Camping in the southern Vermont mountains offers year-round opportunities within the Green Mountain National Forest. Wilmington sits at an elevation of 1,565 feet, creating distinct seasonal temperature variations with summer days averaging 75°F and winter nights frequently dropping below 10°F. Numerous campgrounds in the area remain open from May through mid-October, with primitive camping options available outside this timeframe.
What to do
Hiking at Jamaica State Park: Located 15 miles from Wilmington, this park features river trails with access to Hamilton Falls. "There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools. The area is beautiful and good food across the street!" notes Jackie G., who visited Jamaica State Park Campground.
Swimming at Somerset Reservoir: This large body of water provides excellent paddling and swimming opportunities. One visitor shared, "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities." Another camper mentioned enjoying "the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping" at Somerset Airfield.
Winter activities: While most campgrounds close after Columbus Day, the region transforms into a winter recreation area. Snowmobile trails connect throughout the area, and nearby Mount Snow offers downhill skiing. "In the spring the water is released behind Ball Dam, creating a white water adventure," notes one camper about seasonal water activities.
What campers like
Peaceful forest settings: The wooded campsites throughout the region provide natural privacy. A visitor at Woodford State Park Campground shared, "The sites are nice and private. The views on some of the sites to the lake are beautiful. The grounds and facilities are well kept."
Local food access: Many campgrounds are near small towns with local food options. "This campground is clean and has many extras... We were here when they had a food festival with live music... it was fun," writes Mike B. about Kampfires in Dummerston.
Limited cell connectivity: Unlike the existing description that notes limited cell service as a challenge, many campers appreciate the digital detox. One reviewer mentioned Brittany B. captured this sentiment at Jamaica State Park: "No cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Southern Vermont weather can change rapidly, even in summer. A camper at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park reported: "We endured snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8 inches of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday, and our main Roadhouse down from the weight of the snow." Always check seasonal forecasts.
Campground busyness varies: While weekdays tend to be quiet, weekends bring more activity. "Very quiet during the week. However, when Friday came and the weekend campers arrived, it got loud and rowdy," notes Nicole P.
Wildlife encounters: The region has active wildlife including bears. At Tree Farm Campground in Springfield, one camper mentioned the campground has "well-maintained grounds and some cute activities for the younger kids. Even blueberry picking on site," though this attracts wildlife too. Another camper at Kampfires noted, "A pile of fresh bear scat was right there! They did say there was wildlife in the area!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with kids, look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. A reviewer at Molly Stark noted, "Nice playground and nature area for kids. Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls."
Safety considerations: Several natural features require caution with children. Chris D. warns at Molly Stark State Park Campground: "People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls."
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds organize regular family activities. "There is a cozy lounge room to hang out in with games, books, crayons, and puzzles; a dog park with toys included; and fabulous hiking trails with lots to see, including a pond, waterfalls, and streams," notes Lee A. about Tree Farm Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for RV camping near Wilmington, Vermont: When making reservations, inquire specifically about site leveling. Katie E. from Dorset RV Park advises: "Our site was level but some definitely were not. 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."
Water access planning: For RVs without full hookups, plan water refilling stops. One visitor at Dorset RV Park mentioned, "Our site was level with a gravel base. FHU at each site made hook up easy," highlighting the importance of confirming utility placement before arrival.
Seasonal RV considerations: Many RV sites close earlier than tent sites in the fall. "We 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," notes John L. about operating patterns at Woodmore Family Campground.
