Vermont and New Hampshire state parks near North Walpole offer camping options from May through October, with several staying open until Columbus Day weekend. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 500-1,200 feet, creating moderate temperature shifts between day and night. The Connecticut River valley creates natural boundaries between camping areas with terrain varying from riverside flats to wooded hillsides.
What to do
River activities: At Ashuelot River Campground, the slow-moving water creates ideal tubing conditions. "We took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit," shares one camper who visited in fall. Kayak and canoe rentals available on-site.
Mountain biking: The trail network at Mount Ascutney State Park offers routes for various skill levels. "The state park maintains its own mountain biking trail loop, which is accessible directly from the campground. It is a 3 mile beginner friendly loop, with some nice rollers and moderate terrain," notes a visitor. More advanced trails available at the Mount Ascutney Outdoor Center about 10 minutes away.
Swimming spots: Several natural swimming areas exist throughout the region. Buttermere Falls near Okemo provides a refreshing alternative when lake swimming isn't ideal. One camper at Tree Farm Campground mentioned, "We found the awesome swimming hole at Buttermere falls next to Okemo." Local swimming holes typically have no entrance fees but limited facilities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Pillsbury State Park Campground offers wooded separation that enhances the camping experience. "The site features a 200ft(60yd) hike in on a rustic trail. At the end of the trail you are greeted with a nice private site, and an equally spectacular view of the Vickery Pond," explains one visitor about site 1A. The trade-off for privacy is often a longer walk to water sources and restrooms.
Multi-use trails: Many campgrounds feature trails accessible directly from campsites. At Jamaica State Park Campground, campers appreciate the trail diversity. "We hiked the west river trail (which leads right out of the campground) to Hamilton falls which is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail which then leads up hill for another mile to the falls," reports one visitor, who also warns about safety precautions needed at the waterfall.
Quiet atmosphere: Several dog friendly campgrounds near North Walpole maintain peaceful environments. "This place is so relaxing and family friendly at the same time. The river is a constant lovely background sound and is wonderful to swim or just play in," notes a Winhall Brook visitor. Campgrounds typically quiet down significantly after 9pm with noise regulations enforced.
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Many state parks offer basic amenities only. Pillsbury State Park features pit toilets and limited cell service. "A jewel! Quiet, beautiful small lake/pond great for paddling," writes one visitor, while another notes "Vermont parks are just some the most lush you've ever seen." Sites typically cost $20-30 per night for non-residents.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience highway sound. At Mount Ascutney State Park, Interstate 91 is audible from certain sites. "We were in site 27 and it was a beautiful site but the road noise from interstate 91 was extremely loud. Otherwise, this campground was perfect! There is a loop designated for tents only (sites 19-24) where the road noise is considerable less," advises one camper.
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly in spring and fall. "Our trip was a bit 'dampened' by an extremely rainy Memorial Day weekend, but what we did see was beautiful," shares a Mount Ascutney visitor. Most campgrounds have limited covered areas, so bringing tarps or shelters is recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: When taking children swimming, check conditions first. A Pillsbury State Park camper warns, "Swimming in the stream is safe but the lake is loaded with leeches!" This practical information helps families choose appropriate swimming locations based on comfort levels and ages.
Playground access: Winhall Brook Camping Area offers kid-friendly recreation spaces. "Huge volleyball and sports meadow. Nice pavilion," notes one regular visitor who stays for two weeks each summer. Another mentions, "They had just had a series of rainstorms before we arrived so the river was able to be tubed down for a couple days."
Family-oriented activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular events. "The campground is clean and quiet, with sites that are spacious and private. There's a cozy lounge room to hang out in with games, books, crayons, and puzzles," reports a Tree Farm Campground visitor, highlighting indoor options for rainy days.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. Caton Place Campground receives mixed reviews about RV access. "The roads aren't wide enough to take a motorhome into. The pull through site is not level and is barely long enough to fit my 43' rig. Driving out of the site was just as bad. You have to go down a small hill and bottom out the front and then drag the backend out of the dirt," warns one RVer, contrasting with others who had positive experiences.
Hookup availability: While most state parks lack full hookups, private campgrounds typically offer them. "We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was level and easy to get into and park. We were in a fully wooded area on the left side of the campground," shares an Ashuelot River Campground visitor who appreciated the ease of setup.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through October. Calling ahead for late or early season camping is recommended as services may be limited during shoulder seasons. One camper noted Ashuelot River Campground was "not busy" during off-season visits, making it ideal for those seeking quieter experiences.
Ranger
