Find the Perfect Launchpad for Adventure at Fort Dummer State Park

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Campers enjoy the Broad Brook swimming hole at Fort Dummer - Katie Mills

If you’re looking for a budget friendly adventure hub in Southern Vermont with easy access to covered bridges, a bustling arts scene, and natural beauty, you’ll love staying at Fort Dummer State Park. It’s located just outside the town of Brattleboro, and close to other southern Vermont locations like Bennington, Wilmington, and Dover.

Fort Dummer State Park: What You Need To Know

Fort Dummer State Park overlooks the former site of Fort Dummer which was flooded when the Vernon Dam was built on the Connecticut River in 1908. Located in the Southern foothills of the Green Mountains, the landscape of this park stands out from the majority forests of Vermont with its mix of white, red, and chestnut oak as well as a variety of rare and uncommon plants throughout the park. Choose from 50 campsites for tents or RVs or the 10 lean-to shelters nestled in the woods in the park.

 There are three beautiful trails within a short stroll from the campground area. Choose the Sunrise Trail for a level and gently sloping woodland stroll with an overlook of the sunken remains of Fort Dummer midway on the trial, the Sunset Trail for a view of the western vista of the village of Algiers and the remains of the 1880’s Boyden Farm, or the Broad Brook Trail for quick (although steep) access to the pristine Broad Brook swimming hole.

 Did you know your reservation secures you access to all Vermont State Park Day use areas? Check out the scenic view from the Mountain Road at Mt. Ascutney State Park, go tubing for fly fishing on the West River at Jamaica State Park, or paddle around Adams Reservoir on the mountain plateau of Woodford State Park.

Experience the Arts, Culture, and History of Southern Vermont

Located just 10 mins from the park, the town of Brattleboro is known for its lively arts and food scene. The Brattleboro Farmer’s Market is open from 9am to 2pm every Saturday through the end of the Fort Dummer season. Artisans, farmers, and restaurants from the area have everything from maple syrup to pottery to Thai food! There are even live musicians on occasion.

Brattleboro is hub for the arts with a wide variety of live music, theatre, and circus arts performances. The town is home to the New England Center for Circus Arts, the Next Stage Arts Project, and so much more. Live artist demos, concerts, theatre performances, and more can be found on the Brattleboro Area Events page.   

 Looking to experience the unique sights of Vermont life? Check out the Vermont Country Store in Bellows Falls or check out the Covered Bridge Driving Tour of Southern Vermont (perfect for leaf peeping as we head into the cooler months). Looking for an easy drive with beautiful views? Check out the Molly Stark Byway. The byway links famous monuments, passes by the highest state park in Vermont (Woodford), historic districts, and more!  

The sweeping river valleys of southern Vermont have plenty of paddling and swimming opportunities. Swimming holes abound in and around Newfane. Getting hungry exploring? Fuel up on strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries at Dutton’s Berry Farm. If gliding across the Connecticut River is more your scene, head on over to the Vermont Canoe Touring Center to grab a canoe, kayak, or stand up paddleboard rental.

Fort Dummer is the perfect launchpad for your next exploration of Southern Vermont’s beautiful mountain, sweeping river valleys, and historic downtown centers. Can’t wait to make a reservation? Head on over to our Fort Dummer Reservation page to make your reservation 24/7 or give us a call at 1-888-409-7579 Mon-Fri 9am to 4pm to discuss the details of your next trip. 

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