Camping options around Union Village Dam include both rustic and modern sites within a 20-mile radius. The area sits at the junction of the Ompompanoosuc River and the Connecticut River Valley, creating a landscape of rolling hills and waterways. Union Village Dam campsites experience typical New England seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Jacobs Brook Campground, campers can access the brook that runs through the property. "There's a book that runs through the campground, providing a shady respite and swimming hole in a hot summer day. Only one of the sites is located along the brook (45), but there's an easy path down a hill," notes one visitor.
River recreation: Near Union Village Dam campsites, water activities are popular. The Pastures Campground offers direct river access according to visitors: "Lots of room; nice pool and a playground; right on the Connecticut River," reports Jake H., making it convenient for kayaking and swimming.
Hiking access: Appalachian Trail segments are accessible from several Union Village Dam camping areas. A hiker at Moose Mountain Backcountry Shelter mentioned, "The shelter did stand out with a bench overlooking a clearing in the brush with a view which was a great place to enjoy my freeze dried dinner."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Quechee State Park Campground, campers appreciate the layout. A reviewer noted, "Big, flat, beautiful sites. Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant. Might be the nicest bathrooms I've seen in decades of camping."
Clean facilities: Many Union Village Dam camping areas maintain quality restrooms. At Quechee-Pine Valley KOA, a visitor mentioned, "This KOA is what you expect from a KOA– lots of amenities, sites of all sizes and levels of cost, tons of activities, and in a vacation destination area."
Winter accessibility: While most regional campgrounds close seasonally, Storrs Pond Recreation Area remains open year-round. A September visitor noted, "I had site 1 which is near office but away from all other sites so it was very quiet. It's a large site with a nearby brook on 2 sides."
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Backcountry sites have unreliable water sources, especially in summer. At Happy Hill Backcountry Shelter, a hiker observed, "There wasn't any water at the source while I was staying here and it looks like a seasonal source."
Site configurations: Some campgrounds have unusual site layouts. At Storrs Pond Recreation Area, a camper pointed out, "Only complaint is the site is set up 'backwards' - the electric hookups are on door side of rv and the picnic table/main area of site is on non door side."
Pet policies: Rules vary by location. Moose Hillock Camping Resort is pet-friendly but has specific areas for dogs, with one camper noting: "There is a fenced dog park which was a fairly good size and our lab was happy to chase a ball."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Moose Hillock Camping Resort offers water recreation popular with children. "The pool really is as awesome as it looks. The playground is amazing," shared one parent, while another added, "Night swimming, entertainment on some nights, big sites, fishing, camp store with decent prices."
Ranger programs: Educational activities add value for kids at select Union Village Dam campsites. At Quechee State Park Campground, a family mentioned, "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.)"
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas. Rest N Nest Campground includes "nostalgic feel with playground, pool, and rec hall," according to a recent visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some Union Village Dam camping areas. A visitor at Rest N Nest Campground observed, "Awesome owners with a small campground! Swimming pond and pool. Small Playground. Pull through, back in, tent sites."
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups vary widely. At Jacobs Brook Campground, sites include different services with a visitor reporting, "Hosts were very nice and welcoming. Very calm considering the holiday weekend. Private sights with good access to facilities and bathhouse."
Connectivity issues: Cell service and WiFi access is limited. At Moose Hillock Camping Resort, a camper advised, "If you are in dire need of WiFi, it is nearly non-existent on the grounds, you can get it a little here & there in the pool area."
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