Camping options near Townshend, Vermont span from forest service sites to riverfront campgrounds across elevations ranging from 500 to 2000 feet. Summer temperatures typically average 75-80°F during the day with overnight lows in the 50s, while fall brings cooler conditions with daytime highs in the 60s. Most local campgrounds restrict generators to preserve the natural soundscape.
What to do
Hiking trails at Jamaica State Park: The park features the West River Trail leading to Hamilton Falls, a 2-mile gravel path followed by a 1-mile uphill hike. "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," reports one camper at Jamaica State Park Campground.
Water recreation at Grout Pond: The pond offers paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming with tent platform sites around the shoreline. "Has an awesome spot to go paddle boarding or kayaking! In fact you can load up your water vessel and go across the lake to your campsite!" notes a visitor to Grout Pond Campground.
Tubing on the West River: Tube the gentle rapids from Townshend Dam down to Bald Mountain Campground. One camper mentions, "Kids enjoy tubing the small rapids. We go for 2 weeks most every summer" at Winhall Brook Camping Area.
Visit local towns: Brattleboro offers shopping, dining, and cultural attractions just 20-30 minutes from most campgrounds. A camper at Fort Dummer State Park recommends "Very close to downtown Brattleboro. If you have ever visited the cool little boho downtown definitely check it out. Fill up on your favorite IPA and fresh food at the Co-op and you are 5 min from the campground."
What campers like
Riverside sites with natural soundscapes: Waterfront camping provides constant ambient sounds for relaxation. "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. The prime lean-to sites on the water are beautiful and spacious," says a camper at Jamaica State Park Campground.
Clean facilities maintained by park staff: Multiple campgrounds receive praise for their maintenance standards. At Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres), one visitor notes: "The bathrooms are beautifully redone and clean. The laundry room is pretty good too. Its close to Brattleboro and Putney and just across the border to New Hampshire."
Recreation amenities beyond hiking: Many campgrounds offer additional activities for families. "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...a dog park, badminton, basketball, horseshoe, shuffleboard, the works," reports a Kampfires visitor.
Dark skies for stargazing: Open field sites at several campgrounds provide excellent night sky viewing. "Sites located along the river are wooded, field sites are very open great for seeing the stars at night," mentions a visitor at Ashuelot River Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels affect activities: River conditions change throughout the season, impacting swimming and paddling options. "The river fluctuates in water level so experiences can vary throughout the year," notes a Bald Mountain camper.
Site privacy varies significantly: Research your specific site before booking. "The sites are pretty big and somewhat private which is nice," says one camper at Woodford State Park Campground, while others at different campgrounds mention close quarters.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have poor connectivity. "Only downside for us was bad phone signal and everything seemed far away, like Walmart was an hour away!" reports a visitor to Winhall Brook.
Tick awareness necessary: Due to wooded locations, tick protection is essential. Bring repellent and conduct tick checks after outdoor activities.
Varying bathroom facilities: Some campgrounds offer token-operated showers while others have limited facilities. "Bathrooms and showers a short walk. Two different hiking trails are in the park with plenty a drive away," mentions a Fort Dummer visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and swimming areas: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated children's recreation zones. "Fun playground and nature area for kids. Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls," reports a visitor at Molly Stark State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly hiking: Choose trails appropriate for children's abilities. "The hike up Mt. Olga is 1.7 miles (round trip). There's a fire tower at the top, which provides awesome views of the Green Mountains. It's also fun to explore the relics of the old Hogback Ski Resort," notes a Molly Stark camper.
Rental boats for water fun: Some campgrounds offer affordable boat rentals. "The reservoir is beautiful- plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming," reports a Woodford State Park camper about the lake.
Food access considerations: Stock up before arrival as grocery options may be limited. "If in town stop by saloon for a great lunch," suggests a Grout Pond visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Electric, water, and sewer connections are only available at select campgrounds. At Brattleboro North KOA, amenities include "water and 30/50 amp service."
Site leveling requirements: Prepare for varying site conditions. "The site was level and easy to get into and park," reports an Ashuelot River Campground visitor about site 59.
Access road challenges: Some campgrounds have restricted access routes. "Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low Clearance and low weight limits," warns an Ashuelot River visitor.
Wood delivery services: Several campgrounds offer firewood delivery directly to your site. "I recommend you order a bucket of wood from the office as soon as you check in and they will drive the loader over to your site," advises a Bald Mountain camper.
