The Connecticut River Paddlers Trail provides free camping near Westfield, Vermont through riverside sites accessible primarily by canoe or kayak. These primitive campsites serve as waypoints for multi-day paddling journeys along the Connecticut River, which forms the border between Vermont and New Hampshire. Summer water levels typically range from 2-4 feet near camping access points, with faster currents during spring runoff.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Connecticut River near Maine Railroad Trestle offers productive fishing spots directly from the campsite's rocky beach. "It's a nice spot to fish from," notes Sarah C., who found the beach area convenient for both watercraft loading and angling.
Riverside hiking: While primarily boat-accessible, short hiking trails connect some campsites to adjacent fields and wooded areas. However, campers should prepare for seasonal conditions. "Beware that the ticks in the field are insane! They weren't bad in the campsite but in the grass, they were epic," reports a visitor to Maine Railroad Trestle regarding the nearby cornfield.
River navigation: Paddlers must plan carefully for varying currents and river conditions, particularly when approaching Scott C. Devlin Memorial campsite. The site "sits right in the bend of the river" with "a fair amount of current sweeping around the bend," requiring secure boat handling during loading and unloading operations.
What campers like
Natural setting: The riverside camping areas provide quieter alternatives to developed campgrounds. Scott C. Devlin Memorial campsite is described as "secluded and quiet" and offers "a nice shady spot with plenty of flat space for tents" within a pine forest setting on a knoll above the river.
Simplicity: These free camping sites near Westfield maintain minimal infrastructure while providing basic necessities. The Scott C. Devlin Memorial site includes "a picnic table, fire ring and composting toilet box seat," delivering essential amenities without disrupting the natural environment.
Accessibility system: Though no formal reservations exist, the Connecticut River Paddlers Trail uses an optional registration system to prevent site overcrowding. "While reservations are not required, there is a registration page on the CT River Paddler's Trail Website that they ask folx to complete just so spots don't get overcrowded," explains one regular user.
What you should know
Safety precautions: Steep riverbank access requires careful navigation at some sites. Scott C. Devlin Memorial features "a set of wooden steps that go down into the water at a relatively steep angle," and visitors are advised to "be sure you tie your boat up while unloading as there is a fair amount of current sweeping around the bend."
Wildlife awareness: Campers should prepare for insects, particularly during warmer months. Multiple reviewers mention tick presence, with one noting they "weren't the worse I've seen, but they are definitely around" at the Scott C. Devlin Memorial site.
Local traffic: Some sites may experience unexpected nighttime visitors. At Maine Railroad Trestle, one camping group reported: "We did have an ATV almost run over us at 1:00 a.m. that scared the dickens out of us. They were clearly unaware and intoxicated, it was a scary moment."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: When dispersed camping with children near Westfield, choose sites with adequate flat terrain for multiple tents. Maine Railroad Trestle offers options at different elevations, including "a spot lower down that is nice and flat and probably better spots for tents."
Water safety: Families should bring personal flotation devices and establish clear water boundaries when camping with children along the Connecticut River, especially at sites with stronger currents around river bends.
