Vermont's Green Mountains surround Barnard, with elevations ranging between 1,200 and 2,500 feet creating distinct microclimates for camping. Local state parks and private campgrounds typically remain open from mid-May through mid-October, with overnight temperatures dropping into the 40s even during summer months. Yurt camping near Barnard, Vermont offers weather-protected alternatives to traditional tent camping during unpredictable mountain weather.
What to do
Hiking directly from camp: At Gifford Woods State Park Campground, trails connect to the Appalachian Trail system without needing to drive. "It was a nice hike back to the pond, which is very pretty and is along the Appalachian Trail," notes Alyssa C. For a challenging day hike, "walk about 2.5 miles to the Deer Leap Overlook for some incredible views of the mountain ranges nearby," suggests Kyle R.
Swimming at state parks: Green Mountain swimming spots range from shallow ponds to deeper lakes with designated swimming areas. Half Moon Pond offers a quieter swimming experience with "a deeper swimming area" despite the pond being "pretty shallow and has some weeds," according to Michele S. Most state park swimming areas lack lifeguards, so swimming safety awareness is important.
Winter activities: Though most campgrounds close by mid-October, the region transforms for winter recreation. Many camping areas become accessible for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing with proper equipment and experience. Nearby Killington offers downhill skiing options when summer camping winds down.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention facility cleanliness as a standout feature. At Quechee State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the "clean bathrooms" as Kate R. notes, while Jan B. mentions "the bathroom is very clean. They offer showers that cost you a few quarters." Most Vermont state parks have modern restroom facilities with coin-operated hot showers.
Private campsites: Site privacy varies significantly across campgrounds. At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, "many sites are large and private" according to Tara S., though she cautions some "are perched on a steep ledge, making them a bit sketchy for families with kids." Half Moon Pond features sites where "each site is separated with trees, offering some privacy and a greater sense of nature," says M.A.D. P.
Seasonal yurt options: For campers seeking alternative accommodations, yurt camping around Barnard provides more weather protection. Caton Place Campground offers yurt options that stand up better to Vermont's unpredictable mountain weather. According to Anne R., the campground provides "clean facilities" making it a good basecamp for exploring the region.
What you should know
Booking windows: Vermont state parks accept reservations 11 months in advance, which is essential for securing prime waterfront sites. As Susan E. explains about Half Moon Pond State Park Campground, "The campground is small and quiet," making its limited number of sites book quickly, especially for summer weekends and holidays.
Limited connectivity: Cell service and wifi access varies widely. At Quechee-Pine Valley KOA, "WiFi is nearly non-existent on the grounds, you can get it a little here & there in the pool area," according to Sara D. Most state parks have minimal to no connectivity, so download maps and information beforehand.
Seasonal limitations: Most area campgrounds operate from mid-May through mid-October. Vermont's shoulder seasons (May and October) offer fewer crowds but can bring overnight temperatures close to freezing. Firewood availability might be affected by seasonal conditions, as one camper at Rogers Rock noted: "Fires were a challenge. I'm assuming that this was just a wet season here."
Noise considerations: Road noise affects some campgrounds. Tara S. mentions that at Quechee State Park, camping was "fairly quiet, except for the noise from the road, which is very close to the park." Sites further from main roads generally offer a quieter experience.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly programs: Some campgrounds offer structured activities for children. At Quechee-Pine Valley KOA, "Saturday you can go for a Hay Ride which is so much fun!" says Donna C. Jen B. reports that at Quechee State Park, "Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee)."
Site selection for young children: Choose sites carefully when camping with small children. At Emerald Lake, Ming R. advises: "Sites are on top of each other but some are more spacious and away from the others," recommending their favorite: "Larchmont is our favorite camp site. It is much larger than most sites, a short walk to the showers and a bit tucked away for privacy."
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with beginner-friendly water access. Gifford Woods offers easy access to Kent Pond, while at Moose Hillock Camping Resort, families appreciate the "awesome pool with a pirate ship that has 2 slides, night swimming," making it particularly good for families with varied swimming abilities.
Terrain considerations: Vermont's mountainous topography means campgrounds often feature significant elevation changes. Jessica W. warns about Moose Hillock: "The hilly terrain is insaneeee! If you have never been before, book a sight as close as possible to the pool and office, because the further you get, the higher the altitude."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many Vermont campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Lake Bomoseen KOA, Scott A. noted, "Somehow we managed to get the one pull through spot that was at the end and harder to get in." Jim B. found at Caton Place Campground that "The pull through site is not level and is barely long enough to fit my 43' rig (with my motorcycle lift)."
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited primarily to private campgrounds. The Vermont state parks mentioned in reviews offer no hookups, though some like Quechee State Park provide a dump station. Chris A. notes at Quechee State Park: "There are plenty of fresh water spigots and a spacious dump site if needed."
Access road limitations: RV accessibility varies significantly by campground. Chris A. recommends checking site specifics: "The sites are nicely spaced and seem to accommodate big rigs rather well. We have seen all shapes and sizes come and go."
