Cabin accommodations near Townshend Lake range from rustic structures to modern rental units depending on the location. The area sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation with the Green Mountains creating a varied terrain throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during day with cooler evenings, while spring and fall require additional layers for comfort at cabin sites.
What to do
River activities at Winhall Brook: Visitors staying in cabins near Townshend Lake can enjoy the Winhall Brook area where two rivers intersect, creating opportunities for water recreation. At Winhall Brook Camping Area, "There are a lot of beautiful places. This campground is meticulous as it is run by the Army Corps and they have done a great job. The campground is located where Winhall River meets the West River," notes one camper. The confluence provides excellent spots for river swimming, kayaking, and tubing.
Explore local historic sites: The Vermont Country Store in nearby Weston offers a unique shopping experience within driving distance of most cabin locations. "In Weston you can find the original Vermont Country Store and that is quite the excursion," mentions a visitor who stayed at Winhall Brook. Many cabin rentals serve as convenient basebases for exploring local cultural attractions.
Hiking network access: For cabin campers seeking more rugged accommodations, Stratton Pond Shelter provides a wilderness cabin experience with trail connections. "The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter. There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter," explains a visitor. This shelter sits at the intersection of the Appalachian Trail, Long Trail and Stratton Mountain trail.
What campers like
Riverside locations: Many cabin campers appreciate waterfront settings near Townshend Lake. At Ashuelot River Campground, "Awesome campground with two of the greatest host/owners Chuck and Laura. We have been coming here for years and always enjoy the time spent here. Beautiful river to float down or paddle up," shares one visitor. The riverside cabins provide constant water sounds and easy access for recreation.
Cleanliness of facilities: Cabin renters consistently mention well-maintained facilities as a major plus. According to feedback about Ashuelot River, "Large, open campground surrounded by the Ashuelot River. Friendly owners who go around delivering wood and ice to guests given the pandemic right now." The attention to cleanliness and service makes cabin stays more comfortable.
Family activities: Cabin camping locations near Townshend Lake provide numerous family-friendly activities. At Woodford State Park Campground, "perfect for families! There are tons of different types of campsites with either tent spots, lean tos, and a few (hard to get) cabins. Bathrooms are plentiful and clean, hot showers for a small price. Beautiful clean swimmable lake with a walking trail around it."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Dorset RV Park, cabin areas fill quickly, with campers noting that site assignments can sometimes change: "We travelled as a group with family (4 sites). When we booked all our sites were right next to each other. When we arrived not a single one of us were even on the same road."
Wildlife considerations: Some cabin areas have resident wildlife that campers should be aware of. At Dorset RV Park, "While the campground is pet friendly, a warning about free roaming chickens would have been nice. I would not have brought my (prey driven) dogs if I had known there were free roaming chickens." Other facilities have reported bear activity in the vicinity.
Variable amenities: Cabin facilities vary widely in their amenities and services. One camper at Woodford State Park noted, "Token operated showers that we didn't use this time. We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning." Most locations have shared bathroom facilities rather than private restrooms in cabins.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for outdoor play spaces: Many cabin locations offer recreational areas for children. At Kampfires, formerly Hidden Acres, families appreciate the additional activities: "This is a cute campground biking distance from Brattleboro. The store and ice cream are cute, prices are very reasonable. Staff is fantastic and friendly. The mini-golf course is in kind of rough shape, ask for a few extra balls because a few holes are going to eat them."
Consider cabin placement: Families should research which cabin locations offer the best setup for children. At Woodford State Park, one visitor advised: "If you're looking for a quiet spot maybe don't look here. If you have kids and don't mind them making friends and roaming the campground then this is great! Boat rentals!"
Check temperature variations: Mountain cabin locations experience significant day-to-night temperature changes. Pack appropriate clothing layers for children, as summer days can be warm while evenings cool significantly, especially at higher elevations near Woodford State Park where temperatures often drop below 50°F at night, even in summer.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: RVers seeking cabin alternatives should note access limitations at certain locations. At Dorset RV Park, one camper warned: "Larger rigs might want to avoid loop 6-14, especially for sites 8-12. Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver. I don't think campground staff is familiar with their own campground and that larger rigs are likely to have issue in this loop."
Seasonal availability: Many cabin and RV facilities in the Townshend Lake area have limited operating seasons. At Brattleboro North KOA, facilities typically operate from mid-May through November, with one visitor noting, "This is a nice small campground right off Route 5. The owners are very friendly and knowledgeable about the area, if you need a place to rest for a weekend stop here."
