Vermont offers multiple camping options near Cavendish, with most campgrounds open from May through mid-October. The region sits within the Green Mountain range at elevations between 700-1400 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night. Summer highs typically reach 75-85°F while nighttime temperatures can drop to 45-55°F even in July and August.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Jamaica State Park Campground provides access to Hamilton Falls, a significant natural attraction. "There is a plethora of things to do in the park itself and in the local community," notes Keith L. The trail follows the West River upstream with multiple swimming opportunities along the way.
Fishing in local ponds: The region offers ample fishing opportunities including Kent Pond near Gifford Woods State Park Campground. "The AT runs directly through this park," mentions Sarah K., who appreciates the trail access. Most ponds are stocked with trout and smallmouth bass.
Mountain biking trails: Mount Ascutney State Park maintains designated mountain biking trails accessible directly from the campground. "The mountain biking trails are awesome and the hiking is fantastic," reports Dana M. The park offers trails ranging from beginner to advanced levels with trail maps available at the ranger station.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer water access, with Jamaica State Park receiving particular praise. "You can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools," notes Jackie G. Local swimming holes provide a refreshing alternative to developed pools.
Private wooded sites: Tree Farm Campground gets high marks for site privacy and natural setting. "The campground is clean and quiet, with sites that are spacious and private," writes Lee A. Many sites include mature trees providing natural shade and separation.
Fall foliage views: The region transforms in autumn, typically peaking between late September and mid-October. "We were visiting mid-October, so the fall colors made the nature trail even more picturesque," notes Luis F. from Newfound RV Park. Fall weekends require reservations months in advance due to high demand.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. "No cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world," writes Brittany B. about Jamaica State Park Campground. Stronger signals are typically found at higher elevations and near larger towns.
Highway noise at some sites: Road noise affects certain campgrounds, particularly Mount Ascutney State Park Campground. "We were in site 27 and it was a beautiful site but the road noise from interstate 91 was extremely loud," reports Dana M. Research specific site locations before booking to minimize noise impact.
Seasonal facility limitations: Most campgrounds operate with reduced services early and late in the season. "Most parks close by mid-October before winter weather arrives," according to local guidelines. Water systems are typically shut down after the first frost, which can occur as early as late September.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "For us, they also had a playground to play at, and a boat dock to kayak," mentions Meike W. about Jamaica State Park. Sandy Beach Campground also receives praise for family amenities.
Educational opportunities: Gifford Woods State Park Campground provides nature programs throughout the summer. "It has multiple lean-to sites which are in wooded areas. Cool stone bathrooms and playing fields for kids," notes Sarah K. Park rangers often conduct weekend nature programs during peak season.
Family-friendly swimming: Sandy Beach Campground offers controlled swimming areas appropriate for children. "The sandy beach is nice but the swimming area is quite weedy," notes Tammy, indicating the maintained swimming zones that provide safer water entry points for families.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Some campgrounds require significant leveling for larger rigs. At Dorset RV Park, a camper noted: "Our site was level but some definitely were not." Carrying extra leveling blocks is recommended, particularly for sites along sloped terrain.
Navigation challenges: Tree placement can create difficulties for larger vehicles. At Dorset RV Park, one reviewer warned, "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." Many campgrounds have specific routes recommended for larger RVs.
Electric reliability: Most campgrounds with hookups provide stable 30-amp service, though not all offer 50-amp connections. "The hookups were all well-placed and we didn't have any issues with the electric," reports Nancy W. from Dorset RV Park, where full hookup sites with 50-amp service are available for larger motorhomes.
