Camping near Ascutney, Vermont typically experiences seasonal temperature variations with summer highs reaching 78-82°F and winter lows often below freezing. Located in Windsor County with an elevation of 3,144 feet at the summit, Ascutney provides access to both Green Mountain terrain and Connecticut River valley camping options. The region's state parks accommodate tent camping, RVs, and upscale glamping experiences with varying seasonal availability from May through October.
What to do
Hiking to overlooks: Gifford Woods State Park offers direct access to the Appalachian Trail with routes to spectacular viewpoints. "Aside from the campground and the trail to the gorge, there's a nice field for kids to play in, and clean washrooms. The campsites are all wooded. Some are private, while others are a little crowded together," notes Tara S. who camped at Gifford Woods.
Paddling and fishing: The water bodies near Ascutney provide calm paddling experiences across multiple skill levels. "The reservoir is beautiful- plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming. We had no issues with noise from other campers... We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning," reports Melissa S. about her experience at Woodford State Park.
River tubing and swimming: Local rivers offer relaxing float trips during warmer months. "Great place to camp on the ashuelot river. Make sure to bring tubes for relaxing on the river. We brought our kayaks and had no problem kayaking on the flat surface river," advises Karen O. who visited Ashuelot River Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Quechee State Park maintains high cleanliness standards across its camping areas. "The sites are large. If you stay in the back it's quieter. The bathroom is very clean. They offer showers that cost you a few quarters. There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in an RV," shares Jan B..
Family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds organize structured activities for children. "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)," mentions Jen B. about her stay at Quechee State Park.
Waterfront access: Emerald Lake State Park provides swimming and boating opportunities on its namesake lake. "Beautiful campground in south central Vermont. On a lovely emerald green small lake with nice beach. Good for fishing and kayaking. Well kept. Was very quiet when we visited though I suspect it's much busier in mid summer," observes Christina S. in her review.
What you should know
Seasonal constraints: Most glamping near Ascutney, Vermont operates within specific timeframes. "Just finishing up a week in Quechee State Park campground and have to say the place is really really nice... Biggest Pro- Everyone respects the quietness. Biggest Con- It looks like the state has spread out RCA on the sites, which probably could have been spread out better and made more level," notes Chris A..
Pay showers: Many state parks require quarters for shower facilities. "Nice sites, clean bathrooms. Hosts sponsor activities that are fun for all, like a balloon launch, cook outs, etc. Love it there," mentions Melissa R. about her experience.
Site privacy varies: Campsite layouts differ significantly even within the same campground. "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. We had no issues at all. Hosts were very friendly and helpful. Campground was very clean and well manicured," shares David from Caton Place Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water areas: Look for campgrounds with shallow swimming areas. "If you're looking for a quiet spot maybe don't look here. If you have kids and don't mind them making friends and roaming the campground then this is great! Boat rentals!" advises J L. about Woodford State Park.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground facilities. "Between the beach, the mini golf, playground, and an entire shed of recreation items available to use this place is amazing! Activities are scheduled throughout the season," shares J L. about Loon Lake Campground.
Plan for road noise: Some campgrounds are situated near highways. "The park is in a good location; it is right next to the road. We were at sight #3. We were able to walk to the gorge as well as to the Antique mall. The staff was very friendly and accommodating with us," notes William P.
Tips from RVers
Dumping stations: Not all sites offer full hookups. "Clean and quiet, good for kids and pets are welcome. There are 2 bathrooms with coin operated showers. There are sites for campers, tents, and a handful of lean tos," reports Jen B.
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "The sites are nicely spaced and seem to accommodate big rigs rather well. We have seen all shapes and sizes come and go, as well as tent campers, and they offer lean to's as well," notes Chris A.
Access considerations: Some areas have restrictions for larger vehicles. "This campground is more for seasonal campers. Bathroom is outdated. Only one shower towards the end of the bathroom, a bit dark and dirty," warns Anqi Z. about their experience.
