Dispersed camping options near West Chesterfield, New Hampshire remain limited due to land management regulations in the region. Most camping in this area requires staying at established campgrounds, with seasonal operations generally running from April through October. Water activities form a central part of the camping experience, with the Ashuelot River providing opportunities for tubing, kayaking, and fishing at several sites within a 30-minute drive of West Chesterfield.
What to do
Float the Ashuelot River: Campers at Ashuelot River Campground can enjoy water activities directly from their sites. "We took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit," notes one visitor who enjoyed drifting around the campground. The campground provides canoe and kayak rentals plus shuttle service for water adventures.
Hiking at Mt. Olga: Campers at Molly Stark State Park Campground can access a hiking trail directly from the campground. "You can continue on the hiking trail to a cute brewery/pizza place or even a distillery. If hiking is not for you it's a 3 minute car ride away," reports one camper. The trail to the Mt. Olga fire tower offers panoramic views of the Green Mountains and is only 1.7 miles round trip.
Hamilton Falls Trek: The trail network at Jamaica State Park Campground leads to impressive waterfalls. "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," explains a visitor. The falls require caution with children due to dangerous areas.
What campers like
Clean, updated facilities: Modern bathrooms consistently receive positive reviews from campers throughout the region. At Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres), campers appreciate the thoroughly maintained facilities. "The bathrooms are beautifully redone and clean. The laundry room is pretty good too," mentions a camper. Several campgrounds have recently invested in bathroom upgrades.
Extra amenities: Many private campgrounds offer recreational features beyond basic camping. One visitor to Brattleboro North KOA noted, "The pool was sparkling clean and the best part, not a bunch of screaming kids running around. There's a market next door with fresh fruit and veggies for sale." Ice cream stands, mini-golf, and game rooms add appeal for families staying multiple nights.
Access to small towns: The proximity to Brattleboro provides convenient access to supplies and dining. As one camper at Molly Stark State Park mentioned, "We enjoyed a fun day at Mount Snow which is close by with restaurants and things to do in that area, as well as the fun town of Brattleboro in the other direction which is always a great place to visit." Many campgrounds sit 5-10 minutes from small towns with grocery stores.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close by early November at the latest. Ashuelot River Campground operates from May 1 to October 31, while state parks like Fort Dummer State Park Campground have even shorter seasons from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend. One visitor noted, "Bathrooms and showers a short walk. Two different hiking trails are in the park with plenty a drive away."
Wildlife encounters: Animals including bears inhabit the forests surrounding camping areas. At Kampfires, one camper reported, "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!" Proper food storage remains essential at all campgrounds in the region.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds sit relatively close to major roads, creating background noise. At Fort Dummer State Park, a visitor observed, "Only downfall is since it's so close to the highway, you can hear traffic all night." Sites farther from roads generally provide a quieter experience.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature kid-friendly play areas. Jamaica State Park Campground includes "a playground to play at, and a boat dock to kayak. The bugs were not fun in the summer," according to a family who visited. Gilson Pond Area at Monadnock State Park also features "a very nice playground--new!" according to another visitor.
Swimming options: Pools provide refreshing alternatives to river swimming. One family visiting Hinsdale Campground At Thicket Hill Village commented, "Great swimming pool! Spent a week plus there and had no problems with the dirt bikes and loved the pool." Many campgrounds with pools require adult supervision for children under 12.
First-timer friendly: The campgrounds near West Chesterfield suit families new to camping. A visitor to Jamaica State Park shared, "Was such a great experience. Getting to spend time with the family and just relax and everyone was so nice and friendly." Campground offices typically stock basic forgotten items like propane and marshmallow roasting sticks.
Tips from RVers
Route planning: Access roads to some campgrounds have covered bridges with height and weight restrictions. One Ashuelot River Campground visitor advised, "Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low Clearance and low weight limits." Several campgrounds provide downloadable directions for RVs to avoid problematic routes.
Site selection: Most campgrounds offer a mix of open and wooded RV sites. At Ashuelot River Campground, a visitor explained, "We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was 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. They have sites located in fully open areas, as well as some that are partially wooded and have river access."
