Great campground at first, although us and our kids couldn't get consistent sleep. Even though…read morethere are quiet hours, they aren't enforced AT ALL. Roll the dice on if you get noisy/rude neighbors. I'm currently posting this at 1:37am and some people are still going strong in around the campground. Our particular neighbors finally cashed in around 12:30am with no respect for any quiet hours and seemingly no warnings though we definitely complained. If you want to drink and have a good time into the night, seems like this place might be awesome for you! For a young family with kids who actually sleep, be prepared for some super late bedtimes and wedding dance hits with clapping for lullabies. Kinda bummed, it's made our trip stressful each night and we won't be returning for any weekend nights again. On the plus side, I watched a great movie using the free campground WiFi to drown out the noise while I waited for my fun-loving neighbors to get tired!

We love it! (Besides the walk to the bathroom with a young kid) but my family got todo everything…read morethey wanted, swimming, fishing, paddle boating. And most of all relaxing! Everyone is super nice and it's so kid friendly!

This center served as my home base for a series of hiking adventures on and around Mount Monadnock…read morein June. I was assigned a lakefront cottage that was extremely spacious and quite comfortable. There are more modern, and more fully outfitted, condos but I enjoyed the scenic view and quite setting of my cottage. Pilgrim Pines is a venue that hosts a variety of visitors. There are summer camps, conferences and, likely, retreats but my visit was with a group of hikers and artists who stayed on property from Sunday through Friday. Meals are held in the main dining room and are served buffet-style which made it easy to enjoy what I wanted and to the leave the rest for others. Guests are expected to place dirty dishes and glassware in a bin which makes for a quick and easy clean up. There is a 2 1/2 mile loop around the lake that can be enjoyed during a leisurely walk or a more ambitious run. There are also trails and dirt roads/paths nearby for additional outdoor excursions. The water was a little too cold for my tastes but the lake seemed to be inviting and would certainly provide a smooth place to canoe. There is a small store on property with hours that vary according to need. It offered a lovely selection of toys for children, sweet treats, Christmas ornaments and other holiday decor, jewelry, original paintings and some items representative of the region. Definitely worth checking out if you can manage to be around when staff opens it up for business. Every staff member I encountered added to the overall enjoyable experience of staying here. It was always easy to strike up a conversation or ask for any assistance. A lovely chapel on property did double duty as a morning yoga studio and an evening presentation spot for guest speakers. The real highlight of the stay, particularly after an exhausting day hike, was the shower. It had great water pressure and hot water that helped to make the muscles feel much better. Due to the religious affiliations of this property alcohol is off limits. Guests are welcome to enjoy the books, games, puzzles and even the TV found in the main lodge but for me the chance to enjoy the outdoors or just curl up with a book in my little lakeside nook was all I needed!

Great getaway every year with our family!! My wife has been coming here her whole life and now our…read morekids love coming to the pines too.

Chad and his wife are amazing. They work so incredibly hard to take care of the campground and are…read morevery accommodating. You would never know this great campground is hidden away in Newport!! If I need to chill, this is where I go!!

This is a no frills campground, but I have to honestly say that we had a great stay this past…read moreweekend. Pros 1. The campground is very inexpensive, $35 a night with water and electric. 2. Beautiful sites available right on the water. Other site away from the water area available too. 3. SUPER easy check-in. 4. Not a ton of rules/regulations like most campgrounds and there didn't need to be as everyone is very respectful there, like it should be! 5. Dogs allowed as long as they are on a leash at all times. Again, not a lot of red tape, paperwork and rules to bring your dog camping which is so nice! 6. Campground and facilities are well maintained and clean. 7. Great location with lots to do nearby. 8. Wood for campfires available for $4 a bundle. Cons 1. We picked a site #56 because it was on the water and close to one of the bathroom locations listed on their map. While they were certainly close, they were actually porta pottys, not actual bathrooms with running water. Not a huge deal ,but had we know this, we probably would've picked a site closer to one of the real bathrooms with running water. 2. No central location to wash dishes other than your campsite. 3. Some of the sites along the water are very narrow and close together. We could actually hear the couple in the site next to us talking every morning when they woke up and it was not because they were loud. 4. No campground store so if you forgot something, you're going to have to venture out in the surrounding area to find what you need. There is plenty nearby, but it's always nice if you can just get it from the campground store. Your best options are site 61 if you want a nice, large site on the water (not a lot of privacy) or site 65 for a nice, large site, but very private with only one site next to you and the other side is trees. If you like camping in an open field with other campers and don't mind the lack of privacy, they have that option too. Really something for everyone. One last note, showers are 50 cents for 6 minutes. Not a pro or con in my opinion, but certainly worth mentioning so you are prepared when you get there!

We were on a family trip for the weekend and I really regret choosing this campground. When I…read moreattempted to make a reservation initially, it was impossible to reach anyone by phone. When I finally spoke with someone and made the reservation, were weren't even sent a confirmation email. The only thing received was an email with the charge to my charge and without a break down of the charges. Once we got to the park, we weren't even notified on the check out time. When we arrived, it was disappointing. You drive through a trailer park to arrive at the campground and there are no signs on the main road confirming that the trailer park you're entering will lead you to the campground. It's difficult to maneuver a trailer through the trailer park as well. When we entered the park, it was mostly seasonal. The spot we had was horrible to back into. They put up all of these lamp posts all over the place and they are added obstructions and make the tight spaces more difficult to navigate. Not to mention, our site was rated for a 40 foot trailer and there's just no way. We could barely back our trailer in while hooked up to the truck. There was little room. The site behind us had a TON OF PEOPLE AND KIDS. They were loud at night and during the day, their kids were coming into our site. They were also very disruptive. We have a baby and it was hard for him to get a nap in. We couldn't even sit outside on our porch (since we have a toy hauler) because our neighbors directly behind us had a fire that would have smoked into our trailer and we had no privacy at all. We noticed a few open sites and went to ask the older women working in the office, if we would be able to move. She said there were no open sites except a row of unoccupied atv sites near the woods. They were normal sites but reserved for the busy atv season. She said there was an up charge for those sites. After discussing it with my husband, we decided to pay the difference since they were all empty and honestly, ended up being a lot more quiet than where we were. When my husband advised that he would pay the difference, he was flat out told no. No conversation or anything. Just no. Those sites along with another site, were NEVER occupied during our stay. We weren't allowed to move despite being willing to pay for it. We were also not notified during our booking that there would be kids trick or treating all over the place. Again, we have a sleeping baby and we went camping for some peace and quiet. Later on, we took our baby for a walk and went over to a swing set on site. I wanted to swing him for a bit but there was a grown man on the swings. This whole experience was not great at all. The only positive was when I went to buy firewood. There was a young girl working inside who was maybe in her late teens or early twenties. She was extremely polite and helpful. She's the only positive I got out of this.

Very nice place. I was pleasantly surprised. Quiet and clean and appears to have a nice pool are…read moreand other things for kids. But...the spaces are the smallest I've EVER seen in my 20 years camping. The guy next to us put his grill less than 10 feet from our RV. (Of course doing that is lacking common sense). Small spaces could be a hazard.

I've stayed at Ashuelot River Campground twice and am planning a third visit later this year. As an…read moreavid hiker, my idea of camping is simple and self-sufficient: pitching a tent, boiling water to avoid giardia, cooking on a Coleman stove, and living out of a cooler. I'm not looking for an air-conditioned RV experience with all the modern comforts--I'm here for the outdoors. That's why I'm puzzled by some of the negative reviews this campground has received. Ashuelot provides a natural setting where you can create the camping experience that suits you. Yes, there are rules--but they're mainly in place to ensure that everyone has a peaceful and enjoyable time. Let's be honest: not everyone is considerate, and a few basic guidelines go a long way toward making the space enjoyable for all. This isn't luxury travel. It's camping--and it's affordable. If you're expecting concierge service or hotel-style amenities, there are plenty of expensive hotels nearby that might better fit your expectations. But if you're self-reliant, easygoing, and here to enjoy nature on its own terms, Ashuelot River Campground offers exactly what you need for a rewarding experience.

What a lovely campground. There's some thing for all types of campers. We (retired couple with 2…read morelarge dogs) stayed at a full hookup riverfront site before Memorial Day. Fairly open, but a nice spot. There are plenty of pretty spots in the woods with water and electric and a bit more privacy. They would make nice tent or smaller camper spots. That's what we'll choose when we return. Nice little walking trails for the dogs, and access the beautiful river. Friendly checkin, and helpful at the store when we needed a quick repair.

For the last three summers, my wife, kids, and I have done extended camping (I work remotely). This…read moreyear, our lease ended and we thought it was the perfect chance to camp longer while we decided whether to move out of state or stay local. We called Swanzey Lake Campground and asked about length-of-stay rules. Jill assured us there were none and even let us choose a site in person. The lake and new bathrooms made the higher price feel worth it. Everything started fine until a couple weeks in. My wife and I had a heated--but non-violent and quiet--argument and we foolishly called the police. They came, found no issue, and left. Jill and Bill were understandably upset, but after a sincere apology, Jill gave us another chance, saying if it happened again, we'd have to leave. Fair enough. Then out of nowhere, a welfare check was called on us by another camper claiming I wasn't letting my kids out of the tent. Absurd. In reality, it was a quiet Saturday--we had fans running, windows open, and WiFi going. My kids were happy and safe. It felt like someone was watching us simply for not being social. My kids were upset, my oldest was confused and scared, and I let the office know how angry I was. We had done nothing wrong. Even the officer said she didn't know why she was called and gave me her number in case I had any new concerns myself. A few days later, someone I had worked with months ago at a nonprofit (not law enforcement or anything official) called the campground asking for me because I hadn't responded to her calls. That same day, we were told to move again--and that we had one week left. Baffling. I went to the office and tried to explain, but Jill refused to hear anything. She referenced the call and said now she was on "a state agency contact list" - whatever that means - and said that was enough to end our stay. That was the moment I realized logic was no longer part of the equation. Later I spoke with Bill, who was respectful but said he had to support Jill's decision. It became clear--if you're not part of the seasonal RV crowd, you're not really welcome here. We were in a tent, not an RV, and that seemed to make all the difference. Even after we left, I was told there was yet another complaint--this time about our dog being left in the car. The car had been remote-started with AC blasting. It was still cold when we returned. But again, everything we did seemed to be reported and twisted. We were moved to a spot with zero privacy, surrounded by campers who all seemed to know each other, hung out together, dined together. Jill had told us we could stay through mid-August. Then suddenly we were told the site was "seasonal only." The inconsistency was exhausting. If you're doing actual extended camping--not just a weekend RV hangout--this is not the place. There's clear favoritism, it's very clique-like, and we were constantly scrutinized for things others were doing openly without consequence. We didn't accept the additional week and left the next day. We were treated unfairly and judged, and despite our best efforts to respect the rules and communicate, it wasn't enough. I wouldn't recommend this campground to anyone looking for more than a brief stay. We were not the problem. Your clique was, your judgment was, and Jill, you owe us an apology. But we already know we'll never get one. Do not stay here. Period.

Love this campgrounds. I was lucky enough to have an RV in a seasonal spot for two years. Fabulous…read moreowners who really care about their property as well as their guests. Swimming, kayaking and canoeing are just a few amenities you can enjoy. They also have get together's and special events. Either a family, couple or just being by yourself it's the perfect atmosphere. Highly recommend Swanzey Lake!

Excellent place for basketball court and swimming pool! Just bought my grandson a season pass for…read morehis thirteenth birthday! What he asked for!

One star because of the owner. Booked through Booking.com and pre paid. During the stay I go a…read morenotice that i was charged again by Kampfires Inn. I explained to the person working that this happened, he assured me that it happens sometimes and it would be taken care of. The owner told me that Booking didn't give her them money. So she wasn't going to refund me. Booking said she should refund me because I prepaid through the booking site. The owner told me it was my problem to figure out with booking. It never got handled after months of going back and forth with them both. Wouldn't it be her problem to figure out with booking since she uses their service to fill up rooms? I think this is such a bad business approach. And I wonder if she was even honest with me about not receiving the prepaid payment I did thru booking. Either way, I wont use booking.com or every recommend or go to Kampfires Inn again.

The best kept campsite in Vermont! Immaculate bathrooms/showers and manicured grounds. Friendly…read morestaff and great accessibility to hiking trails is excellent. I arrived early on Labor Day and they allowed me to setup my camper as the site was ready. Made for a great extra half day in the sun!)

One thing about me: I'm gonna make my annual pilgrimage to Vermont for a maple latte, maple buffalo…read morewings, and some clean air hiking. Read on for the hike, the campground, and the park. Me, husbo, and dog hit a twofer this weekend - 2 hikes, 1 day. What can I say - I was feeling inspired. Hike We did the Mount Olga trail - accurately rated moderate. It was up, up, and more up. There's no lookout after all that uphill but there is a fire tower that gives 360 degree views. Ordinarily, I like to see fire towers, but not climb them. I was determined this time, tho. Unfortch right at the turn off for the tower my hamstring started to twitch which means I have about T-5 minutes until a debilitating cramp unless I get myself together. I didn't want to chance it so we continued around the loop. I REALLY liked this trail. I found all the uphill interesting, somewhat challenging, a few good rock scrambles, too. On the way down there were a few butt sits, and a water crossing, too. I love varied terrain like this. Minimal bugs and just enough people out to not feel alone, but to also go for 20 minutes at a time without seeing anyone else. The hike starts outside the visitor center and ends just above the campgrounds. About the campground: It's beautiful, wooded yet airy. Huge sites with sturdy picnic tables and glorious fire pits. They even have lean-tos! I've a right mind to book one this week before they close for the season. Bathrooms My husband used them before the hike and said they were CLEAN CLEAN CLEAN. Now I know that well-run campgrounds always keep a pristine bathroom but this was a surprise to him. Between the bathrooms and the camp sites he was really excited about finally going camping as a family (I usually go solo). Visitors Center Charming building and wonderful staff. The man checking us in provided accurate information and was very warm and friendly. I cannot WAIT to go back here once the spring rolls around. Lovely all around. Things to Know: -parking and overflow parking at Visitor Center -$5 entry fee per adult person. Day pass also valid at other state parks during the same day -dog friendly

Stumbled upon the Somerset Reservoir while we were out one day driving around the area; a couple of…read moreour friends were headed there to take their dog for a swim, so we decided to meet them. It is VERY much off the beaten path and once you turn on Somerset Rd., it's a good 3 or 4 mile drive to get to the general parking, picnic area near the water. Oh yeah, the road isn't paved either so it's best to have a 4x4 or some sort of vehicle with tires that can handle the trek. The general parking area is a decent size, there are a few picnic tables and a port-a-potty which was surprisingly clean. The reservoir itself is huge and great for kayaking or canoeing, neither of which we did, but I did see quite a few people there enjoying themselves on the water. There is one general walking direction which takes you to several different hiking paths and there is even a cute little bridge overlooking a beautiful stream. It had rained that morning and with leaves falling, the trails were a little slippery at points, but nothing that made me feel unsafe. I'd definitely recommend wearing sneakers or hiking boots of some kind. Between the group of us, we had 3 dogs and none of them were on a leash; people really didn't seem to care and everyone was friendly. The dogs enjoyed swimming in the water and I enjoyed looking at it. I'd most definitely go back to Somerset Reservoir with a camera and a light lunch to kick back and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Camped here haha lol at the airfeild, it was just so good. FOOD WAS GREAT. Those burgers and and…read morepattys were out of this world, they were cooked good. Such a good place for my family. I have a good palette so I love good food lol

My family and I recently went camping here for the 4th of July weekend. We took a bit of a gamble…read morecoming here since there just seems to be so few reviews online, but we really enjoyed our stay and wanted to share details since it seems that those are missing...And since some things have changed. Campground Rules: Some earlier reviews had mentioned that vehicles are not allowed at the sites, and this is what is specified on the current list of campground rules. I would advise visitors to call ahead to ask, but at the time of our visit (July 2021), we were told that vehicles ARE allowed to remain at the campsites, which is extremely convenient! Due to COVID-19, however, the group sites are currently unavailable and there are some campsites that are left empty to allow for social distancing. Sanitary Facilities: the sanitary facilities listed on the website are NOT all the same! The three in the camping area are essentially outhouses (see picture attached) and are pretty messy (they have hand sanitizer and toilet paper available, but also some spiders! But I guess that's what you expect with rustic camping...On the plus side, they also hang up some air fresheners so they did smell pretty good). However, they DO have much nicer bathrooms in the day-use/picnic area, right behind the showers. These have flush toilets, toilet paper, sinks, soap, and paper towels, and are cleaned daily. Other Amenities: there are trash cans dispersed across the camping area, which are easily accessible but also protected against wildlife. We also did see white trucks from First Light (the company running the campground) once or twice patrolling the area, so it seems that it is pretty safe. They did not bother us or interact with us at all, but it was nice to know that they were around. Additionally, we did not use the showers but they are coin-operated so do bring coins if you plan on showering! Checking In/Out: we visited the Campground Office and Paddlesport Center to check in and out of our campsite. The staff there were very friendly and processed us very quickly. We also rented kayaks for the morning, and they were super accommodating and it was a great experience! Fees: this may change, but at the time of our stay, we paid $22/day for our campsite and I believe $25 for 2 hours for a tandem kayak (the price is the same for solo kayaks and also stand-up paddleboards). We got a bundle of wood at the Campground Office and Paddle Sport Center for less than $6, and it lasted a pretty long time. Camp Sites: the campsite itself was very spacious. We had Site 27, which was pretty isolated due to all of the surrounding campsites being closed due to COVID-19 distancing. There is a gate that you have to open to get your car in and out, but it's fairly easy to open (not sure if you're allowed to just leave it open?). Pro-tip for anyone who stays at Site 27: it can be hard to find...But go into the loop for parking and you'll find a separate gate with a post nearby labeled "27". Go through there and Site 27 is on the left! We wandered around a little bit initially...We did not have tent plots on our site, which was just as well since our tent would not have fit anyway. But we did see many other sites with it, and they looked pretty nice! Trails: the nature trail was well-marked and very pretty. Quick warning though: there are some steep areas that were hard to navigate. They have steps constructed for most areas, but do be careful with older individuals or younger children. The Dinosaur Track Quarry was unlabeled unfortunately, but should be relatively easy to find. It's toward the beginning of the trailhead at the parking area and is distinguished by a cliff face and a lot of small, thin stones (possibly shale stones?). There are also a couple of overlooks available throughout the trail, like in one of the images attached, seen at sunset. These were really nice! Kayaking: As mentioned previously, we did rent out kayaks from the Campground Office and Paddlesport Center! There's a lot of space to paddle around (we only did 2 hours, but there was a lot more to explore) and the staff helped with bringing everything (boats, paddles, and life jackets) to and from the launching area. We surprisingly saw a lot of swans and their cygnets around (I want to say maybe 10 families???), as well as ducks and geese. Overall Experience: We really enjoyed our stay overall at Barton Cove. Whenever we had questions, the staff over the phone were incredibly friendly and accommodating. Our stay was peaceful and quiet (with the exception of fireworks in nearby places - not in the campground itself - due to the 4th of July). Our only complaint is that we wish that the outhouses were a little bit better maintained. There were some spiderwebs in places you really don't want them to be...I also wish that the website could be updated to reflect some of the rule changes and include more information!

This campground has beautiful sights and sounds of the Connecticut River. I would go again!read more