Best Campgrounds near Chester, VT

The southern Vermont landscape surrounding Chester features a mix of state parks, private campgrounds, and forest service sites that accommodate various camping styles. Horseshoe Acres Campground, located directly in Chester, provides full hookup sites for RVs and tent camping areas from May through November. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access Tree Farm Campground in Springfield, which maintains well-kept grounds with both primitive and serviced sites. The Connecticut River valley to the east and Green Mountain National Forest to the west create natural boundaries that define the camping options in this region, with most facilities situated along river corridors or nestled in forested hillsides.

Most campgrounds in the Chester area operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with Columbus Day weekend marking the end of the camping season for many facilities. Vermont state parks typically do not offer electrical hookups, as noted by campers seeking more amenities. Cell service varies considerably throughout the region, with better coverage in valley areas and limited or no service in more remote mountain locations. According to one visitor at Mount Ascutney State Park, "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, this campground might not work out."

Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. Several state parks feature swimming areas, boat launches, and waterfront campsites that receive consistently positive reviews. The area's rivers and ponds support activities like kayaking, fishing, and swimming during summer months. Campground facilities generally include clean bathrooms and coin-operated showers, with many sites offering fire rings and picnic tables. Privacy between sites varies by location, with some campgrounds providing more spacious and secluded options than others. Fall foliage season brings increased visitation, particularly at higher elevation campgrounds like Coolidge State Park, where one camper noted, "This place gets my vote for best campground in Vermont, especially if you're lucky enough to get one of the few sites on the outside of A loop that has a lean-to with a view."

Best Camping Sites Near Chester, Vermont (177)

    1. Jamaica State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Jamaica, VT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 874-4600

    $20 - $42 / night

    "This tops our list for camping in Vermont. There is so much to do here, and yet the campground feels very private and quiet. There are 41 tent/RV sites to choose from and 18 lean-tos."

    "Great spot near the river with a flat trail and a waterfall near by."

    2. Caton Place Campground

    7 Reviews
    Chester, VT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 226-7767

    "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."

    3. Tree Farm Campground

    7 Reviews
    Springfield, VT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 885-2889

    $26 - $36 / night

    "While searching online we learned that Vermont state parks do not have hook ups. We are a family of five with a pop up pull behind and the Glamping lifestyle is a little bit easier on us these days ."

    "There are a few trails around the campground and it is close to Mt Ascutney which if you are feeling a bit lazy there is an auto rd that goes about 3/4 of the way up. 3 mi."

    4. Winhall Brook Camping Area - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    10 Reviews
    South Londonderry, VT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 824-4570

    $20 - $26 / night

    "The campground is located where Winhall River meets the West River."

    "There is a small group of camp sides with electricity and water but most sites have none. The bathrooms are clean. Where the two rivers intersect is a nice sport to put your feet in the water."

    5. Wilgus State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Ascutney, VT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 674-5422

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Wilgus State Park is the first Vermont state park to open each spring, well before Memorial Day each year."

    "This is a small park, but it's a good spot to stay to explore the area (nearby Mt. Ascutney State Park, Harpoon Brewery, the American Precision Museum, etc.)."

    6. Mount Ascutney State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    Ascutney, VT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 674-2060

    "The state park had everything we were looking for: close proximity to mountain bike trails, beautiful hiking trails, available leantos, and less than two hours from our home."

    "Vermont parks are just some the most lush you’ve ever seen."

    7. Horseshoe Acres Campground

    3 Reviews
    Weston, VT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 875-2960

    $37 - $57 / night

    8. Emerald Lake State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Danby, VT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 362-1655

    "Beautiful campground in south central Vermont.  On a lovely emerald green small lake with nice beach. Good for fishing and kayaking.  Well kept."

    "The camp sites are quite a bit of a walk up the hill from the lake where there is swimming, kayaking, paddle boating and picnicking."

    9. Greendale Campground

    5 Reviews
    Weston, VT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 747-6700

    "Greendale Campground is a small remote campground located along Greendale Brook in Weston, VT.

    There are 11 campsites available in a wooded setting."

    "We picked a nice site next to a babbling brook. While we only tent camped we plan to return with our new to us pop up this year. We only saw two cars during our entire stay."

    10. Crown Point Camping Area

    2 Reviews
    Ascutney, VT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 263-5555

    "This is a great campground set in a thick pine forest near a large pond. They have a lagoon for swimming and a children's playground. Hiking trails nearby. Canoes for rent."

    "They have scheduled events that occur including family and adult only fire truck rides around the campground."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 177 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Chester, VT

637 Reviews of 177 Chester Campgrounds



Guide to Chester

Camping near Chester, Vermont, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are great options to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are plenty of trails nearby. For instance, at Quechee State Park Campground, one visitor mentioned, "There’s a hiking trail beside of 37 and it’s steep going down and up but well worth it." This makes it a perfect spot for those who love to hike.
  • Swimming: Many campgrounds have swimming areas. A camper at Lake George Escape Campground noted, "The pool is NOT heated as they state all over their website," so be prepared for cooler water.
  • Fishing: The rivers and lakes around Chester are great for fishing. One reviewer at Camping On The Battenkill said, "There are several sites right on the river!" This is ideal for anglers looking to catch some fish.

What campers like

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate having room to spread out. A visitor at Woodford State Park Campground remarked, "Our site was good-sized and private." This is a common theme among campgrounds in the area.
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers are a big plus. One camper at Greenfield State Park Campground mentioned, "Showers were free and nice and clean." Cleanliness is a priority for many campgrounds near Chester.
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers rave about the helpful staff. A visitor at Moose Hillock Camping Resorts said, "The staff were friendly and helpful." This makes for a welcoming atmosphere.

What you should know

  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service. A camper at Monadnock State Park Campground noted, "No cell/data service... I wish this were clearer on their website." It’s a good idea to plan ahead.
  • No Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Jamaica State Park Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "Be prepared for no hook-ups but there is a dump station for self-contained toilets."
  • Bugs: Be ready for bugs, especially in warmer months. One camper at Monadnock State Park Campground humorously said, "The bugs… holy hell, the bugs." Bring bug spray to keep them at bay.

Tips for camping with families

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds. A reviewer at Jamaica State Park Campground said, "Great playground and fun playing in the river." This makes it easier to keep kids entertained.
  • Activities for Kids: Many campgrounds offer organized activities. One camper at Lake George RV Park mentioned, "The array of resort-level amenities are beautifully-maintained and clean." Check the schedule for family-friendly events.
  • Safety: Ensure kids can ride bikes safely. A visitor at Lake George Escape Campground noted, "I was a little nervous for the kids riding bikes because of all the traffic."

Tips from RVers

  • Big Rig Friendly: Many campgrounds cater to larger RVs. A camper at Moose Hillock Camping Resorts said, "For a private campground the sites are large and well spaced out."
  • Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with dump stations. A visitor at Woodford State Park Campground mentioned, "There is a dump station available." This is essential for RV travelers.
  • Road Noise: Be aware of potential road noise. A camper at Lake George RV Park noted, "Some road noise," so choose your site wisely if you prefer peace and quiet.

Camping around Chester, VT, has something for everyone, whether you're in a tent or an RV. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Chester, VT?

According to TheDyrt.com, Chester, VT offers a wide range of camping options, with 177 campgrounds and RV parks near Chester, VT and 20 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Chester, VT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chester, VT is Jamaica State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 21 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chester, VT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 20 free dispersed camping spots near Chester, VT.

What parks are near Chester, VT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Chester, VT that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.