Mount Ascutney State Park is situated in Windsor, Vermont at an elevation of 3,144 feet, with camping available at the base of this monadnock mountain—a standalone peak not connected to any mountain range. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with fall camping season generally running from May through mid-October when temperatures average 45-75°F. Campgrounds near Windsor offer tent sites, RV accommodations, and cabin rentals with varying levels of amenities and wilderness immersion.
What to do
Hiking trails with varying difficulty levels: Mount Ascutney State Park Campground offers four different summit trails plus summit hiking paths accessible after driving the auto road. "Make sure to visit the namesake of the park (you can hike or drive up). If not for the important history of this trail (its construction inspired the Long Trail and then the Appalachian Trail and then the CDT, PCT, etc.), some of the best hikes are the other ones thanks to the relative solitude," notes a camper who visited in fall.
Swimming in natural settings: Jamaica State Park Campground provides river access with swimming opportunities. "There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools," shares one visitor. The park is located approximately 45 miles from Windsor and features natural swimming areas alongside hiking options.
Mountain biking directly from camp: Tree Farm Campground maintains trails on property and connects to nearby networks. As one family who stayed there reports: "We visited and hiked Mt Ascutney and did some fun stuff at Okemo but highlight was finding then awesome swimming hole at Buttermere falls next to Okemo."
What campers like
Natural water features: Jamaica State Park Campground receives high marks for its riverside sites. One camper explains, "We managed to get a prime leanto site right on the river. We were only there for an overnight but we will be back. In the Spring the water is released behind Ball Dam, creating a white water adventure."
Privacy between campsites: Many campgrounds in the region offer wooded sites that provide separation between neighbors. A reviewer at Tree Farm Campground appreciates that it has "Spacious, wooded sites, super clean...friendly, helpful owners and gorgeous setting!" Sites with natural buffers are valued by campers seeking quiet experiences.
Access to local attractions: The Windsor area offers various attractions within short drives of campgrounds. A visitor to Silver Lakes Park Campground mentions, "This campground feels clean, safe and well-maintained. It is a step above many other campgrounds in the area and well worth giving Dee a call!" The park's location provides access to local towns and recreational opportunities.
What you should know
Road noise impacts: Highway sounds affect some campgrounds in the area. One camper at Mount Ascutney State Park Campground notes: "Like many of the other reviews, I cannot give this a 5 star rating solely for the fact of road noise. We were in site 27 and it was a beautiful site but the road noise from interstate 91 was extremely loud."
Cell service variability: Connectivity fluctuates throughout the region, with some campgrounds having limited or no service. A camper at Jamaica State Park observed: "find something that you don't like about this park... go ahead, I'll wait. Small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world."
Seasonal limitations: Most rv parks near Windsor, Vermont close by mid-October. The Tree Farm Campground operates "May 10th to Oct 19th," while Mount Ascutney State Park Campground runs from "May 22 to October 16," making advance planning important for fall foliage visits.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Silver Lakes Park Campground offers family-friendly facilities. According to a visitor: "This is a very clean, quiet, gated campground, with easy beach access for the kids (and launching space for pontoon or bass boats). There is a playground, rentable kayaks and canoes, a basketball goal, frisbee golf, corn hole, horseshoes, yard darts etc."
Educational opportunities: Some parks feature nature programs and learning activities for children. Jamaica State Park provides educational trails, with one parent sharing: "Nice little weekend getaway. Clean bathrooms, roomy tent sites, nice staff. Fun playground and nature area for kids. Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls."
Swimming safety considerations: Natural water features require supervision. A camper at Jamaica State Park cautions: "People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls." Parents should research swimming areas before visits to ensure appropriate safety measures.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: RV travelers to Dorset RV Park should note site layout and access challenges. A camper warns: "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. I don't think campground staff is familiar with their own campground and that larger rigs are likely to have issue in this loop."
Utilities and hookup options: RV parks Windsor, Vermont and surrounding towns offer varied hookup options. At Newfound RV Park, a camper reports: "Our site was full hookup and a pull through site. We used a Passport America discount here." Research discount camping club acceptance when planning stays at area RV parks.
Seasonal RV accommodations: Many campgrounds in the region accommodate long-term stays. A visitor to Sandy Beach Campground mentions: "Small but well organized campground. TT members will find all the comforts of home. Staff is pleasant and helpful. Quiet during the weekdays, picks up over weekends but not to overbearing." Travelers' club memberships can provide additional benefits at some properties.
