Camp Kelly Campground

For those who call Vermont home, the call of the wild is never far away, but finding a spot that truly feels "off the beaten path" can be a challenge. Camp Kelly Campground, nestled in the rugged landscape of Woodford, Vermont, serves as a quintessential destination for campers who prioritize solitude and a rustic atmosphere. Located in Southwestern Vermont, this campground is a favorite for locals and travelers alike who are looking to trade the amenities of larger, commercial parks for the peace of the Green Mountain National Forest. It is a place where the air is crisp, the forest is dense, and the sounds of the modern world are replaced by the rustle of birch leaves and the occasional call of local wildlife.

Camp Kelly is often described as a remote gem, appealing specifically to those who are self-sufficient and appreciate a more traditional camping experience. In the state of Vermont, where outdoor recreation is a way of life, Camp Kelly stands out for its unpretentious and quiet character. It provides a unique vantage point into the high-elevation spruce and fir forests that define this region. Whether you are stopping over on a long journey through the Green Mountains or looking for a dedicated base camp to explore the George D. Aiken Wilderness, this campground offers a authentic Vermont experience that stays true to the state's "brave the elements" spirit.

The location of Camp Kelly Campground at 1380 George D Aiken Wilde Rd, Woodford, VT 05201, places it in one of the highest elevation areas of Vermont. Woodford is known for its mountain plateau setting, and the drive to the campground is part of the adventure. The site is situated along the access roads leading into the George D. Aiken Wilderness, providing unparalleled proximity to some of the most untouched land in the region. While the location feels remarkably secluded, it remains accessible for those coming from Bennington or Wilmington, making it a viable weekend retreat for residents of Southern Vermont.

• Situated near Route 9 (the Molly Stark Byway), offering a scenic route from either Bennington or Brattleboro.
• Direct access to the George D. Aiken Wilderness area for bushwhacking and navigation adventures.
• Proximity to Adams Reservoir and Woodford State Park for those seeking water-based recreation.
• Located on high-elevation terrain, which often results in cooler temperatures—a welcome relief during Vermont's humid summer months.
• On-site parking is available, though the sites are better suited for smaller rigs, vans, or traditional tent campers due to the rugged nature of the access road.

Camp Kelly Campground focuses on the essentials, providing a "leave no trace" style of service that appeals to experienced outdoorsmen and women. The services here are minimal by design, ensuring that the natural landscape remains the primary focus of your stay. While you won't find luxury clubhouses or swimming pools, the campground provides the basic infrastructure needed to support a safe and organized outdoor stay in the Vermont wilderness.

• Basic restroom facilities are available on-site for resident use.
• Dedicated campsites equipped with fire rings for traditional campfire cooking and evening gatherings.
• On-site parking areas integrated into the campsite layouts.
• Periodic check-ins by Forest Service Rangers to ensure safety and compliance with wilderness regulations.
• Spacious site layouts that provide a high degree of privacy between neighboring campers.
• Access to the natural resources of the surrounding National Forest, including firewood gathering (subject to local regulations).

The highlights of Camp Kelly are centered on its "back-to-basics" philosophy and its incredible natural surroundings. For many visitors, the highlight is the sheer space provided; unlike many state-run parks where sites are tightly packed, Camp Kelly offers a sense of isolation that is hard to find elsewhere. It is also an excellent spot for those with pets and children who enjoy exploring the woods in a less structured environment. The proximity to the wilderness area means that the opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography are exceptional.

• Exceptional privacy with sites spaced significantly far apart.
• High-elevation environment that offers a unique ecosystem of spruce, fir, and birch trees.
• Excellent for children who enjoy natural exploration and "unplugged" play.
• A pet-friendly atmosphere where dogs can enjoy the sights and smells of the deep forest.
• Proximity to the Green Mountain National Forest's extensive trail network.
• Remote location makes it an ideal spot for stargazing, free from the light pollution of Vermont's larger towns.

To plan your visit to Camp Kelly, it is important to remember that this is a rustic environment. While the campground is welcoming, it does not have the administrative staff of a large resort. For inquiries regarding current conditions, especially during the spring "mud season" or the winter months, contacting the regional forest management or utilizing the provided address for navigation is the best approach.

• Address: 1380 George D Aiken Wilde Rd, Woodford, VT 05201, USA
• Accessibility: Best suited for tents, camper vans, and small trailers.
• Note: Be prepared for limited cell service, which is common in this mountainous region.

Camp Kelly Campground is worth choosing if you are the type of camper who values silence over silver service. In Vermont, where the "tourist" version of camping is often crowded and loud, Camp Kelly remains a sanctuary for the quiet traveler. It is particularly worth choosing if you are an off-road enthusiast or have a specialized camping rig, as the terrain can be a fun challenge for those with the right experience. The ability to run a small generator without disturbing a neighbor fifty feet away is a luxury that many modern campers will appreciate.

Furthermore, its position near the George D. Aiken Wilderness makes it a strategic choice for hikers and anglers. You can spend your day fishing for brook trout in remote beaver ponds and return to a campsite that feels like an extension of the wilderness itself. For Vermont residents, it represents the heart of what local camping should be: a chance to disconnect from the digital world, handle your own gear, and fall asleep to the sounds of the forest. If you are looking for a place where you can truly "disappear" for a few days into the beauty of Southwestern Vermont, Camp Kelly is an excellent and factual choice for your next adventure.