Glamping options in Windsor, Vermont area span from upscale safari tents to rustic cabins across diverse terrain. The region sits within the Connecticut River Valley at elevations between 300-1,500 feet, creating varied camping microclimates from riverside lowlands to higher wooded settings. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day with overnight lows sometimes dropping to 50°F even during July.
What to do
Swimming and river activities: Campers at Quechee State Park Campground can access a trail from the campground leading to the gorge where "you can cool off in the shallow water," according to Jen B. The park connects to the Ottauquechee River with multiple access points.
Rail trail access: Ashuelot River Campground provides direct access to the Ashuelot Rail Trail. "You can pick up the Ashuelot Rail Trail at the campground. They have canoes and kayaks on site, plus a shuttle service for water sports or biking," notes Carry M., making it convenient for cycling enthusiasts.
Appalachian Trail hiking: Gifford Woods State Park Campground offers direct access to the famous Appalachian Trail. One visitor mentioned, "The AT runs directly through this park. While on a 4 state section hike I traveled by foot through this park." Another camper recommended the "trail to Deer Leep, around Kent Pond, or to Thundering Falls right from the campground."
Local exploration: Quechee-Pine Valley KOA serves as a central location for area attractions. "Great place to explore Vermont, hundreds of things to do and see in the area," says Larry B. The campground provides easy access to covered bridges, hiking trails, and local villages.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high with visitors to the Windsor area. At Quechee State Park, Jan B. notes, "The bathroom is very clean. They offer showers that cost you a few quarters. There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in an RV."
Privacy between sites: Caton Place Campground receives praise for its well-maintained grounds. "Very clean and well manicured Camping Area, clean updated restrooms. Friendly campers and great view!" says William, highlighting the campground's attention to detail.
Fishing opportunities: Emerald Lake State Park offers fishing in its namesake lake. Christina S. describes it as "Beautiful campground in south central Vermont. On a lovely emerald green small lake with nice beach. Good for fishing and kayaking."
Evening quiet: Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours, with Caton Place earning positive reviews. "Very well manicured Camping Area, clean updated restrooms. Friendly campers and great view!" comments William, indicating the peaceful atmosphere campers can expect.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Emerald Lake State Park Campground operates from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. "The campground is super busy on summer weekends, but if you want solitude, hike some of the beautiful trails in the park," advises Tara S.
Shower facilities: Many state parks charge for showers. At Quechee State Park, "They offer showers that cost you a few quarters," mentions Jan B. Similarly, Cynthia K. notes at Emerald Lake, "Don't forget to bring quarters for the shower."
Road noise: Several campgrounds experience some traffic noise. At Quechee State Park, one camper mentions, "The best part was waking up early to explore the gorge without the crowds. Camping was fairly quiet, except for the noise from the road, which is very close to the park."
Site selection: Research site locations carefully. At Emerald Lake, Ming R. advises, "Larchmont is our favorite camp site. It is much larger than most sites, a short walk to the showers and a bit tucked away for privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Crow's Nest Campground offers dedicated children's activities. "There's nice little swimming area on the river for kids," notes Michele S., making it suitable for families with younger children.
Playground access: Many area campgrounds feature playgrounds. At Quechee State Park, Jen B. mentions, "Clean and quiet, good for kids and pets are welcome. 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)."
Educational opportunities: Consider campgrounds near nature centers. According to the Gifford Woods reviews, rangers sometimes offer educational programming: "The ranger gave me an ice cream, pointed me to the showers and then chatted with me for an hour about my hike so far."
Site selection for families: When glamping in Windsor, Vermont with children, choose level sites. At Emerald Lake, Ming R. cautions, "many of them are perched on a steep ledge, making them a bit sketchy for families with kids. If you have little ones, check out the map before you reserve a site and find one on the opposite side of the ledge."
Tips from RVers
Dumping stations: For RV glamping in the Windsor region, note that not all campgrounds offer full hookups. Jan B. points out at Quechee State Park, "There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in an RV. They also have several lean tos that you can rent."
Site leveling: Ashuelot River Campground receives positive reviews from RVers for level sites. "We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was level and easy to get into and park," reports Rae-Ann W.
Route planning: Some campgrounds have access restrictions. At Ashuelot River, "Highly suggest reading the directions on the campgrounds website about the covered bridge you're not allowed to cross- we discovered this the hard way," warns Mallory P.
Campsite types: RV campers should research site types carefully. At Quechee State Park, Chris A. advises, "The sites are nicely spaced and seem to accommodate big rigs rather well. We have seen all shapes and sizes come and go, as well as tent campers, and they offer lean to's as well."
