Camping areas near Brattleboro sit within Vermont's southeastern corner where the Connecticut River forms the border with New Hampshire. Elevation ranges from 200-300 feet along the river valleys to over 1,800 feet in surrounding hills. Most campgrounds remain open from mid-May through mid-October, with July and August experiencing average daytime temperatures of 75-85°F and overnight lows of 55-65°F.
What to do
Hike to views and waterfalls: At Molly Stark State Park Campground, a 1.7-mile trail leads to the Mt. Olga fire tower. "The hiking trail to the top of the Mt. Olga firetower provides awesome views of the Green Mountains. It's also fun to explore the relics of the old Hogback Ski Resort," notes reviewer Tara S.
Kayak or canoe on calm waters: Woodford State Park Campground offers paddling on a scenic reservoir. "The reservoir is beautiful- plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming. We drove down to the second loop and parked on the side of the campground road and carried our kayaks down to the camper's beach," says Melissa S.
Float down the river: Ashuelot River provides tubing and kayaking opportunities. "Awesome campground with beautiful river to float down or paddle up. Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground," shares Michael M.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Jamaica State Park keeps high standards. "Bathrooms and showers were also kept nice and clean which is always a plus. Our tent site was very spacious, you could of easily accommodated a family of four with a large tent," reports Chris D.
Privacy between sites: Fort Dummer State Park Campground offers well-spaced sites. "Sites are large and well maintained. Plenty of space between sites. It is a state park so there are not many services, but there is a great hike to a swimming hole and it is very close to Brattleboro," says Jessica S.
Off-season camping options: While most campgrounds close after Columbus Day weekend, some stay open later. "Conviently located off 91, this accessible campground is a nice place. Sites and lean-to's are well maintained and facilitates are clean," notes Jaime R. about Fort Dummer.
What you should know
Highway noise at some locations: Traffic can be heard at certain campgrounds. "The campground is near the highway. In this area you can't hear the traffic," mentions Tim K. about Fort Dummer sites set back from the road.
Limited shower facilities: Most campgrounds have basic amenities. "Bathrooms are a tad small and one shower per gendered room. Shower takes coins. Not free," points out Danielle G.
Seasonal considerations: Ashuelot River Campground operates from May 1 to October 31. "When the weather is warmer, the river is wide and looks great for floating. We didn't catch any fish but there's always next time," shares Evey M.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options for kids: Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres) offers numerous activities. "They have an ice cream shop attached to their office/store, mini golf just outside of it too. There is an amphitheater for concerts and shows throughout the summer. RV Spots, tent camping spots, a dog park, badminton, basketball, horseshoe, shuffleboard, the works," explains Sammii D.
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Woodford State Park has designated swimming zones. "The park has a nice grassy area on the water that's dog-friendly, and a separate little no-dog swimming and paddle boat area," notes reviewer B.
First-time camper considerations: Family-friendly atmosphere makes camping approachable. "Was such a great experience. Getting to spend time with the family and just relax and everyone was so nice and friendly," shares a first-time camper at Fort Dummer.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Brattleboro North KOA accommodates bigger RVs. "Small and quiet. The store is large and well stocked. Simply perfect," notes Rebecca S.
Hookup availability: Ashuelot River Campground offers various options. "Sites in the woods have water and 50 amp service, no sewer. Most of the open sites have 30/50 amp service with full hook-ups. River view sites available," explains John C.
Access considerations: Be aware of route limitations when towing. "Don't come in off of rt 10, there's a low covered, one lane bridge that you can't tow thru. Some of the turns aren't so friendly either," warns Camie S. about approaching Ashuelot River Campground.
