Cabins near Ascutney, Vermont range from basic lean-tos with outdoor cooking facilities to more developed accommodations with indoor amenities. The area sits in the Connecticut River Valley with elevation changes that create diverse terrain for hiking and water activities. Winter cabin rentals typically require reservations 3-6 months in advance, with summer bookings filling even earlier due to proximity to popular attractions.
What to do
Hike to Winturri Shelter: The Winturri Backcountry Shelter on the AT in Vermont offers access to a section of the Appalachian Trail with tent camping options. "The shelter is on the larger side and could fit maybe 6-8 folks. There were lots of tent camping spots as you worked up the hill perpendicular to the shelter," notes Justin P.
Visit Deer Leap Overlook: From Gifford Woods State Park Campground, take a moderate 2.5-mile hike to scenic mountain views. "For a shorter or less-intensive hike, walk about 2.5 miles to the Deer Leap Overlook for some incredible views of the mountain ranges nearby," suggests Kyle R.
Water activities: Several cabin rental locations offer river access for swimming and fishing. "This campground has nice, quiet, shaded riverside sites and other sites options as well," reports Brenda H. about Crow's Nest Campground.
Winter activities: Many cabin rentals remain open through winter for access to nearby skiing at Killington, approximately 30 minutes from several cabin locations. Rental sites with woodstoves often book months in advance for winter weekends.
What campers like
Riverside relaxation: Cabins adjacent to water features remain popular for their natural setting. At Winhall Brook Camping Area, campers appreciate "beautiful scenery. The brook is clean and a nice place to spend some time," according to Neal C.
Varied accommodation options: The region offers everything from basic cabins to more equipped options. "The trailer is very clean and the communal kitchen area is well appointed," mentions Claudia R. about Good Night Moon Vintage.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards receive consistent praise across properties. At Quechee-Pine Valley KOA, visitors note "this KOA is what you expect from a KOA– lots of amenities, sites of all sizes and levels of cost, tons of activities, and in a vacation destination area."
Proximity to attractions: Cabin locations provide strategic access to regional highlights. "Great location with easy access to the Gorge. Bathroom were clean and the grounds were quite at night," reports Douglas L.
What you should know
Reservation timing: For peak summer and fall foliage seasons, cabin reservations should be made 6-9 months in advance. Winter weekends often require 3-4 month advance planning.
Variable amenities: Cabin facilities differ dramatically between properties. "The campground is more for seasonal campers. Bathroom is outdated. Only one shower towards the end of the bathroom, a bit dark and dirty," notes Anqi Z. about Caton Place Campground.
Site selection considerations: Some cabin sites offer more privacy than others. "The sites on the lower loop are closer together. Get a site in the upper loop if you can," advises Emil about Gifford Woods State Park.
Access limitations: Not all cabin locations accommodate larger vehicles. "This campground is not big rig friendly. You have to go down a small hill and bottom out the front and then drag the backend out of the dirt," warns Jim B.
Tips for camping with families
Plan family activities: Many cabin locations offer structured programs for children during summer months. "Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee)," shares Jen B.
Swimming options: Camp Plymouth State Park Campground provides designated swimming areas suitable for children. "This Park has a huge beach and picnic area with a snack bar and boat rentals. We made a day of it and enjoyed the whole shebang!" reports M.A.D. P.
Noise considerations: Some cabin locations experience road noise that may disturb light sleepers. "Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant," mentions B about Quechee State Park.
Bathroom accessibility: Families with young children should note bathroom proximity when booking. "Dumpsters are a mile from your campsite," notes Neal C. about Winhall Brook, indicating services may be distant.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RVers should confirm cabin parking accommodations before arrival. At some locations, "we were still able to park and sleep in our van next to the lean to," explains Katy Z. about Gifford Woods.
Limited hookup options: Most cabin areas offer minimal or no hookups for additional RV camping. "Camped here Labor Day Weekend in our 40 ft 5th wheel. We had a pull thru site. Easy to drive into the campground and into the site," notes David about Caton Place Campground.
Waste disposal: RV waste disposal options vary by property. "They do have a dump station if you are in a RV," confirms Jan B., which can save trips to distant disposal facilities.
Winter access: Winter cabin rentals may have limited road maintenance, requiring 4WD vehicles. Overnight parking for larger RVs during winter months often requires special arrangements with property managers.
