Vermont's Green Mountain campgrounds offer diverse outdoor recreation opportunities near South Londonderry. Located at elevations ranging from 800-2,500 feet, the region features forested mountains with numerous streams and small lakes. Seasonal temperature variations create distinct camping experiences, with summer daytime temperatures typically ranging 70-85°F and nighttime temperatures dropping to 45-60°F.
What to do
Swimming at natural spots: Jamaica State Park Campground provides access to the West River with multiple swimming areas. "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," notes one visitor at Jamaica State Park Campground.
Hiking local trails: Access multiple hiking paths directly from camp at Woodford State Park. "There's a walking trail around it. beautiful clean swimmable lake with a walking trail around it," reports a camper. The park connects to longer regional trails including sections of the Appalachian Trail, offering day hikes with elevation gains of 500-1,500 feet.
Paddling opportunities: Grout Pond Campground provides calm waters ideal for kayaking and canoeing. "If you're paddling in, you can unload all your stuff in the day-use area, and then park your car in the lot. It's an easy 5-minute paddle to most of the sites," explains a camper at Grout Pond Campground.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Many visitors appreciate waterfront sites at Jamaica State Park. "The campsites were beautiful with the river behind us. Not to many people there so we're got the best spot. The bathrooms are sanitary and are not port-a-potties. For us, they also had a playground to play at, and a boat dock to kayak."
Fall season camping: Autumn brings reduced crowds and spectacular foliage. "We were lucky to have 70 degree days and 50 degree nights in October. We were the only campers along the waterfront, but there were a few car campers in the sites near the road. Early October is just about perfect - no bugs, no people, and fantastic views all around."
Nearby attractions: Camping on the Battenkill offers access to both outdoor activities and towns. "My family and I have been camping here for 40 years. 4 of my 5 children learned to ride their bikes on the circle that surrounds the playground," shares a regular visitor. The campground's location provides convenient access to Manchester shopping area within 15 minutes.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate from May through mid-October. "Visited Grout Pond Recreation area on 11/6/22 and found that it was closed to campers. The sites around the pond are being enlarged. The sites are framed in and filled with compacted sand," reports a late-season visitor.
Site selection matters: At Tree Farm Campground, site layout varies considerably. "Spacious, wooded sites, super clean...friendly, helpful owners and gorgeous setting! Lots to do too," notes one camper, while another mentions, "Lit's of kids. Nicest sites are taken by seasonal. Sewer and water hookups. Safari field isn't nice, they crowd you in."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly, with temperature swings of 30°F possible in a single day. Nights remain cool even in summer. "Temps during day around 65-70°F. Nights dipped to 45-55°F," reports a September visitor at Grout Pond.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. At Molly Stark State Park Campground, families find "Beautiful grounds, super clean, nice staff. A great escape from the world right now." The park includes hiking trails suitable for children, with the Mount Olga trail being 1.7 miles round trip.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas. "The reservoir is beautiful- plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming. We had no issues with noise from other campers," notes a visitor to Woodford State Park.
Educational opportunities: Many state parks offer ranger programs during peak season. "The campground is nice and wooded, the roads in the campground are good shape with well packed gravel. They also have roaming chickens with FREE eggs, first come first serve," explains a visitor at Dorset RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers at Dorset RV Park report variable conditions. "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," shares one RVer. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended as sites can have slopes of 2-4 inches across their length.
Utility hookups: Tree Farm Campground provides water and electric connections. "We are very happy seasonal campers. It is under new ownership and the new manager is just spectacular, Janet will go out of her way to be extra helpful and accommodating and friendly as well as hands on. Our site has S/W/E with cable and wifi, and is nicely shaded."
Access road considerations: When planning RV camping near South Londonderry, Vermont, prepare for narrow access roads at some campgrounds. "Overall, the park is OK regarding the physical attributes, minus the larger rig issue discussed below. Shower house was clean, sites are relatively spacious and you aren't too close to your neighbor, but the sewer lines were a bit close to you and your picnic table in the loop."
