Campgrounds near Vernon, Vermont range between 1,000 and 1,500 feet in elevation with terrain characterized by rolling hills and forest-covered landscapes. The Connecticut River forms a natural boundary to the east, where New Hampshire begins. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day with cooler 55-65°F nights, making proper layering essential for comfort when camping.
What to do
Tube on the Ashuelot River: At Ashuelot River Campground, visitors enjoy water activities during warmer months. "We took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit," notes a camper from 2025.
Hiking at Mount Olga: The trail system at Molly Stark State Park provides a moderate 1.7-mile round trip hike to a fire tower with panoramic views. "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," reports a reviewer.
Mini-golf and recreation: Family activities are available at various campgrounds in the region. "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," mentions a visitor about Kampfires campground.
What campers like
Clean, modernized facilities: Campground bathrooms in the region receive high marks for cleanliness and upkeep. "THE BATHROOM was the best I've seen camping very clean and updated and honestly gorgeous," shares one camper about Molly Stark State Park Campground. Another adds that their "sites are large and well maintained."
River access for kayaking: Water enthusiasts appreciate campgrounds with direct water access. "Great riverfront location. Huge sites and a very helpful owner. What more could you want?" says a visitor about Ashuelot River Campground. Another mentions "You can pick up the Ashuelot Rail Trail at the campground. They have canoes and kayaks on site, plus a shuttle service for water sports or biking."
Smaller, quieter camping experience: Several campgrounds offer a more intimate setting. At Brattleboro North KOA, a visitor appreciates that it's "Small and quiet. The pool was sparkling clean and the best part, not a bunch of screaming kids running around. There's a market next door with fresh fruit and veggies for sale."
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Bear sightings occur in the region, requiring proper food storage. A camper at Kampfires reported, "SURPRISE- when I went to hook up the water, a pile of fresh bear scat was right there! They did say there was wildlife in the area!"
Site selection considerations: At Tully Lake Recreation Area, "The sites here are great, if you aren't bringing too much with you. There is no parking at each site, but a parking lot, then you can use a cart to truck your things in, anywhere from a few yards to about a mile."
Road noise at some locations: Traffic can be heard at certain campgrounds. A visitor at Molly Stark notes, "It is near Route 9 so not much quiet during the day, but at night its great." Similarly, at Ashuelot River Campground, "Only downside is it's pretty close to the main road and you hear a majority of the traffic."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for carry-in campsites: Some parks require equipment to be carried to sites. "You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site," explains a camper about Tully Lake. This means "no noise or disturbances from cars entering your camp sites."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water access for families. One camper shares: "This was the trifecta for us, where we could fish, kayak, and swim! We really enjoyed our stay and look forward to booking again soon!"
Playground access: Gilson Pond Area Campground offers "a very nice playground--new!" according to one review. Another mentions, "There is a large playground for kids <12 and a wide open day use area for picnicking. It would be a great place to run around and play games."
Tips from RVers
Low clearance warnings: Pay attention to route instructions when driving larger vehicles. A visitor at Ashuelot River Campground recommends, "Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low Clearance and low weight limits."
Site selection for solar power: For those using solar, choose sites with appropriate sun exposure. "No electric hookups and if you're on solar power as we were, choose a site (#26 is a good choice) with fewer trees," advises a camper about Fort Dummer State Park Campground.
Hook-up availability: At some campgrounds, hookups vary by site. At Ashuelot River, "Sites have fire rings with excellent airflow for good burning with low smoke. Hook ups are in great condition for power, water, sewer." However, at Fort Dummer, visitors should note there are "No electric hookups" available anywhere in the campground.
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