Dispersed camping options near Marlboro, Vermont include several sites in the George D Aiken Wilderness area where free primitive camping is available along forest service roads. The highest elevation campground in Vermont sits at Woodford State Park, creating cooler temperatures during summer heat waves. Winter camping is severely restricted in this region, with most established campgrounds closed after Columbus Day weekend through Memorial Day.
What to do
Paddle around Adams Reservoir: Woodford State Park Campground provides kayak and canoe rentals for exploring the water. "The reservoir is beautiful- plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming. We had no issues with noise from other campers," reports one visitor to Woodford State Park Campground.
Hike to Hamilton Falls: Jamaica State Park offers multiple trail connections to waterfall destinations. "The hike up Mt. Olga is 1.7 miles (round trip). There's a fire tower at the top, which provides awesome views of the Green Mountains. It's also fun to explore the relics of the old Hogback Ski Resort," notes a camper at Jamaica State Park Campground.
Float the Ashuelot River: Just across the New Hampshire border, river activities are popular when water levels permit. "We have been coming here for years and always enjoy the time spent here. Beautiful river to float down or paddle up. Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground," shares a visitor to Ashuelot River Campground.
What campers like
Elevated campsites: The higher elevation locations provide natural cooling during summer months. "We love the VT state parks and try to camp there 3-4 times a summer. We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning," writes a camper at Woodford State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: State park bathhouses are regularly maintained throughout the season. "Very nice clean and quiet campground. The bathroom was the best I've seen camping very clean and updated and honestly gorgeous. Everyone else there was super nice and quiet," notes a visitor to Molly Stark State Park Campground.
Proximity to towns: Many camping sites near Marlboro, Vermont offer convenient access to nearby communities. "This campground is very well kept and very clean. The bathrooms were the cleanest campground bathrooms I've ever seen! There's a small reservoir with a little beach that you can swim or kayak/canoe in," explains a camper at Woodford State Park.
What you should know
Mud season considerations: Spring camping often means dealing with significant mud on trails and at campsites. "If you plan on staying past campsites 1-3 bring extra socks and rain boots because it gets muddy. The walk is pretty long to other campsites and getting through all the mud only added to the pain of bringing things back and forth," advises a visitor to Grout Pond Campground.
Site selection matters: Campsite locations vary significantly in privacy and accessibility. "Sites are large and well maintained. Plenty of space between sites. It is a state park so there are not many services, but there is a great hike to a swimming hole and it is very close to Brattleboro, VT," shares a camper at Fort Dummer State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Bears are active throughout the region. "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.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple recreation options: Some campgrounds offer numerous activities beyond hiking. "This place is pretty awesome. They have an ice cream shop attached to their office/store, mini golf just outside of it too. There is an amphitheater for concerts and shows throughout the summer," writes a visitor to Kampfires.
Kid-friendly environment: Several campgrounds are known for being particularly welcoming to families. "If you're looking for a quiet spot maybe don't look here. If you have kids and don't mind them making friends and roaming the campground then this is great! Boat rentals!" notes a camper at Woodford State Park Campground.
Swimming access: Water features are popular with children during warmer months. "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," reports a visitor to Jamaica State Park.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: State parks in the region don't offer electric service. "Sites along the river, pull thrus in the field, shaded along the edge of the field, completely wooded area towards the end of the campground. Don't come in off of rt 10, there's a low covered, one lane bridge that you can't tow thru," advises a visitor to Ashuelot River Campground.
Private campgrounds for full service: For complete hookups, look to private facilities. "Great place to camp and access nearby hiking including the AT and LT. Clean lodge (hostel) for hikers; access to a kitchen and showers as well," notes a camper at Woodford State Park.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads for larger rigs. "Getting to the campground alone was crazy- dirt roads and very deep potholes that you can just barely avoid," reports a visitor to Grout Pond Campground.
