Townshend Lake camping options range across several nearby Vermont state parks and private campgrounds at elevations between 570 and 1,400 feet in the West River Valley. The region sits within the southern Green Mountains, creating varied camping terrain with both riverside and mountain-adjacent sites. Seasonal temperature variations span from summer highs around 80°F to nighttime lows near 45°F in early fall, affecting site selection and gear requirements.
What to do
Hiking to viewpoints and waterfalls: Jamaica State Park Campground offers several trail options leading to scenic destinations. One camper noted, "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." The park provides direct trail access without needing to drive elsewhere.
Mountain biking on former railroad beds: The West River Trail at Winhall Brook Camping Area creates an excellent biking route following the historic West River Railroad path. "There is river swimming, hiking and biking on the West River Bike Trail, theater in the summer in Weston and wonderful towns all around," shares a visitor who enjoyed the multi-use trail system.
Water activities on rivers and lakes: Multiple water-based recreation options exist throughout the area. At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, campers can enjoy a unique swimming experience: "Swimmers can swim out the a small island in the middle of the lake and check out the rope swing." For river tubing, Bald Mountain Campground provides easy access with one camper explaining, "We usually start just below the Townshend Dam by the covered bridge and can float about 20 minutes to the campground or stay floating down river for hours."
What campers like
River sounds and access: Campers consistently mention appreciating riverside sites and natural water sounds. At Bald Mountain Campground, one reviewer shared, "The river was magnificent and I could hear it babble by all night; very relaxing once the place quieted down." Most riverfront sites book quickly, especially during summer.
Proximity to small towns: The convenient location near distinctive Vermont communities appeals to many visitors. Molly Stark State Park Campground puts you near both Manchester and Brattleboro, with one camper explaining it's "a lovely campground in Southern VT, again very close to our favorite little hippie town Brattleboro VT." Another mentioned, "We enjoyed a fun day at Mount Snow which is close by with restaurants and things to do in that area."
Night sky viewing: The relative darkness of many campgrounds allows for excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper at Woodford State Park Campground shared their experience: "We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning," highlighting the natural soundscape that accompanies night sky viewing at higher elevation campgrounds in the region.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Campground layouts differ greatly in terms of site isolation and proximity. At Grout Pond Campground, "The sites are well dispersed and private" according to one visitor, while at other locations like Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres), sites can be more open. A camper noted, "This place is pretty awesome. They have an ice cream shop attached to their office/store, mini golf just outside of it too."
Access roads can be challenging: Several campgrounds, particularly those at higher elevations, feature unpaved approach roads. One Grout Pond visitor warned, "Getting to the campground alone was crazy- dirt roads and very deep potholes that you can just barely avoid." Fall and spring visitors should check road conditions before traveling.
Facilities maintenance varies by season: Early and late season campers may find different facility conditions. A Fort Dummer State Park Campground reviewer observed, "Bathrooms are a tad small and one shower per gendered room. Shower takes coins. Not free." Most state park bathrooms operate with coin-operated showers, requiring quarters.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Kampfires, a visitor described finding "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." Activity options keep children engaged between outdoor adventures.
Consider site location within campgrounds: At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, a camper advised, "If you have little ones, check out the map before you reserve a site and find one on the opposite side of the ledge," noting that "many of them are perched on a steep ledge, making them a bit sketchy for families with kids."
Be prepared for seasonal weather variations: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, especially in spring and fall. A Molly Stark camper shared, "We camped for two nights in Lean-tos with 20 Girls and Leaders. It's a great place to bring a Troop and use the lake and trails for badges." Lean-to sites provide protection from unpredictable mountain weather.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup specifications: Most campgrounds offer limited electrical connections. At Brattleboro North KOA, facilities include full hookups with one camper noting, "Owners very accommodating. Unfortunately it rained most of the time we were there, but campground was quiet and worry free." Full-service hookups can be essential during extended rain periods.
Plan for satellite and cell coverage limitations: Mountain terrain impacts connectivity throughout the region. A Winhall Brook camper mentioned, "Only downside for us was bad phone signal and everything seemed far away, like Walmart was an hour away!" RVers relying on cellular data or satellite services should prepare for intermittent signals.
Navigation to sites can be tight: Larger RVs may struggle with access at some campgrounds. At Woodford State Park, a visitor observed that "overhanging trees would make it difficult for larger equipment, plus saw posting that excludes trailers from certain roads." Contact campgrounds directly when traveling with RVs over 30 feet to confirm accessibility.
