The Brownsville area sits at the gateway to Vermont's Green Mountains between 750-950 feet in elevation with gentle rolling terrain that creates ideal camping conditions. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from mid-May through mid-October, with peak foliage occurring in early October. While glamping options near Brownsville offer luxury accommodations, the area also provides more traditional camping experiences with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Gifford Woods State Park Campground features multiple hiking options including access to the Appalachian Trail that runs directly through the park. "We especially loved the trail around the lake - quiet with good swimming all around. The vista trail has an awesome view of the lake from across the road, and the meadow trail leads to an old cemetery, which is kind of fun to explore," notes a visitor to Emerald Lake State Park Campground.
Water activities: The Sugar River at Crow's Nest Campground offers fishing and tubing opportunities. "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 a visitor to Ashuelot River Campground.
Family recreation: Beyond the traditional outdoor activities, some campgrounds provide structured entertainment. "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 a camper from Quechee State Park Campground.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campsites in the Brownsville region offer good separation between camping spots. "Large, clean sites. Bathrooms are clean. Hosts sponsor activities that are fun for all, like a balloon launch, cook outs, etc.," notes a visitor to Quechee State Park Campground.
Accessible nature viewing: The natural surroundings provide opportunities for wildlife spotting. "Awesome campground with two of the greatest host/owners Chuck and Laura. We have been coming here for years and always enjoy the time spent here. Beautiful river to float down or paddle up. Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground," shares a visitor to Ashuelot River Campground.
Proximity to attractions: The central location makes exploration convenient. "It's very close to Quechee village and Woodstock so there are plenty of other activities, shopping, and dining options near by," reports a camper from Quechee State Park Campground, highlighting the regional access to local towns and attractions from most campgrounds in the area.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: The topography of some campgrounds presents challenges. "The campground is on a hill so it can be difficult especially for little legs going up and down. The bathrooms are up the hill," warns a visitor to Moose Hillock Camping Resort. Similar elevation issues affect other campgrounds in the region.
Seasonal weather preparation: Late spring and early fall camping requires extra layers. "We camped here with our dog on a tent site in camping area B. The site was large and clean, and relatively quiet even though it was a holiday weekend. Hiking trails are steep, so prepare for a good workout," advises a camper from Emerald Lake State Park Campground.
Road noise factors: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "The park is in a good location; it is right next to the road. The issue I had was the camp next to ours had the generator on all night long and I had a hard time getting back to sleep after going to the bathroom," reports a visitor to Quechee State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly activities: Many campgrounds include no-cost options for children. "My family and I have stayed at a KOA in Mystic, CT multiple times as a last resort. The service was terrible, grounds were terrible, and the amount of noise day and night were brutal. From the second we pulled into this campground we were greeted with 5 star service and friendly staff," shares a visitor to Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.
Water features for kids: Swimming options vary by location. "The kids love the ship wreck pool! A bit tough on the noise rules. No internet connectivity!!" mentions a camper at Moose Hillock Camping Resort, highlighting that many children enjoy the water features at regional campgrounds.
Multi-generational options: Luxury camping near Brownsville provides alternatives for family members who prefer more comfort. "We camped in a cabin with our pup. This place was very clean and loaded with amenities: pool, dog park, events, open fields, deer, store, etc. This was glamping with a fire pit," notes a visitor to Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV services vary across campgrounds. "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," reports an RVer at Quechee State Park Campground.
Site leveling challenges: The terrain affects parking and setup. "Sites are ok - nothing that I would say was amazing. All are spacious and generally shaded and flat. You can see all your neighbors but noise level wasn't terrible," notes a visitor to Moose Hillock Camping Resort.
Seasonal RV services: Dump stations and water access can be limited during shoulder seasons. "They have a dump station if you are in an RV. They also have several lean-tos that you can rent. The staff and volunteers are very helpful," shares an RVer staying at Caton Place Campground, where luxury glamping in Brownsville, Vermont coexists with traditional RV camping.
