Winhall Brook Camping Area

Winhall Brook consists of broad grassy meadows amidst a beautiful northern hardwood forest, providing outstanding fall colors and wildlife habitat. Visitors may catch glimpses of the region's native fauna, which include moose, white-tailed deer, black bear, bald eagles, owls, osprey, woodpeckers and a wide variety of songbirds.

Recreation: The Winhall Brook Camping Area rests among the Winhall River, and its confluence with the West River, providing substantial opportunities for fishing and river access. Hiking and biking are popular summer activities during stays within the campground, and the snowy winter months allow opportunities outside the recreation season, including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. A picnic shelter located on the North Side provides space for larger gatherings during the recreation season. The West River Trail stretches 16 miles along sections of the long-since-abandoned West River Railroad, connecting the villages of South Londonderry, Jamaica and Townshend, each with conveniences for those passing through. Hikers going south along the trail from the Winhall Brook Camping Area will pass notable waterfalls, including Angel Falls just north of Ball Mountain Lake, and Hamilton Falls, south of Ball Mountain Dam. The West River is the main tributary for Ball Mountain Lake, a flood control reservoir with hiking and scenic overlooks available year-round. Lake access is available at Ball Mountain Lake's car-top boat launch, with the shores providing additional opportunities for fishing and swimming during one's stay. Twice a year, controlled releases from Ball Mountain Dam provide ideal whitewater conditions along the West River, attracting rafting and kayaking enthusiasts from all across New England. Releases are typically scheduled for the first weekend in May and the last weekend in September.

Nearby: Angel Falls flows just south of the Winhall Brook Camping Area, accessible via the West River Trail traveling downriver towards Ball Mountain Lake. A custom stone bridge continues the West River Trail across the falls' pool for an up close view during your hike. The Green Mountain National Forest begins just 12 miles west of the Winhall Brook Camping Area, offering multiple opportunities for hiking, backpacking, biking, and scenic views. Head south on Vermont Route 100 towards Rawsonville, before turning west onto Vermont Route 30 towards Manchester, Vermont.