Camping options near Windsor, Vermont include a diverse mix of state parks, private facilities, and riverside locations across the Connecticut River Valley. Campgrounds in this region generally sit at elevations between 400-1500 feet, with seasonal operations from early May through mid-October. Winter conditions typically arrive by late October with nighttime temperatures regularly dropping below freezing, making most facilities unavailable until spring.
What to do
Hiking at Mount Ascutney: The 3.7-mile auto road provides access to spectacular summit views. "This is a beautiful state park at the base of Mt ascutney. There is a 3.7 mile road that is extremely steep but paved, and goes to the summit of the mountain. Less than 1 mile hike from there to the observation tower. Great views," notes a visitor to Mount Ascutney State Park Campground.
Water activities on Connecticut River: Kayak or canoe directly from riverside campgrounds. "We loved walking the trail behind the campsites along the river to the beautiful vista views with a group with young kids, rented kayaks and fished from the boat launch," shares a camper at Wilgus State Park Campground.
Explore the Quechee Gorge: Vermont's deepest gorge offers trails and swimming spots. "It's a short hike down to Quechee Gorge, where you can cool off in the shallow water," explains a camper at Quechee State Park Campground.
Mountain biking opportunities: Several trails cater to different skill levels. "The state park maintains its own mountain biking trail loop, which accessible directly from the campground. It is a 3 mile beginner friendly loop, with some nice rollers and moderate terrain," shares a visitor about Mount Ascutney State Park.
What campers like
Ranger-led activities: Educational programs add value for all ages. "Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee)," reports a visitor to Quechee State Park Campground.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots. "The campground is very wooded and dark, so without this map it would have been even more difficult to find our site! Due to the spacing between sites, and all the trees, it was quiet and peaceful," notes a camper at Mount Ascutney State Park.
Swimming opportunities: Local swimming holes complement river access. "There is a great local pond for swimming that had dive docks, diving boards and lifeguards on duty that was less than 10 minutes away," mentions a visitor to Wilgus State Park.
Access to local attractions: Breweries, historic sites, and small towns provide off-site activities. "The campground is close to Quechee village and Woodstock so there are plenty of other activities, shopping, and dining options near by," notes a camper at Quechee State Park.
What you should know
Road noise affects some sites: Interstate proximity impacts certain campgrounds. "There is the road nearby is noisy. Because of its location, you can hear both the local highway and I91. If being in the quiet wilderness is important to you, than this campground might not work out," cautions a visitor to Mount Ascutney State Park Campground.
Seasonal weather variations: Spring camping brings specific challenges. "Wilgus State Park is the first Vermont state park to open each spring, well before Memorial Day each year. While it's still pretty cold for camping in Vermont in early May, you can get a jump start on the season by renting one of the four camping cabins," advises a camper.
Reservation requirements: Book early for peak periods. "The campground couldn't have been more than a third full, but I bet it would still be quiet if it were more populated. I really enjoyed my stay at Mt. Ascutney State Park Campground, and would love to return!" shares a visitor.
Site selection matters: Research specific site numbers for best experiences. "There are sites for tents, as well as cabins and lean to's this place was beautiful with such a relaxing and humbling environment," notes a camper at Wilgus State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule diverse experiences for different ages. "Our site was situated under large pine and hemlock trees, with some small deciduous trees mixed in. This kept the site shady, but rays of sunshine did break through at times. Outside of the bathroom there was a little library book case with books for campers to borrow. Such a fun idea!" shares a visitor to Mount Ascutney State Park.
Choose sites near amenities: Bathroom proximity matters with children. "Clean and quiet, good for kids and pets are welcome. There are 2 bathrooms with coin operated showers. There are sites for campers, tents, and a handful of lean tos," notes a Quechee State Park visitor.
Consider campground-organized events: Scheduled activities enhance the experience. "They have scheduled events that occur including family and adult only fire truck rides around the campground. There are bonfires, shuffle board and corn hole tournaments and so many options for entertainment," explains a visitor to Crown Point Camping Area.
Lean-to options: Weather protection helps with family comfort. "There is a nice secluded site off the road into the park. Site #2 on the left is a nice open space with a private outhouse and great views of Killington. Our site was a lean to, well constructed and in great shape," shares a camper at Coolidge State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Verify your rig will fit comfortably. "Camped here Labor Day Weekend in our 40 ft 5th wheel. We had a pull thru site. Easy to drive into the campground and into the site. We had no issues at all," notes a visitor to Caton Place Campground.
Hookup availability: State parks typically lack electric connections. "The park is a large park that is terraced since it is in a pretty hilly area. There is the range of sites from pull-thrus, pull-ins and back-in sites and can accommodate RVs of any size. Some sites are full hookup while others are not and that is reflected in the cost," explains a camper at Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entry points. "The campground has two distinct loops. We stayed in the loop to the left of the entrance in one of the lean tos. Our campsite was a prime site. It was very large, and quite private," shares a Mount Ascutney State Park visitor.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds close by mid-October. "This is a great pull through site. Whole facility was clean and well maintained. Staff was friendly and very helpful," notes a Quechee-Pine Valley KOA camper.
