Best Campgrounds near Barnard, VT

Camping near Barnard, Vermont, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails around Quechee State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "There’s a hiking trail beside of 37 and it’s steep going down and up but well worth it." The trails lead to stunning views of the gorge and nearby visitor center.
• Fishing and Swimming: At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, families can enjoy a lovely lake with a swimming beach. A reviewer said, "The lake and beach is lovely, clean, and the water is warm and clear."
• Mountain Biking: For biking enthusiasts, Gifford Woods State Park Campground offers access to great trails. One visitor noted, "Great hiking trails and a pretty peaceful pond with fishing across the street."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers. A review of Quechee State Park Campground states, "They have very clean bathrooms and showers."
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds, like Emerald Lake State Park Campground, offer large, wooded sites. A camper shared, "Beautiful ridgetop campground with large wooded sites and lots of room between sites."
• Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. At Gifford Woods State Park Campground, one visitor said, "The staff were always available and willing to help with ice, firewood and quarters for showers!"

What you should know:

• No Electric Hookups: Most campgrounds, including Moosalamoo Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A reviewer pointed out, "No Electric or hookups."
• Coin-Operated Showers: Be prepared to bring quarters for showers. At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, a camper mentioned, "Showers were hot but minimal pressure. No hot water at the sinks."
• Wildlife Awareness: Campers should be aware of wildlife, especially bears. One review from Gifford Woods State Park Campground noted, "There has been an increase in Black Bear activity but that won't deter us from ever coming back."

Tips for camping with families:

• Lean-To Options: Consider staying in a lean-to for added protection from the elements. A family at Emerald Lake State Park Campground found it helpful during a rainy weekend, saying, "It was very helpful to have a lean-to during a very rainy weekend."
• Snack Bar Nearby: Many campgrounds, like Quechee State Park Campground, have snack bars or nearby dining options. One camper recommended, "I recommend eating at the snack bar! Their food is so good."
• Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for children. At Quechee-Pine Valley KOA, a reviewer mentioned, "There are tons of amenities and things for kids to do – swimming pool, fishing ponds, bike rental."

Tips from RVers:

• Big Rig Friendly: Many campgrounds, such as Gifford Woods State Park Campground, accommodate larger RVs. A camper noted, "The sites are nicely spaced and seem to accommodate big rigs rather well."
• Check Site Size: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A review of Lake Bomoseen KOA mentioned, "The sites are spacious enough, but are very close to each other."
• Cell Service: Be aware that cell service can be spotty. A visitor at Mount Ascutney State Park Campground mentioned, "The (AT&T) cell phone reception was pretty good, but could be slow at times."

Camping near Barnard, Vermont, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure.