Camping options near Cavendish, Vermont range from primitive forest sites to full-service campgrounds with water views. The region sits within the southern Green Mountains at elevations between 700-1,400 feet, creating distinct camping microclimates. Summer nights often drop into the 50s even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
What to do
Hike Mount Ascutney: The 3,200+ foot mountain offers multiple trail options of varying difficulties. "There are four different trails up the mountain of varying levels of difficulty. You can also drive right to the top and hike around on the summit trails, which are really pretty and pop out onto ledges with gorgeous vistas," notes a visitor to Mount Ascutney State Park Campground.
Paddle the Connecticut River: The slow-moving river provides excellent kayaking and canoeing opportunities. "Wilgus State Park is the first Vermont state park to open each spring, well before Memorial Day each year... The best part about camping here is getting out on the water. You can rent kayaks and canoes, and the river moves slowly enough to paddle up stream," reports a camper at Wilgus State Park Campground.
Mountain biking: Several areas offer trail networks for various skill levels. "The state park maintains its own mountain biking trail loop, which accessible directly from the campground. It is a 3 mile beginner friendly loop, with some nice rollers and moderate terrain. Down the road about 10 minutes at the Mt. Ascutney Outdoor Center, there is a whole network of mountain biking trails that range from novice to expert."
What campers like
Secluded lean-to sites: Many campgrounds offer these rustic shelter options. "I loved this campground especially my site! I stayed at the Basswood lean to site. Private and well kept sites, clean bathrooms, friendly service, gorgeous Mountain View, gave me the real feel of camping outdoors," writes a visitor to Coolidge State Park Campground.
Swimming spots: Natural water features provide relief on hot summer days. "We loved walking the trail behind the campsites along the river to the beautiful vista views with a group with young kids, rented kayaks and fished from the boat launch. There is a great local pond for swimming that had dive docks, diving boards and lifeguards on duty that was less than 10 minutes away," notes a camper at Wilgus State Park Campground.
Forest campsites: Wooded settings create privacy between sites. "Nice place to get away from it all. Very wooded and private sites. Many have lean-tos and brick ovens," reports a camper about Coolidge State Park. Another notes, "Tree Farm Campground is my new favorite. The campground is clean and quiet, with sites that are spacious and private."
What you should know
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes quickly. "We hit this campground for one over night as we past through. Good spot with easy access to the Gorge. Bathroom were clean and the grounds were quite at night," explains a visitor to Quechee State Park Campground.
Reservation timing: Popular sites book far in advance. "We decided to check out Coolidge State Park after reading the reviews on their website. They have some of the most amazing views right from your campsite. We were not lucky enough to get one because you have to book far in advance to get those campsites."
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience highway sounds. "The road nearby is noisy. Because of its location, you can hear both the local highway and I91. If being in the quiet wilderness is important to you, than this campground might not work out."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming lagoons: Purpose-built swimming areas cater to children. "They have a lagoon for kids, with built in water rafts in the middle for kids to jump in. They have scheduled events that occur including family and adult only fire truck rides around the campground," explains a visitor to Crown Point Camping Area.
Educational programs: Rangers often offer organized activities. "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)," notes a camper at Quechee State Park.
Multi-generation sites: Some campgrounds specifically accommodate family groups. "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. My wife really enjoyed it and had a lot of fun."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "The pull through site is not level and is barely long enough to fit my 43' rig (with my motorcycle lift). Driving out of the site was just as bad. You have to go down a small hill and bottom out the front and then drag the backend out of the dirt," warns a camper about Caton Place Campground.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by campground. "We needed some serious forest bathing and spontaneously decided to head to the green mountains. We were looking for a basic camp ground that would have hook ups. While searching online we learned that Vermont state parks do not have hook ups."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts RV access at many sites. "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."
