Southeastern Vermont offers varied terrain with elevations ranging from 200-400 feet in Westminster to nearby peaks reaching over 3,000 feet. Fall camping season typically runs from September through mid-October with average nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s. Campgrounds near Westminster frequently offer river access sites, with the Connecticut River and its tributaries providing natural boundaries between Vermont and New Hampshire.
What to do
Hiking trails to waterfalls: Jamaica State Park Campground features moderate hiking options including a trail to Hamilton Falls. "Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls," notes one visitor, while another explains, "We hiked the west river trail (which leads right out of the campground) to Hamilton falls which is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail."
Swimming quarries: Several campgrounds offer swimming options beyond the typical pool. One camper at Dorset RV Park mentioned, "Great location near a fantastic quarry, country store, and Manchester shopping. The camp grounds were family friendly and quiet. They even had rabbits and chickens for the kids to enjoy."
Rail trail biking: Accessible paths for cyclists exist throughout the region. A visitor to Crow's Nest Campground shared, "Close to the Sugar River Rail trail for biking. Definitely not a wilderness experience, but pleasant." The converted rail beds provide relatively flat terrain suitable for casual cycling.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance receives frequent praise from campers in the Westminster region. One reviewer at Tree Farm Campground appreciated that "The campground, pool, playground and bathrooms were very clean. The wifi is pretty darn good. There's a cozy lounge room to hang out in with games, books, crayons, and puzzles."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local fauna. "I had to call the Post Office to be rudely informed that since the gas company and the RV park are owned by the same people that the owner wants all RV park mail to go to the gas company," noted a camper at Dorset RV Park, while also sharing a surprising wildlife encounter: "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!"
Wooded privacy: Many campsites in the region feature natural screening. A visitor to Spacious Skies Seven Maples described, "We have a 25 foot trailer and stayed in the Grove area. Our site 19 was spacious and wooded. We loved being next to the large field and basketball court where we watched the kids play without having to worry where they disappeared to."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds near Westminster close before winter. "Owners are exceptionally helpful and work hard to keep the site functioning and clean," notes a visitor to Woodmore Family Campground, explaining, "Stayed for over a week off season, mid-September. Very quiet during the week, weekend is Party Time when the gang pulls in on Friday Night."
Payment systems: Be prepared with cash or coins for various services. At Monadnock State Park, "The showers take coins but the facilities are some of the best I've seen while camping on State Park grounds." Similarly, laundry facilities and other amenities often require quarters.
Cell coverage: Limited connectivity exists throughout the region. A Jamaica State Park visitor shared, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several rv parks near Westminster, Vermont offer water recreation for kids. At Sandy Beach Campground, "We enjoyed our stay. The first site we got was way too small for our tent and they accommodated us and gave us a choice of two others to pick from. Playground is on the beach."
Playground access: Many campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. One camper at Jamaica State Park notes, "For us, they also had a playground to play at, and a boat dock to kayak. The bugs were not fun in the summer. At night, we all had a great sleeping night with no crazy neighbors or dogs."
Kid-friendly terrain: Look for campgrounds with gentle trails suitable for young hikers. "Nice little weekend getaway. Clean bathrooms, roomy tent sites, nice staff. Fun playground and nature area for kids," shared a visitor at Jamaica State Park, highlighting amenities that keep children engaged.
Tips from RVers
Tight turns: Several rv parks in Westminster, Vermont region require careful navigation. At Dorset RV Park, a camper warned, "Larger rigs might want to avoid loop 6-14, especially for sites 8-12. Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver."
Site leveling: Research campsite conditions before arrival. A visitor to Dorset RV Park noted, "Our site was level but some definitely were not. We got twenty or so television channels with the cable hookup. The hookups were all well-placed and we didn't have any issues with the electric."
Seasonal crowds: Expect busier weekends during peak months. At Woodmore Family Campground, a visitor observed, "Sites are a little closer than I usually find. Neighbors are very considerate on site privacy," indicating that even during busy periods, camper etiquette helps maintain a pleasant atmosphere.
