Willoughby Rescue

- 1098 Wild Hill Rd, Fairlee, VT 05045

Introduction / Overview

Willoughby Rescue is not your typical Vermont campground; it is a unique destination that beautifully blends an immersive outdoor experience with a deeply meaningful mission. Located on 107 acres of scenic forest and farmland in Fairlee, VT, Willoughby Rescue is first and foremost a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing care, comfort, and compassion to abandoned, neglected, abused, and orphaned farm animals, including sheep, alpacas, donkeys, potbellied pigs, and rabbits. The camping operation is fully integrated into the rescue’s mission, providing a primary source of funding for the animals' care and welfare.

For Vermonters and those in the Upper Valley region, this destination offers an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from the frantic pace of modern life and reconnect with nature and gentle farm animals. The unique accommodation options—ranging from private tent decks to an innovative greenhouse glamping experience—cater to various comfort levels, but all share the common thread of peace, seclusion, and the quiet satisfaction of supporting a worthy local cause. Your stay here is more than a vacation; it is a direct contribution to the stewardship of New England's most vulnerable farm residents.

Location and Accessibility

Willoughby Rescue is thoughtfully situated at 1098 Wild Hill Rd in Fairlee, VT 05045. Fairlee itself is a charming town nestled in the Upper Valley region of Vermont, close to the Connecticut River and the New Hampshire border. This positioning makes the rescue highly accessible from both the central and eastern parts of Vermont, as well as the nearby Hanover/Lebanon area in New Hampshire.

While the physical address is straightforward, potential visitors should be aware that the property embraces a truly rural Vermont setting, which contributes to its quiet, secluded atmosphere. Local users familiar with the region understand that navigating back roads is often part of the adventure. The management strongly advises campers to download necessary maps or directions—a suggestion highlighted in customer reviews—before leaving an area with reliable cell service, as connectivity can be limited on the final approach to Wild Hill Road. This slight isolation is, however, a key feature, guaranteeing the 'disconnecting from the outside world' experience that so many seek in a Vermont getaway. The location offers excellent proximity to other local attractions, including Lake Fairlee and the beauty of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Services Offered

The camping experience at Willoughby Rescue focuses on providing rustic comfort and convenience while ensuring all profits go directly to the animal sanctuary. Services are designed to enhance the stay and the connection to the mission.

• Diverse Accommodations: Guests can choose from various unique options, including sturdy Tent Deck Sites (like the Big Sky site with great views), secluded Hike-in Tent Sites for a more adventurous experience, and a unique, luxurious Greenhouse Glamping option made from recycled windows.
• RV Site with Hook-ups: For those traveling with a camper, there is a dedicated RV site that includes a 30-amp electric hook-up and Wi-Fi access.
• Essential Amenities: Sites are generally equipped with a park grill, a picnic table, and a private fire ring, while central sites may share a community fire ring to foster camaraderie among guests.
• Community Facilities: The grounds feature an open-concept outhouse, often described by guests as surprisingly pleasant and unique, as well as multiple natural ponds available for swimming and cooling off during warmer months.
• Gear Rental: To simplify the packing list for locals and travelers alike, the rescue offers a variety of camping gear for rent, including tents, propane stoves, cast iron grill baskets, tarps, water containers, and even portable power stations and kerosene heaters.
• Detailed Orientation Guide: Upon registration, all guests receive a comprehensive 45+ page Orientation Guide that includes directions, local resources, suggested nearby hikes, and information on local attractions not found on general search engines.

Features / Highlights

The defining characteristics of Willoughby Rescue elevate it far beyond a standard Vermont campground, creating a memorable, meaningful retreat.

• Farm Animal Interaction: The ultimate highlight is the close-up, authentic interaction with the rescued farm animals—sheep, alpacas, donkeys, and pigs—some of whom are free-roaming and may wander past your campsite, offering a truly unique, friendly welcome.
• Mission-Driven Stay: All proceeds from camping fees and rentals go directly to the non-profit organization to support the care, feeding, and medical needs of the rescued animals, providing guests with a purposeful and philanthropic vacation.
• Unique Greenhouse Glamping: The functional, glass-enclosed greenhouse offers a one-of-a-kind 'glamping' experience, perfect for those who want to be outdoors without completely roughing it, providing shelter, luxury, and a magical atmosphere.
• Stunning Views and Seclusion: The 107-acre property includes hiking trails leading to gorgeous mountain overlooks and remote tent sites that provide a truly peaceful and private experience under an unpolluted night sky.
• Community Involvement Opportunities: Beyond camping, guests can engage with the farm's mission through volunteer weekends or by simply supporting the rescue during their stay, fostering a sense of community and connection to the cause.

Contact Information

To inquire about site availability, booking a stay, learning more about the animal rescue's mission, or to arrange a surrender or adoption, please use the contact details below.

Address: 1098 Wild Hill Rd, Fairlee, VT 05045, USA

Phone: (802) 727-0279

Mobile Phone: +1 802-727-0279

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Vermont and the surrounding Upper Valley, Willoughby Rescue offers a compelling blend of recreation, seclusion, and genuine civic contribution. Locals appreciate the value of supporting homegrown, non-profit organizations, and by choosing to camp here, they are directly funding the vital work of saving and rehabilitating farm animals. It's a retreat where one can truly feel good about where their money is going.

Furthermore, the experience provides the sought-after 'disconnect' that many Vermonters look for in a weekend getaway. You don’t have to travel far to feel completely removed from the everyday. The unique environment—sleeping near friendly animals, hiking to spectacular views right on the property, and cooking outdoors with minimal distraction—makes it an ideal, accessible sanctuary. It’s an authentic taste of rural Vermont life combined with a high level of hospitality and a powerful, positive mission. Willoughby Rescue is highly suitable for locals who want a memorable, unique, and value-driven camping or glamping experience that gives back to the New England community.

Willoughby Rescue

1098 Wild Hill Rd, Fairlee, VT 05045, USA