Dispersed camping near Barnard, Vermont presents varied options amid the Green Mountain National Forest, where elevations range from 700 to 4,000 feet across the region. Most campgrounds remain open from mid-May through mid-October, with typical overnight low temperatures dropping into the 40s even during summer months. Water access varies significantly between campgrounds in this rural area of central Vermont.
What to do
Swimming at Lake Dunmore: Branbury State Park Campground provides lake access with a designated swimming area. "The day use section has a wonderful beach with a swimming area and boat launch. Large trees provide shade on a grassy lawn, and grills are available," notes a visitor to Branbury State Park Campground.
Waterfall hiking: Jamaica State Park Campground offers trails to nearby Hamilton Falls. "There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools. The area is beautiful and good food across the street!" shares a camper at Jamaica State Park Campground.
Trail exploration: Multiple hiking and biking routes connect to campgrounds throughout the region. "Great hiking or biking along the West River!" reports a camper who stayed at Jamaica State Park. Trails range from flat riverside paths to more challenging mountain routes with significant elevation changes.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Some campgrounds offer prime waterfront locations. "We managed to get a prime leanto site right on the river. We were only there for an overnight but we will be back," writes a visitor about Jamaica State Park Campground.
No cell service retreats: Some campers appreciate disconnecting from technology. "Find something that you dont like about this park... go ahead, ill wait. Small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world," explains a visitor to Jamaica State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. At Tree Farm Campground, campers note, "The campground is clean and quiet, with sites that are spacious and private. The wifi is pretty darn good. There's a cozy lounge room to hang out in with games, books, crayons, and puzzles."
What you should know
Seasonal timing: Most campgrounds in the region close by mid-October. "Fall camping requires advance planning as many parks close after Columbus Day weekend," with Jamaica State Park specifically noting their season runs "May 12 to Columbus Day weekend."
Bear awareness: Wildlife precautions are necessary at some campgrounds. "Just make sure you put your food and trash away- there are black bears in the area!" warns a visitor to Branbury State Park Campground.
Site selection matters: Layout and terrain vary widely between and within campgrounds. At Dorset RV Park, a camper advises, "Larger rigs might want to avoid loop 6-14, especially for sites 8-12. Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. At Branbury State Park Campground, one visitor mentions, "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground."
Educational opportunities: Some parks provide nature programming for kids. "The nature center with all kinds of information and activities" at Branbury State Park helps families learn about local ecosystems.
Farm animals: At Dorset RV Park, families can enjoy "rabbits and chickens for the kids to enjoy. Spotless grounds and helpful staff," according to one reviewer. This unique feature provides entertainment for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the region require leveling equipment. At Dorset RV Park, one RVer notes, "Our site was level but some definitely were not. The hookups were all well-placed and we didn't have any issues with the electric and the wifi at our site worked well."
Cable TV service: Some campgrounds provide television connections for RVers. At Newfound RV Park, campers appreciate the full hookup sites, with one noting it was "a great place to explore Newfound lake from, as well as the Mill Fudge Factory. Our site was full hookup and a pull through site."
Late-season considerations: RV camping near Barnard, Vermont in fall requires preparation. "For quick provisions there is a gas station/country store just up the road. They have a decent selection of groceries, a deli counter, and a few quick-serve items," reports a visitor to Newfound RV Park who stayed during October.
