Cabin camping near Chester, Vermont offers accommodations within Vermont's mountainous terrain, where elevations range from 1,000-2,000 feet in this region. Winter temperatures can drop below zero, making three-season cabins the norm with most closing by mid-October. Proximity to the Green Mountain National Forest provides access to both developed and primitive cabin options within a 30-minute drive.
What to do
Swimming at natural spots: Winhall Brook Camping Area features a natural swimming area at the intersection of two rivers. A visitor noted, "We spent the week in the river exploring and relaxing. They had just had a series of rainstorms before we arrived so the river was able to be tubed down for a couple days."
Hiking on Appalachian Trail: Gifford Woods State Park Campground provides direct access to the Appalachian Trail. According to a review, "The Appalachian Trail runs right through the park and you can hike up to Deer Leep, around Kent Pond, or to Thundering Falls right from the campground."
Local attractions: Visit nearby Vermont Country Store from Woodford State Park Campground. A camper reported, "There is a small reservoir with a little beach that you can swim or kayak/canoe in. There's a bunch of fish and other little creatures so it's fun to explore."
Winter activities: Many cabin options near Killington offer extended seasons. A reviewer at Gifford Woods mentioned, "Very centrally located and takes no time at all to get to Killington and Rutland," allowing access to winter sports from some year-round cabin facilities.
What campers like
Quality of facilities: Ashuelot River Campground maintains clean, well-kept cabins. One camper noted, "The sites were level and easy to get into and park. We were in a fully wooded area on the left side of the campground, which we prefer."
Natural setting: Campers appreciate the riverside location at many cabin sites. A review stated, "Beautiful riverfront location. Huge sites and a very helpful owner. What more could you want?"
Kid-friendly amenities: Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres) offers numerous family activities. A reviewer mentioned, "This place is pretty awesome. They have an ice cream shop attached to their office/store, mini golf just outside of it too. There is an amphitheater for concerts and shows throughout the summer."
Seasonal events: Many campgrounds host special gatherings. One camper at Kampfires noted, "We were here when they had a food festival with live music... it was fun. They also have the cleanest and nicest shower you will find in a campground."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most state park cabins close by mid-October. At Quechee State Park Campground, a visitor pointed out, "Price has gone up to $38 a night. Got there close to the time the rangers left for the night, Nick was really kind to make sure I got situated before he left."
Road noise: Some cabins experience traffic sounds. A Quechee camper noted, "Big, flat, beautiful sites. Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant. Might be the nicest bathrooms I've seen in decades of camping."
Limited privacy: Many cabin sites offer limited seclusion. A review mentioned, "The campground is small which is really great. It's just a short hike back to the pond, which is very pretty and is along the Appalachian Trail."
Fire restrictions: All cabins require purchase of local firewood to prevent spread of invasive insects. A camper at Gifford Woods noted, "Seasoned firewood available for purchase ($6 a stack)."
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: Many cabins lack electricity. A Woodford camper advised, "If you're looking for a quiet spot maybe don't look here. If you have kids and don't mind them making friends and roaming the campground then this is great! Boat rentals!"
Plan for weather changes: Mountain weather fluctuates rapidly, even in summer. A camper at Camp Plymouth State Park Campground shared, "Camp Plymouth has cabins to rent and there is space for group camping. The campground also has buildings to rent for large gatherings."
Look for ranger programs: State parks often offer kid-friendly activities. One parent mentioned, "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)."
Check shower facilities: Coin-operated showers are standard. A visitor noted, "Long waits in the morning- two shower stalls and lots of teenagers. The park has a nice grassy area on the water that's dog-friendly."
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Dorset RV Park has some tight turns. A visitor reported, "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."
Site selection: When booking cabin or RV sites, specify size requirements. A camper noted, "Initially offered site 1 but wanted to be out of the way. After being on site, my 35' rig wouldn't have fit at all, may have been without site and likely w/o refund."
Leveling issues: Bring leveling blocks for cabin sites. One RVer commented, "The site was level but some definitely were not. We got twenty or so television channels with the cable hookup."
Electrical needs: Most cabins offer minimal electrical service. A reviewer mentioned, "There are a few sites with hookups but since we like to be near the river, we opted for other areas."
