Campsites near Chester, Vermont generally operate seasonally from May through October, with average summer temperatures ranging between 65-80°F. The Williams River flows through Chester, creating multiple water-based recreation options beyond the more publicized Connecticut River. Most campgrounds in the region sit at elevations between 800-1,500 feet, with some hiking destinations reaching over 3,000 feet at nearby peaks.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: At Jamaica State Park Campground, trails lead to Hamilton Falls. "We hiked the west river trail (which leads right out of the campground) to Hamilton falls which is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail which then leads up hill for another mile to the falls. People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls," advises Chris D.
Rent kayaks on the river: Wilgus State Park Campground offers rentals for paddling the Connecticut River. "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," shares one camper. "If you choose this option, be sure to stop at Artisan Park, right on the river and have lunch at Harpoon Brewery."
Mountain biking trails: Dedicated trails for cyclists exist at many area campgrounds. "The state park maintains its own mountain biking trail loop, which is accessible directly from the campground. It is a 3 mile beginner friendly loop, with some nice rollers and moderate terrain," notes a rider at Mount Ascutney State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Riverside camping is highly rated in the region. "Most sites have a great view of the river, but I won't go so far as to call them waterfront as there is a bank covered with lush foliage between the sites and the water," reports a camper at Wilgus State Park.
Site privacy and landscape: Tree Farm Campground receives consistent praise for site spacing. "The campground is clean and quiet, with sites that are spacious and private. There's a cozy lounge room to hang out in with games, books, crayons, and puzzles; a dog park with toys included; and fabulous hiking trails," writes Lee A.
Swimming options: Natural water features enhance many campsites near Chester. A visitor to Winhall Brook Camping Area reports, "Where the two rivers intersect is a nice spot to put your feet in the water. Kids enjoy tubing the small rapids." Another camper notes, "Beautiful campground. Lush grass meadows. 2 rivers intersect in the campground. Most sites are on or just off the river."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds report spotty coverage. "No service or wifi," notes a visitor to Winhall Brook. Another camper adds that in some locations you'll find "bad phone signal and everything seemed far away, like Walmart was an hour away!"
Bathroom facilities vary: Most state parks offer basic facilities. At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, "You need quarters for showers. Restrooms are about average for state parks. They were definitely cleaned daily," reports Cynthia K.
Terrain challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads or steep sites. At Horseshoe Acres Campground, a reviewer warns, "We knew the moment we started going up the hill we wouldn't be getting down unscathed. Our 42 foot fifth wheel hit the road going up it, then severely drugged down the hill going down it extremely slowly."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Horseshoe Acres Campground provides dedicated recreation areas. One visitor notes: "Mini golf, playground and swimming pool for the kids. Three large field areas with lots of families and plenty of space for kids to meet others and ride bikes."
Safe swimming areas: Choose locations with designated swim spots. "Nice little weekend getaway. Clean bathrooms, roomy tent sites, nice staff. Fun playground and nature area for kids. Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls," reports Fransheska A. about Jamaica State Park.
Group-friendly sites: Some campgrounds accommodate larger family gatherings. At Crown Point Camping Area, a visitor highlights its family orientation: "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."
Tips from RVers
Water and electric hookups: Only a few campgrounds offer full connections. Tree Farm Campground provides full hookups but one camper notes, "Safari field isn't nice, they crowd you in."
Seasonal sites: Many campgrounds dedicate prime spots to seasonal campers. "The campground is more for seasonal campers," notes a visitor to Caton Place Campground. This means weekend or short-term visitors may find limited availability for premium sites.
Site leveling and access: Pay attention to site descriptions for larger rigs. "We had a pull thru site. Easy to drive into the campground and into the site. We had no issues at all," reports a 40-foot fifth-wheel owner at Caton Place Campground. However, another camper at the same location had a different experience: "The roads aren't wide enough to take a motorhome into. The pull through site is not level and is barely long enough to fit my 43' rig."
