Near Grafton, Vermont, most campgrounds operate at elevations between 900-1,500 feet above sea level in the southern Green Mountains. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms between June and August. Camping options vary from state parks with basic amenities to private RV parks offering full hookups, with most sites requiring advance reservations during peak foliage season from late September to mid-October.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Jamaica State Park Campground offers access to Hamilton Falls via a 3-mile round trip hike from the campground. "There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools. The area is beautiful and good food across the street!" notes Jackie G.
Mountain biking: The West River Trail runs directly from Jamaica State Park Campground along an old railroad bed, providing a flat, family-friendly route. "Great hiking or biking along the West River!" shares Chris S., who visited the park in May.
Blueberry picking: Tree Farm Campground in Springfield offers on-site blueberry picking during summer months. As Emily H. describes, "This was a very simple basic campground but the best part was that it was very quiet and cool despite the highest temps VT had seen in a long time. It had well-maintained grounds and some cute activities for the younger kids. Even blueberry picking on site."
Explore nearby ski areas: Campgrounds provide good summer access to winter ski areas with warm-weather activities. "A few miles from there was the ski resort, Bromli Mnt. With fun activities to do in the summer or winter!" shares Meike W. about staying at Jamaica State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate sites with natural screening at Molly Stark State Park Campground. "I got site #5, it was very private & quiet," reports Alyssa F., who stayed midweek. Franklin R. adds, "it is even nicer if you are able to get a site on the outer ring with a little bit more privacy!"
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high in importance. At Molly Stark State Park, Beck P. was impressed: "THE BATHROOM was the best I've seen camping very clean and updated and honestly gorgeous."
Natural swimming spots: Many campers enjoy cooling off at local swimming holes during summer. "We knew the moment we started going up the hill we wouldn't be getting down unscathed. Our 42 foot fifth wheel hit the road going up it, then severely drugged down the hill." One camper described wading at Crow's Nest Campground: "There's a nice little swimming area on the river for kids."
Wildlife viewing: At Kenolie Village Campground in Newfane, the tent sites are tucked away in wooded settings. Lucas L. reports: "Huge campground for RVING but I only tent and this is a great spot for it! Only about ten tenting sites here where the ground is nice thick grass to tent on and blocked off by all trees leaving you in your own area of the woods! Heard many awesome noises from lots of wildlife!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have spotty or non-existent cell coverage. At Jamaica State Park, Brittany B. notes: "small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through mid-October. Tree Farm Campground runs from "May 10th to Oct 19th," while Dorset RV Park operates "May 1 - Oct 31."
Limited hookup options at state parks: Vermont state parks typically don't offer electric or water hookups. Michele S. observed at Crow's Nest Campground: "Mostly seasonals and RVs but there are some nice spots by the river. Most sites do not have much privacy, but the campground itself is very quiet and clean."
Reservation timing: For premium sites, especially during fall foliage season, advance planning is essential. At Jamaica State Park, Jaime R. advises: "Book your site early to get a lean-to or a site near the river...it's stunning in the morning with the mountain mist rolling through!!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres) in Dummerston, Sammii D. found plenty of activities: "They have an ice cream shop attached to their office/store, mini golf just outside of it too. RV Spots, tent camping spots, a dog park, badminton, basketball, horseshoe, shuffleboard, the works."
Kid-friendly trails: Look for campgrounds with easy hiking options. Fransheska A. recommends Jamaica State Park: "Nice little weekend getaway. Clean bathrooms, roomy tent sites, nice staff. Fun playground and nature area for kids. Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls."
Water safety: Several campgrounds offer water access, but supervision is essential. At Jamaica State Park, Chris D. cautions: "People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls."
Activity options for rainy days: Kampfires offers indoor alternatives when weather doesn't cooperate. As Stephanie B. noted: "We went to experience an Airstream! And we were not disappointed. Clean, well-appointed and comfy. We had a rainy weekend and were not able to try out the pool and mini golf, but it was fun nonetheless."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many RV sites in the region require some adjustment. At Tree Farm Campground, Elizabeth M. notes: "Plenty of room, busy on holiday weekends generally very quiet. Wooded and trees between sites. Fullhook up."
Navigation challenges: The mountainous terrain requires careful planning for larger rigs. According to Katie E. at Dorset RV Park: "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."
Utility placement: Check the location of hookups when selecting sites. Katie E. also mentioned at Dorset: "The sites are relatively spacious and you aren't too close to your neighbor, but the sewer lines were a bit close to you and your picnic table in the loop."
Seasonal site options: For extended stays, look for campgrounds with dedicated seasonal areas. Michele S. observed at Crow's Nest Campground: "Mostly seasonals and RVs but there are some nice spots by the river. Most sites do not have much privacy, but the campground itself is very quiet and clean."
