Wilgus State Park Campground, near Springfield, Vermont, is a cozy retreat that offers a peaceful atmosphere along the Connecticut River. With a mix of tent sites, lean-tos, and cabins, it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy nature without the hustle and bustle.

The campground is known for its clean facilities and friendly staff, making it easy to feel at home. Visitors have highlighted the beautiful views of the river and the opportunity for kayaking and canoeing right from the campground. As one camper noted, “The setting was beautiful and peaceful,” which perfectly captures the vibe here.

For those who enjoy hiking, there’s a short trail nearby, though it’s a bit steep for little ones. If fishing is your thing, you’ll find plenty of spots to cast a line, and the ranger is always ready to share tips. Plus, you’re just a stone's throw from attractions like Mt. Ascutney State Park and local breweries, making it easy to fill your days with adventure. 

Whether you’re stopping for a night or planning a longer stay, Wilgus State Park Campground offers a charming escape into the great outdoors.

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.

Wilgus State Park Campground

Ascutney, VT is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Ascutney. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Ascutney

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We have been to Wilgus twice in the last month. Just a few miles from Brattleboro this campsite is perfect for those who love to fish, kayak or canoe. Set on the banks of CT River Wilgus has tent sites, lean to's and 4 newly built cabins. There is also a boat launch for drift boats as well. Quiet campsite with hiking trails right from the campground. Bathrooms and showers were clean which is a theme in VT, they take great care of their parks. The cabin is great as it has a set of bunk beds and futon. Great for starting out with your kids. 

Wilgus on CT River

This place was such a fun place to go camping! We brought a drift boat and fishing gear and  had a blast! There was sites for tents, as well as cabins and lean to's this place was beautiful with such a relaxing and humbling environment 

Awesome!!

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. I'll admit that I haven't stayed in one of the Wilgus cabins, but they are pretty much the same all over Vermont - nothing fancy - just four solid walls, bunk beds, and a small table.

Usually when we stay at Wilgus State Park, we rent a lean-to or stay in site #16, which is the very last tent site, and the most private. All sites have a great view of the river, but I won't go so far as to call them waterfront as there is a bank covered with lush foliage between the sites and the water. There is also a short trail that runs between the campsites and the water - a great place to watch the sunrise!

The best part about camping here is getting out on the water. You can rent kayaks and canoes, and the river moves slowly enough to paddle up stream. There is also a shuttle service run by Great River Outfitters upstream in Windsor. If you make reservations, the come to the park (I think on Wednesdays and Fridays), and they will pick you up in the morning, drive you up river to Windsor, outfit you with a canoe or kayak, and let you paddle back to the park. Later in the evening they will come back and pick up the boats. If you choose this option, be sure to stop at Artisan Park, right on the river and have lunch at Harpoon Brewery.

The campground is really small (under 25 sites) and super quiet. Restrooms are clean. There is a short hiking trail, which is just okay - no views or anything. The ranger has been there for years and is an expert fisherman. He's got lots of tips if you ask. For good hiking, be sure to check out Mt. Ascutney, which is just a few miles away.

All About the Connecticut River

Absolutely loved this campground. The setting was beautiful and peaceful. The staff were very helpful during our stay there on May 4-6, where we were under a tornado warning. We visited this campground as part of a Camporee with the Pathfinders - it's a Christian Scouting organization.

Beautiful

This is a small park, but it's a good spot to stay to explore the area (nearby Mt. Ascutney State Park, Harpoon Brewery, the American Precision Museum, etc.).

Kayaking on the river is the big draw, which is a great place to be on a hot day.

The one hike across the road is steep so it would not be suitable for small children, but walking around the campground is very pleasant.

The grounds and facilities are immaculate.

Small, Quiet, Clean

Nice group camping area on Connecticut River with tent and lean to options. Ranger Eric and staff were awesome. 

My favorite 

A tad close to Rte 5, but it quiets down in the evening.  Sites are also a bit small but well spaced from others; we had not problem with our 20' trailer.  View of river is pretty nice.

Small and peaceful

Was on my way up to Maine and decided to stop for the evening along the way. This was a good little spot for exactly that: not much going on, but perfect for a good night’s sleep. Only downside is I had to book two nights because of the seasonal policy (requires two nights reservation during summer) but I mentioned to the camp host that I was only there for the night and he very kindly supplied me with two bundles of firewood to make up for it. Spots aren’t very big but big enough to squeeze in two tents. 

Photos of Wilgus State Park Campground

Real photos from real campers