Within Wilgus State Park, this compact campground sits along the Connecticut River with fewer than 25 sites spread across a quiet riverside setting. The state-managed facility operates from May through Columbus Day weekend, making it Vermont's first state park to open each spring. Sites range from traditional tent spots to lean-tos and four camping cabins, with most offering river views through the foliage that lines the bank.
The Connecticut River provides the main draw here, moving slowly enough for upstream paddling and supporting a boat launch for drift boats. Kayak and canoe rentals are available on-site, while Great River Outfitters offers a shuttle service from Windsor that lets campers paddle back to the park. Tim K. notes the campground has "great access to the Connecticut River" along with hiking trails that start directly from the sites. A short trail runs between the campsites and water, while another crosses the road but climbs steeply.
The campground maintains one central restroom facility, which can mean longer walks from sites at either end. Site 16 sits at the far end and offers the most privacy according to regular visitors. Road noise from Route 5 carries during the day but typically quiets in the evening. The long-time ranger provides fishing advice for those targeting the river. For campers wanting mountain hiking, Mount Ascutney State Park Campground lies just a few miles away with more challenging trails.
Description
The land of Wilgus State Park was given to the state of Vermont in 1933 by Colonel and Mrs. William Wilgus for the creation of Wilgus State Park.
The original park, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, consisted of a picnic area with large flue-type stone fireplaces and picnic tables, and the ranger's quarters.
The campground was developed and expanded between 1960 and the present time. Wilgus State Park is a very popular park for canoes and kayaks, since it is located on the Connecticut River.
This park provides day use access to the Connecticut River and the Pinnacle Trail hike provides a scenic vista of the Connecticut River Valley.
Facilities / Amenities There are 4 cabins, 15 tent/trailer sites and 6 lean-to sites which overlook the Connecticut River. There are two restrooms with flush toilets, hot and cold running water and coin-operated hot showers. There is a picnic area and 3 lean-tos in the Group area. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at the contact station as well as a WiFi connection. A trailer sanitary station is located near the ranger's quarters. There is also a small picnic shelter for campers.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsWilgus State Park Campground is located in Vermont near Ascutney
Directions
From I-91 (Exit #8): Go 1.5 miles south on US 5.
Address
3985 Route 5
Springfield, VT 05156
Coordinates
43.39100021 N
72.408 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 6/10/26- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 6/10/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 6/10/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 6/10/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
Drive Time
- 1 hr 16 min from Amherst Center, MA
- 1 hr 22 min from Manchester, NH
- 1 hr 48 min from Glens Falls, NY
- 1 hr 57 min from Pittsfield, MA
