Jamaica State Park sits at 1,000 feet elevation in the West River Valley of Vermont's Green Mountains. The surrounding forest transitions between hardwood and coniferous trees, creating diverse camping environments depending on site selection. Temperatures typically drop 15-20 degrees at night even during summer months, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
What to do
Hiking to Hamilton Falls: At Jamaica State Park, visitors can access the 2-mile West River Trail leading to Hamilton Falls. "Great hiking or biking along the West River! Clean well kept level areas," notes Chris S. about the park's trail system that connects directly from the campground.
Swimming in quarries: Near Dorset RV Park, swimmers can enjoy unique Vermont swimming experiences. "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," reports Rachelle S.
Kayaking on calm waters: Woodford State Park offers paddling opportunities on a small reservoir with rental equipment available. "The reservoir is beautiful- plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming," shares Melissa S., who brought borrowed kayaks to this Vermont state park.
What campers like
Riverfront camping spots: At Jamaica State Park, waterfront sites provide natural white noise for sleeping. "We managed to get a prime leanto site right on the river. We were only there for an overnight but we will be back. In the Spring the water is released behind Ball Dam, creating a white water adventure," writes M.A.D. P.
Clean facilities: Molly Stark State Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "THE BATHROOM was the best I've seen camping very clean and updated and honestly gorgeous. Everyone else there was super nice and quiet. Quiet hours start at 10 but it was silent after about 9," says Beck P., highlighting the importance of park cleanliness.
Natural swimming areas: Camping on the Battenkill provides direct river access for cooling off. "Small, mostly wooded, quiet campground. Facilities were spotless. The owners are so nice and welcoming. Great river for tubing or hanging out in the swimming hole," comments Ripp D. about their summer experience.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many Vermont campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "Find something that you dont like about this park... go ahead, ill wait. Small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world," explains Brittany B. about Jamaica State Park.
Weather variability: Vermont camping requires preparation for sudden temperature changes and rain even in summer. Be ready with waterproof gear and extra clothing layers.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through mid-October, with peak foliage season in late September creating high demand for sites.
Reservation requirements: Advanced booking is essential during summer and fall foliage seasons when campgrounds routinely reach capacity, especially for holiday weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: Tree Farm Campground offers safe water activities. "We needed some serious forest bathing and spontaneously decided to head to the green mountains. While searching online we learned that Vermont state parks do not have hook ups. The highlight was finding the awesome swimming hole at Buttermere falls next to Okemo," shares emily H.
Nature programs: Many Vermont state parks offer ranger-led educational activities during peak season, teaching about local wildlife and ecology.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "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," notes Fransheska A. about Jamaica State Park.
Pack extra clothing: Mountain weather changes quickly, so bring additional warm layers even in summer.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Full-service rv sites near Jamaica, Vermont are limited within state parks. "There are 4-5 stunningly beautiful sites in each of the three loops and everything else is jammed in," reports one camper at Woodford State Park about site variations.
Size limitations: Most campgrounds accommodate smaller to medium RVs. "The roads and campsites are gravel and a little tight to get around because of all the trees but we were able to manage in our 45' motorhome," notes Nancy W. about navigating Dorset RV Park.
Leveling requirements: Some rv camping sites near Jamaica require additional equipment. "Our site was level but some definitely were not. We got twenty or so television channels with the cable hookup," adds Nancy W. about site conditions.
Water fill stations: Even without full hookups, most campgrounds provide water access. Bring extra hoses if staying at sites farther from spigots.
