Best Campgrounds near Putney, VT
Campgrounds near Putney, Vermont range from state parks to private resorts, primarily concentrated along Route 5 and the West River valley. Jamaica State Park and Fort Dummer State Park offer tent and RV camping with basic amenities in natural settings, while private campgrounds like Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres) and Brattleboro North KOA provide full hookup sites and cabin rentals. The region's mix of wooded and riverfront camping areas accommodates various preferences from primitive tent sites to full-service RV camping.
The camping season in southern Vermont typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with most campgrounds closing after Columbus Day weekend. "This is a small and super friendly park with several hiking options. Sites are clean and surrounded by forest," noted one visitor about Townshend State Park. Winter conditions and spring mud season make most camping areas inaccessible outside the main season. Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends and holiday periods when campgrounds reach capacity. Many campgrounds in the Putney area feature water access, with the Connecticut River and West River providing recreational opportunities, though water levels can fluctuate throughout the season.
Waterfront sites at campgrounds like Bald Mountain receive particular attention from visitors. A camper described, "River front sites are not usually available for a weekend but you can always access the West River via the 2 beaches set aside for campers." Several reviewers noted the family-friendly atmosphere at many of the established campgrounds in the region. Kampfires earned mentions for its amenities including a pool, mini-golf, and an ice cream shop. The proximity to downtown Brattleboro (approximately 15-20 minutes from most campgrounds) allows campers to enjoy local shops and dining while maintaining a rural camping experience. Many camping areas provide hiking access, with trails in Fort Dummer State Park and Jamaica State Park connecting directly to campground facilities.