a true retreat, yet close enough for easy accessibility for Connecticut locals.

The campground is conveniently situated within a reasonable driving distance of major routes, allowing for easy access from many parts of the state, including the Hartford and New Haven areas. This central-eastern Connecticut location also provides excellent proximity to some of the state’s most popular day-trip destinations. Campers can take advantage of nearby attractions such as Mystic Aquarium and Mystic Seaport, the historical Revolutionary War Office, Gillette Castle State Park, and the thrilling entertainment of Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resorts Casino. Additionally, local events like the Lebanon Country Fair, the Hebron Harvest Fair, and the Podunk Bluegrass Music Festival are all within a short, scenic drive, offering great opportunities to explore the local culture. The location truly offers a 'best of both worlds' scenario: secluded natural beauty with easy access to regional excitement.

Services Offered

Water’s Edge Family Campground is well-equipped to ensure a comfortable stay, whether you arrive in a large RV or prefer a cabin rental. The facilities and services focus on providing all necessary comforts alongside opportunities for recreation and convenience.

• Campsite Hookups: Sites are equipped with electricity (20/30/50-amp options available) and water hookups, with many offering full services. Sites vary from wooded and shaded to open field layouts.
• Seasonal and Short-Term Stays: The park offers daily, weekly, monthly, and seasonal camping, with the seasonal sites being among the most popular and largest in the state.
• Rental Units: For those without an RV, the campground offers various rental options, including fully-equipped Park Model Trailers (some lakeside) and rustic Camping Cabins with air conditioning and cable TV, providing an accessible way to enjoy the camping lifestyle.
• Essential Facilities: Modern, clean restrooms and shower facilities are provided, along with a dedicated Laundry Facility and an RV Dumping Station.
• Camp Store: A well-stocked on-site store carries grocery essentials, souvenirs, camping supplies, ice, wood, charcoal, and Propane for purchase.
• Group Camping Area: A dedicated ‘Safari Field’ is available for group camping, along with a shared pavilion and shared firepits, making it ideal for large family gatherings or organizational outings.
• Free Park-Wide WiFi: Complimentary WiFi access is provided across the park, allowing guests to stay connected, share their experiences, and keep up with their email.
• Pet Amenities: The campground is pet-friendly and features a dedicated ‘Bark Park’—a spacious dog park for pets to play and stretch their legs.

Features / Highlights

The heart of the Water’s Edge experience lies in its unique natural setting and the extensive program of activities and features designed to keep everyone entertained.

• Spring-Fed Lake and Sandy Beach: The 10-acre spring-fed lake is a central feature, offering a sandy beach for sunbathing and swimming. The lake is also stocked for “catch & release” fishing, and pedal and row boat rentals are available for enjoying time on the water.
• Swimming Pool: In addition to the lake, guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the 30’ x 50’ Swimming Pool.
• Daily and Themed Activities: The campground is renowned for its packed schedule of planned activities, especially on weekends and holidays. These include children’s games, crafts programs, hayrides, dances with DJs, bingo for all ages (including high-stakes adult bingo), potluck suppers, pig roasts, and popular Golf Cart Parades.
• Recreation Hall: A large Recreation Hall houses indoor fun, including video games, billiards tables, and an air hockey table, serving as a hub for evening and rainy-day entertainment.
• Sports and Games: Outdoor recreation areas include two separate Playground Areas for children, a Lighted Full-Court Basketball court, Lighted Horseshoe Pits, Cornhole Boards, and Ga-Ga Ball.
• Community Focus: A strong highlight is the community feel, particularly among the many seasonal campers who often return year after year. The campground encourages interaction through its many social events like taco dinners, steak and lobster dinners, and campfire gatherings.
• Nearby Hiking Access: The campground is close to the scenic Air Line State Park Trail, offering an excellent, easily accessible opportunity for walking, running, and biking on a former rail trail.

Contact Information

To inquire about rates, seasonal availability, or to book a short-term stay, Connecticut residents can contact the Water’s Edge Family Campground office directly:

Address: 271 Leonard Bridge Rd, Lebanon, CT 06249, USA

Phone: (860) 642-7470

Mobile Phone: +1 860-642-7470

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Water’s Edge Family Campground is an outstanding choice for Connecticut locals because it perfectly captures the quintessential New England family camping experience while remaining conveniently located. For families, the sheer volume of daily activities, the dual water features of a clean pool and a beautiful lake beach, and the two dedicated playground areas mean children will always find something fun and engaging to do. This allows parents to relax, whether by taking a quiet stroll around the lake or joining in on a social evening event.

Moreover, for residents seeking a true seasonal getaway without the hassle of a distant commute, Water’s Edge offers one of the strongest seasonal communities in the state. The ability to establish a 'home away from home' from April to October provides an affordable, convenient second vacation spot. While the seasonal nature of the park creates a unique, close-knit atmosphere, it also requires that potential visitors understand and respect the established community dynamics. This unique blend of family fun, strong community, and easy accessibility to Eastern Connecticut’s best attractions—from Mystic to Mohegan Sun—makes Water’s Edge Family Campground a continuously popular and cherished local option for building lasting memories.

Waters Edge Family Campground

271 Leonard Bridge Rd, Lebanon, CT 06249, USA