Campers visiting Chester, Vermont will find several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius that operate primarily from May through mid-October. The region sits within the Connecticut River Valley at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,500 feet, creating varied camping environments from riverside sites to mountain settings. Temperatures typically range from 50-80°F during camping season with higher elevation campgrounds experiencing cooler nighttime temperatures.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Mount Ascutney State Park Campground offers multiple trail options with varying difficulties. "There is a sweet little nature loop in the campground with signs identifying different trees. There are also other trails that lead to the summit of Mt. Ascutney," notes one visitor who appreciated the educational aspects of the shorter trails.
Kayaking and canoeing: Pillsbury State Park Campground provides water access with boat rentals available. "Kayaking on May Pond and discovering little islands and coves was a highlight," shares a camper who enjoyed exploring the waterways. Some sites even offer direct water access as one reviewer mentions, "Our site was waterfront and shared a small beach/kayak launch with the neighboring site."
Swimming holes: Jamaica State Park Campground features natural swimming areas. "You can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools," explains a camper who enjoyed the refreshing water features. Another visitor adds, "The prime lean-to sites on the water are beautiful and spacious," highlighting the combination of quality accommodations and water access.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Jamaica State Park Campground receives high marks for its peaceful environment. "Small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world," writes one camper who appreciated disconnecting. The lack of cell service at many area campgrounds creates a more immersive outdoor experience.
Clean facilities: Tree Farm Campground in Springfield earns consistent praise for maintenance. "Everything was clean, staff was friendly and attentive. Bathrooms and showers were also kept nice and clean which is always a plus," reports a visitor. Another camper adds, "The campground is clean and quiet, with sites that are spacious and private."
Natural surroundings: Many campers appreciate the wooded settings typical of Vermont campgrounds. "The campground is very wooded (see warning below for large rigs), the roads in the campground are good shape with well packed gravel," notes a visitor at Dorset RV Park, highlighting both the aesthetic appeal and practical considerations of the forest setting.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds near Chester close by mid-October with varying opening dates. Kampfires in Dummerston operates "Apr 15 - Oct 15," making it one of the earliest opening options in the area. Other campgrounds like Tree Farm Campground run "May 10th to Oct 19th," providing slightly more autumn camping opportunities.
Wildlife encounters: Some campgrounds report wildlife sightings. "When I went to hook up the water, a pile of fresh bear scat was right there! They did say there was wildlife in the area!" reports a camper at Kampfires, suggesting visitors should practice proper food storage and waste disposal.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely by location and carrier. "Sites have cell service," notes a visitor at Pillsbury State Park, while another camper at Jamaica State Park mentions "no cell service" as a positive feature for disconnecting.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Mount Ascutney State Park Campground offers nature programs and identified trails. "Outside of the bathroom there was a little library book case with books for campers to borrow. Such a fun idea!" writes one camper who appreciated the family-friendly touch.
Playgrounds and activities: Jamaica State Park has recreational facilities for children. "For us, they also had a playground to play at, and a boat dock to kayak," mentions a family who visited with children. Another visitor confirms, "Fun playground and nature area for kids. Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls."
Safety considerations: Some natural features require supervision. "People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls," warns a visitor regarding Hamilton Falls near Jamaica State Park, highlighting the importance of water safety with children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Dorset RV Park has varied terrain across sites. "Our site was level but some definitely were not," reports an RV camper, suggesting calling ahead to request a level site for larger rigs. This detail is particularly important for larger motorhomes without hydraulic leveling systems.
Maneuverability considerations: Tree spacing affects RV access at some campgrounds. "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," cautions a camper at Dorset RV Park who observed others struggling with navigation.
Hookup variations: RV campgrounds near Chester offer different utility connections. "Sanitary dump stations are available at all the campgrounds mentioned, though not all sites feature sewer connections at the individual site," making it important to confirm specific hookup availability when booking.
