Vermont campgrounds around West Dover feature diverse terrain from wooded riversides to mountain settings at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet. The camping season typically runs from mid-May through Columbus Day weekend, with most campsites closing by mid-October. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night, while fall brings colorful foliage and cooler conditions.
What to do
Swimming at natural sites: The Battenkill River provides excellent swimming opportunities at Camping on the Battenkill. "The beach on the river is beautiful and clean! Easy swimming for all," notes Christina M. The river also offers tubing options for those who want a more relaxing water experience.
Hiking to waterfalls: Jamaica State Park Campground has multiple trail options leading to impressive waterfalls. "There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools," writes Jackie G. Hikes range from easy riverside walks to more challenging terrain.
Mountain exploration: Molly Stark State Park Campground offers access to mountain trails and lookout points. "The hike up Mt. Olga is 1.7 miles (round trip). There's a fire tower at the top, which provides awesome views of the Green Mountains," shares Tara S. The interconnected trails lead to the Hogback Mountain Conservation area.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Woodford State Park Campground maintains exceptionally well-kept bathrooms and common areas. "The bathrooms were the cleanest campground bathrooms I've ever seen!" reports Jenny A. The campground also features a well-maintained waterfront area with a small reservoir.
Riverside sites: Many campers value the tranquil waterfront locations at Jamaica State Park Campground. "We managed to get a prime leanto site right on the river. We were only there for an overnight but we will be back. The prime lean-to sites on the water are beautiful and spacious," explains M.A.D. P.
Privacy between sites: Tree Farm Campground offers good separation between campsites for a more private experience. "The campground is clean and quiet, with sites that are spacious and private," notes Lee A. Many campsites feature natural barriers of trees and brush for additional seclusion.
What you should know
No cell service in many areas: Be prepared for limited connectivity at most campgrounds. "Find something that you dont like about this park... go ahead, ill wait. Small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world," shares Brittany B. about Jamaica State Park Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (July-October). "When we checked in, there was a sign that personnel were working in the park and there was a phone number for us to call. They responded right away and met us at the office and showed us where our site was," explains Nancy W. about her experience at Dorset RV Park.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly. "Then the fun began as the wind blew the storms out and temperatures plummeted to 8° and a windchill of -3 for this morning. Everything crusted was over with a good inch of ice," writes Miccal M. about winter camping at Somerset Airfield, demonstrating the extreme conditions possible in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Camping on the Battenkill offers dedicated play areas for children. "My family and I have been camping here for 40 years. 4 of my 5 children learned to ride their bikes on the circle that surrounds the playground," shares David M. The campground provides an environment where children can safely enjoy outdoor activities.
Swimming holes: Look for campgrounds with gentle water access. "For us, they also had a playground to play at, and a boat dock to kayak. The bugs were not fun in the summer," reports Meike W. about Jamaica State Park Campground, highlighting the family-friendly amenities available.
Nature education: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly nature programs. "They have a nice grassy area on the water that's dog-friendly, and a separate little no-dog swimming and paddle boat area. Trails were pretty enough if basic, Park also provided a guide to nearby hiking," notes one camper about Woodford State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies significantly: At Tree Farm Campground, RV sites require careful positioning. "While searching online we learned that Vermont state parks do not have hook ups. We are a family of five with a pop up pull behind and the Glamping lifestyle is a little bit easier on us these days," writes Emily H. The campground offers full hookup options that state parks don't provide.
Navigating steep terrain: RV sites near West Dover often involve navigating mountain roads and campground entrances. "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," cautions Katie E. about Dorset RV Park.
Seasonal variations in site availability: RV campers should know that Mt. Greylock Campsite Park offers wooded sites suitable for different RV sizes. "The campground has great amenities and great feel to it. Stayed for 2 nights while on a trip further up north," reports Brett D. The campground's layout accommodates RVs of varying lengths with hookup options.
