Cabin accommodations near Dorset, Vermont range from primitive shelters to deluxe units with varying amenities based on location. Situated in the Taconic Mountains region at elevations between 700-1,500 feet, the area experiences seasonal temperature variations with summer highs typically in the 70s-80s°F. Most cabin facilities operate from late May through mid-October with increased rates during fall foliage season.
What to do
Water activities at Adams Reservoir: Located within Woodford State Park Campground, the reservoir provides swimming and paddling opportunities. A camper noted, "The reservoir is beautiful- plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming. We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning."
River exploration: Winhall Brook Camping Area offers unique water access where two rivers meet. "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," reports one visitor.
Hiking trails: Stratton Pond Shelter provides rustic cabin-style accommodations along key trail systems. According to one hiker, "The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter. There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter. The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail."
What campers like
Secluded, private sites: Woodford State Park Campground offers cabin accommodations in quieter settings. A visitor commented, "We love the VT state parks and try to camp there 3-4 times a summer. Great campground with many hiking trails and a peaceful pond with fishing across the street."
Well-maintained facilities: Cabin renters at Gifford Woods State Park Campground appreciate the upkeep. One camper shared, "The facilities are great for a state park and the sites are large. It's a smaller campground which is really great. It's just a short hike back to the pond, which is very pretty and is along the Appalachian Trail."
Family-friendly environments: Dorset RV Park provides cabin options in a family setting. "Great location near a fantastic quarry, country store, and Manchester shopping. The camp grounds were family friendly and quiet. They even had rabbits and chickens for the kids to enjoy," noted one visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. For Caton Place Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Camped here Labor Day Weekend in our 40 ft 5th wheel. We had a pull thru site. Easy to drive into the campground and into the site. We had no issues at all."
Bathroom facilities vary: Caton Place Campground has cabin options with different bathroom access. One camper noted, "Bath House is currently being updated. It is very clean," while another reported, "Bathroom is outdated. Only one shower towards the end of the bathroom."
Weather preparedness: Vermont cabin camping requires planning for temperature changes. Bring appropriate bedding as most cabins provide beds but not linens. At Gifford Woods, a camper reported, "Cleanest, friendliest VT state park! It has multiple lean-to sites which are in wooded areas."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational options for children: Select cabins near play areas. "Perfect for families! There are tons of different types of campsites with either tent spots, lean-tos, and a few (hard to get) cabins," reported a visitor at Woodford State Park.
Noise considerations: Gifford Woods State Park Campground offers variable sound environments. A camper warned, "It is wedged between two major highways. Initially we pulled up to the site 'Poplar' after driving 4+ hours and I could have cried, this site faces a large DOT/Parks Dept. parking lot."
Swimming locations: Many families appreciate cabin proximity to swimming spots. For Winhall Brook, a visitor shared, "Nice rocky beachesque swimming area on the river on the grounds. Bathrooms ok, 2 bathrooms with one shower each."
Tips from RVers
Site access: Some cabin areas can accommodate RVs alongside cabins. At Moose Hillock Camping Resorts, a camper noted, "Sites are huge. Plenty of room for our RV, and small tent. Private. Can't say enough about the pool."
Utility hookups: For those combining RV and cabin camping, note the hookup availability. At Lake George RV Park, a visitor highlighted, "Every site had full hookups. Nice for not having to empty grey tanks into wagon!"
Seasonal planning: Timing affects cabin and RV availability. At Dorset RV Park, a visitor reported, "We travelled as a group with family (4 sites). When we booked all our sites were right next to each other. When we arrived not a single one of us were even on the same road."
