Top Camping Hidden Gems in Connecticut Camping Gems - Connecticut Bushnell Park in Hartford Started in 1854, this lovely 37-acre park features over 600 trees, some of which were planted over 100 years ago. As you stroll the grounds, you'll also find the 116-foot tall Soldiers & Sailors Civil War Memorial, a mini-public art gallery, and a hand carved Carousel built in 1914.  (Off I-84 between Elm and Jewel Streets, downtown, 860-522-6400) Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center (10 Deerfield Rd., Route 243 or Route 115, Ansonia, CT, 203-736-9360) As you stroll around this 104-acre park, you'll find native fern and wildflower gardens, a hummingbird-butterfly garden, and more than 2 miles of nature trails. Before you head out you might want to grab your fishing license, rod and reel, and loaded picnic basket because they also have great places for a lazy lunch and fishing. Deep River Ride a riverboat on the Connecticut River or take a ferry ride to Gillette Castle, built by William Gillette, the actor who played Sherlock Holmes for many years. The river is a great spot to enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or boating. Afterward, tour the quaint antique shops and stop off for afternoon tea. Audubon Center at Bent of the River This phenomenal, 700-acre nature center and wildlife sanctuary is set on the Pomperaug River, near the Housatonic River.  With a wide variety of eco-systems within its boarders, the Bent's 15 miles of trails will lead you though forests, grasslands, pools, red maple swamps, and old meadows.  You'll spot a number of birds, animals, and native plants on your tour. Literary Travels Mark Twain - To see where the famous author lived, head to 351 Farmington Ave and the Mark Twain House, 860-493-6411. Built by Twain in 1874, this 19-room Victorian mansion was decorated by Tiffany and Associated Artist in 1881. During the 17 years he lived here, Twain wrote seven major works. In fact it was in this home that the very popular Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn sprang to life. Noah Webster - If you've ever depended on a Webster dictionary to get you out of a spelling jam, you'll want to tour the Noah Webster House, 227 South Main Street, West Hartford, 860-521-5362. As costumed docents take you through Noah's birthplace, you will learn about the life of the author of the Blue-Backed Speller and first American Dictionary.