Thetford sits in Vermont's eastern region, near the Vermont-New Hampshire border with the Connecticut River serving as the state line. The area's dense woodlands at elevations between 500-1,200 feet create ideal camping conditions with moderate temperatures from May through October. Winter camping options are limited with most campgrounds closing after mid-October due to Vermont's snowy conditions.
What to do
Water activities at Connecticut River access points: The Connecticut River provides multiple swimming spots where visitors can cool off during summer heat. At Pastures Campground in nearby Orford, NH, campers appreciate river access. "Adorable little camp! In New Hampshire; Vermont is across the river on the north side of the property," notes Kathy S.
Hiking the Quechee Gorge Trail: This moderately challenging trail descends from Route 4 down to the bottom of Vermont's deepest gorge. Quechee State Park Campground offers direct access. "The Quechee Gorge, best accessed from the back of the lawn behind the bathhouse, is the deepest in Vermont... It's a ~30 minute hike, you can access some slow semi-rapids at the bottom," explains reviewer B.
Seasonal programming for children: Some local campgrounds organize structured activities. "Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee)," writes Jen B. about her family's experience at Quechee State Park.
What campers like
Wooded campsites with brook access: The running water provides both ambiance and recreation opportunities. At Jacobs Brook Campground, "Trails around property gave you the ability to take walks in the woods. Cute little brook runs along the property," according to Michaela T., who appreciated the natural setting.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the region maintain exceptionally well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. At Rest N Nest Campground in East Thetford, "The bathrooms were cleaner than mine at home," reports Ashley O., highlighting the campground's commitment to cleanliness.
Dark skies for stargazing: The rural Vermont/New Hampshire border region offers minimal light pollution for astronomy enthusiasts. "The night sky is lovely to look at in the middle of the field they have," notes Brandon C. about his experience at Pine Haven, making it ideal for stargazing.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate from mid-May through mid-October. Quechee State Park typically opens "May 19 to October 16," with similar seasons at other nearby facilities.
Road noise at some locations: Proximity to main roads can affect the wilderness experience. At Quechee State Park, "Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant," according to reviewer B., something to consider when selecting a site.
Limited cell service: Many campers report spotty or non-existent connectivity in the region. At Pine Haven, "Our cell service was completely gone here, and it felt like we were in the middle of nowhere," reports Laura L., making it important to plan communications accordingly.
Varied terrain: The campgrounds near Thetford often feature sloping or uneven ground. Storrs Pond Recreation Area has "Tent sites [that] were hilly/uneven and extremely far from the toilets and bathhouse," according to Cheryl K.
Tips for camping with families
Dog friendly campgrounds near Thetford: Most campgrounds in the area welcome pets with specific rules. Lake Champagne Resort offers "great dog walking areas, and very spacious dog parks, one for big dos and one for little ones," according to Christopher S.
Water features for cooling off: During summer heat, access to swimming is important. Pine Haven has sites "right on the river and the view was amazing... The bathrooms were decently clean and the showers did not need quarters," according to Kayleen C., making it easier for families to clean up after water play.
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds feature steep terrain that can be challenging. Moose Hillock Camping Resort has "very hilly terrain" and "if you have never been before, book a sight as close as possible to the pool and office, because the further you get, the higher the altitude," advises Jessica W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Many campgrounds offer a mix of open and wooded sites. At Quechee State Park, "The sites are large. If you stay in the back it's quieter," recommends Jan B., noting the campground offers no hookups but does provide a dump station.
Hookup availability: RV camping options vary from basic to full-service. Quechee-Pine Valley KOA provides "campgrounds for all types of camping" with water, electric, and sewer connections for larger rigs, according to Donna C.
Space between sites: Campground density varies significantly across the region. At Lake Champagne Resort, campers appreciate that the "Campground is very clean, friendly, peaceful and lots of room," notes Monique C., making it easier to maneuver larger vehicles.
