Camping areas near Putney, Vermont are situated along the Connecticut River Valley at elevations between 400-600 feet. The region features gentle rolling terrain with mixed hardwood forests and river valleys that influence local camping conditions. Weather can shift rapidly in southern Vermont, with summer temperatures ranging from 60-85°F and occasional evening thunderstorms common from June through August.
What to do
Kayaking the Ashuelot River: Just across the New Hampshire border, Ashuelot River Campground offers water recreation opportunities. "Great riverfront location. Huge sites and a very helpful owner. What more could you want?" notes Wayne B. The campground provides canoe rentals and shuttle service for water activities.
Hiking Mt. Olga: The 1.7-mile round-trip trail at Molly Stark State Park Campground rewards hikers with panoramic views from a fire tower. "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 Kitty. The trail connects to the Hogback Mountain Conservation area, providing additional miles of hiking options.
Rail trail access: Some campgrounds offer direct access to converted rail trails. "You can pick up the Ashuelot Rail Trail at the campground. They have canoes and kayaks on site, plus a shuttle service for water sports or biking," explains Carry M. about Ashuelot River Campground. These flat, graded paths are suitable for family biking or walking.
What campers like
River swimming spots: Campers particularly value river access for cooling off during summer months. At Winhall Brook Camping Area, "Where the two rivers intersect is a nice sport to put your feet in the water. Kids enjoy tubing the small rapids," shares Melissa L. Some campgrounds have designated swimming areas with rocky beaches.
Privacy between sites: Site layout varies widely across campgrounds, affecting privacy levels. "My tent was squished in between a permanent trailer and a weekend fifth wheeler," reports Sara Q. about one campground. In contrast, at Kenolie Village Campground, "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!" according to Lucas L.
Clean facilities: Many reviewers note facility cleanliness as a priority. "Bathrooms are clean. Only one shower stall, but hot water. Clean dishwashing station," notes Jae H. about Winhall Brook. Other campers mention that Army Corps of Engineers sites tend to have particularly well-maintained facilities.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage can be spotty throughout the region. One Winhall Brook camper mentioned "bad phone signal and everything seemed far away, like Walmart was an hour away!" Be prepared with offline maps and information about local resources.
Road access constraints: Some campgrounds have specific approach routes required. At Fort Dummer State Park Campground, "Sites are large and well maintained. Plenty of space between sites... It is very close to Brattleboro, VT." However, campers should be aware of access limitations at other campgrounds: "Highly suggest reading the directions on the campgrounds website about the covered bridge you're not allowed to cross- we discovered this the hard way," warns Mallory P.
Water level fluctuations: River conditions change throughout the season, affecting water recreation. "The river fluctuates in water level so experiences can vary throughout the year," note several campers. Early summer typically offers higher water levels for activities like tubing, while late summer may have shallower conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer specific amenities for children. Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres) stands out with diverse recreational options. "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," reports Sammii D.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for younger visitors. "There's a neat small playground with swings for the kids, a big rec hall for groups to gather and clean rest rooms," notes one camper about Bald Mountain Campground. At larger facilities, sports fields for volleyball or other activities may also be available.
Wildlife education opportunities: The forest setting offers chances to observe local animals. "Heard many awesome noises from lots of wildlife!" mentions Lucas L. about Kenolie Village. Some campgrounds provide nature programs during summer months, offering structured learning activities about local ecology.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites can be limited at state parks. "There are a few sites with hookups but since we like to be near the river, we opted for other areas," explains Gail P. about Winhall Brook. Private campgrounds generally offer more hookup options, while state parks often have more limited electrical and water connections.
Site leveling challenges: Many Vermont campgrounds have varying degrees of level sites. "Sites are good sized (had water and 30amp) and the campground was very clean and well kept," notes John O. about Ashuelot River Campground. Campers should bring leveling blocks as terrain throughout the region can be uneven.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dumping. "Dumpsters are a mile from your campsite," notes Neal C. about waste disposal at one location. RVers should confirm dump station availability and location when booking, as some facilities require off-site dumping at designated stations.
