Best Campgrounds near West Dover, VT
Camping opportunities around West Dover, Vermont include both established campgrounds and dispersed options in the Green Mountain National Forest. Several Vermont State Parks serve the area, including Molly Stark State Park Campground, located approximately 10 miles west of West Dover on Route 9, and Woodford State Park Campground about 15 miles southwest. These developed facilities accommodate tent camping, RVs, and in some locations, cabins and lean-tos. Dispersed camping can be found at locations like Somerset Airfield and George D Aiken Wilderness areas for those seeking more primitive experiences.
Vermont state parks in the region typically operate from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend, with most facilities closing after the fall foliage season. Camping during the peak summer months and autumn color season often requires advance reservations, particularly for sites with amenities like showers and electrical hookups. Many campgrounds in the area maintain clean facilities but offer limited or no hookups for RVs. Winter camping options are extremely limited as most established campgrounds close seasonally. "This park is close to my house in southern Vermont. We usually visit during the day to hike to the top of the Mt. Olga firetower. It's always clean and very quiet," noted one visitor about Molly Stark State Park.
The region's campgrounds receive consistently positive reviews for their natural settings and maintenance. Molly Stark State Park features hiking trails accessible directly from the campground, including the popular 1.7-mile round trip to the Mt. Olga fire tower with panoramic views of the Green Mountains. Several campers highlighted the privacy of sites, particularly those on the outer loops of established campgrounds. According to one review, "Sites are large, hiking trails within the campground. This is a very clean campground, no hookups but there is a dump station and water available." For those seeking solitude, dispersed camping areas provide more isolation but fewer amenities. Proximity to local towns like Wilmington offers convenient access to supplies and dining options while maintaining a wilderness camping experience.