Camping sites near Vershire, Vermont range from established campgrounds with amenities to more rustic options in the surrounding Green Mountains. Located at approximately 1,330 feet elevation in the Vermont highlands, Vershire experiences temperature swings that can bring frost even in June and September. Camping access roads often remain unpaved and can become rutted after rain, making high clearance vehicles advantageous when exploring more remote camping locations.
What to do
Swimming in mountain ponds: Ricker Pond State Park Campground features a motor-free pond perfect for swimming and paddling. "The pond is serene and a great place to swim, paddle, explore, and fish. If you paddle or swim to the other side of the camp ground, there is a huge rock with a rope swing," notes Hannah H.
Explore Vermont-New Hampshire border: Camping near the state line provides access to both states' attractions. "You're near the Vermont-New Hampshire border area with several family-owned campgrounds with varying levels of amenities, from primitive sites to full-hookup RV spots," explains one camper about the region.
Hiking on rail trails: Many campgrounds connect to regional trails. "I brought my trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground," shares Emma B. about her stay at Ricker Pond State Park.
Visit historic sites: The region features numerous historic attractions within driving distance of camping areas. Nearby Woodstock contains the Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park, described by one camper as "an awesome destination for families" just a short drive from camp.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Jacobs Brook Campground offers secluded camping spots. "Sites are a little small but great if you're camping with a group so your close together. Plenty of sites/types to choose from... Trails around property gave you the ability to take walks in the woods," reports Michaela T.
Natural water features: Streams and ponds enhance many camping areas. "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," explains Jean C. about Jacobs Brook.
Seasonal attractions: Fall camping brings spectacular colors but requires preparation. "I stayed in October and it was really quiet and relaxing. There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," notes Michele S. about her experience at Ricker Pond State Park.
Lean-to options: Quechee State Park Campground provides alternatives to traditional tent camping. "They offer showers that cost you a few quarters. There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in a RV. They also have several lean tos that you can rent," explains Jan B.
What you should know
Cell coverage limitations: Many campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "It's a little far from the Groton store though if you run out of something... There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," warns Tessa H. about Ricker Pond.
Temperature fluctuations: Night temperatures can drop substantially even in summer. The region experiences significant temperature variations, with nights potentially dropping below 45°F even during peak summer camping season.
Site reservation timing: Rest N Nest Campground in East Thetford fills quickly. "Owners were very welcoming and helpful. The bathrooms were cleaner than mine at home. Nostalgic feel with playground, pool, and rec hall," shares Ashley O. Booking well in advance is essential during summer and fall.
Shower facilities: Many campgrounds offer pay showers. "Bathrooms are clean. Showers, which we did not use, were $0.25 for four minutes. There was a microwave and wash sink as well for dishes," notes Jennifer L. about facilities at local campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Moose Hillock Camping Resort offers dedicated children's areas. "Family friendly campground. Short drive to see wildlife from the road," says Matt D. The campground features "a huge pool and water slides" that families particularly enjoy.
Choose sites away from roads: Safety considerations matter with young campers. "The playground is across this busy road which I find very dangerous IMO," cautions Jackie L. about one campground layout, highlighting the importance of selecting family-appropriate sites.
Check for family programming: Some campgrounds offer organized 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)," shares Jen B. about her family experience at Quechee State Park.
Consider noise factors: Family-friendly campgrounds enforce quiet hours differently. "The reason I didn't rate it 5 Stars was that the bath house we used seemed to be having issues for most of the week. On many occasions the toilets were clogged," notes Diana A. about facility maintenance that can affect family camping quality.
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: Willoughby Farm Animal Rescue offers accessible RV spots. "I brought my tag camper and was able to get it hooked up to the shore power and got to spend some time up in the woods and it was really easy to find," reports Robin R.
Hookup considerations: RV sites with hookups require advance planning. "Our site (camper trailer) was one of the largest sites we've stayed in. They also did a great job of maintaining the beauty of the mountains and landscape," explains Michaela T. about her RV site at Jacobs Brook.
Dump station access: Verify waste disposal options before arrival. "There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in a RV," notes Jan B. about facilities at Quechee State Park Campground that serve RV campers without full hookups.
Low clearance challenges: Be aware of road conditions leading to camp. "Spring conditions often bring muddy roads, especially at dispersed sites, making high-clearance vehicles advisable," warns one local camping expert about accessing sites after rain.
