Camping in Chester, Vermont centers on the Green Mountains region where elevations range from 900 to 2,800 feet, creating diverse terrain for campers. The area experiences cool summer nights with temperatures typically dropping into the 50s even during July and August. Many campgrounds operate seasonally from late May through mid-October due to Vermont's northern climate conditions.
What to do
Hiking from campsite to vista points: Gifford Woods State Park Campground offers direct access to multiple trails including the Appalachian Trail that runs through the park. "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," notes a camper who appreciated the trailhead access.
Rail trail biking: The Ashuelot Rail Trail connects directly to Ashuelot River Campground, providing a flat, family-friendly cycling route. "You can pick up the Ashuelot Rail Trail at the campground. They have canoes and kayaks on site, plus a shuttle service for water sports or biking," explains one visitor who took advantage of the transportation support.
Gorge exploration: The deepest gorge in Vermont can be accessed through a special trail. "The Quechee Gorge, best accessed from the back of the lawn behind the bathhouse, is the deepest in Vermont," reports a camper describing the moderately challenging 30-minute hike to reach the semi-rapids at the bottom.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Molly Stark State Park Campground features sites with good tree cover and separation. "I got site #5, it was very private & quiet. The bathrooms were very clean," shares a mid-week visitor who appreciated the solitude during their stay.
Kayaking opportunities: Crow's Nest Campground provides direct river access with specific sites for water enthusiasts. "There are nice spots by the river. There's a nice little swimming area on the river for kids. Close to the Sugar River Rail trail for biking," reports a visitor who found the riverside location convenient despite noting most campers use RVs.
Clean facilities: State parks in the region maintain bathroom facilities at high standards. "Bathroom is in the first loop is fine (cold water sinks, hand soap, paper towels). Token operated showers that we didn't use this time. We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning," writes a camper describing the amenities and natural sounds.
What you should know
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit close to main roads, affecting the tranquility. "The campground is not far off route 4 and you may hear cars/trucks," warns a reviewer who still rated their experience highly but recommended specific sites like "site 11 or the BIRCH lean to as the 2 most spacious and/or secluded sites."
Reservation timing: Popular yurt camping near Chester, Vermont typically requires planning ahead. For places like Woodford State Park Campground, one visitor advises, "We unexpectedly had a free Saturday afternoon and night and 2 borrowed kayaks. Site 13 was the only one available." This suggests booking well in advance for prime spots.
Wildlife awareness: Campgrounds in the region host active wildlife. "We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning," mentions a camper, indicating the natural sounds you might experience during overnight stays in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Weekend programs often cater specifically to younger campers. "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)," shares a parent impressed by the free organized activities.
Site selection for yurts: When booking yurt camping in Chester, Vermont area with children, consider layout and proximity. "If you have little ones, check out the map before you reserve a site and find one on the opposite side of the ledge," advises a regular visitor to Emerald Lake State Park Campground, noting that some sites sit on steep terrain unsuitable for families.
Social considerations: Some campgrounds have more kids than others. "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!" writes a parent about one of the more family-oriented properties.
Tips from RVers
Access route planning: Several campgrounds have covered bridges nearby with weight and height restrictions. "Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low Clearance and low weight limits," cautions an RVer who needed to plan their approach carefully.
Pull-through availability: Quechee-Pine Valley KOA accommodates larger rigs with specific site types. "There is the range of sites from pull-thrus, pull-ins and back-in sites and can accommodate RVs of any size. Some sites are full hookup while others are not and that is reflected in the cost," explains a visitor who brought a 45-foot RV and found navigation manageable despite the hilly, wooded terrain.
Site leveling challenges: Ground conditions affect setup ease. "RCA on the sites, which probably could have spread out better and made more level. Also tough to drive a stake into," notes a camper describing the surface material at one property, suggesting bringing leveling blocks.
