The northeast region of Vermont features pristine lakes, dense forests, and rolling hills with elevations ranging from 700 to 3,000 feet. Camping options around Barton include established state parks, family-oriented private campgrounds, and rustic tent sites. The area's remote location creates limited cell reception in most camping locations, with temperatures typically ranging from 45°F to 75°F during camping season.
What to do
Paddle local lakes: Maidstone State Park offers a peaceful lake setting perfect for kayaking and wildlife spotting. "The lake is clear and beautiful. The loons are amazing," reports Emma B., who appreciated the accessible kayaking opportunities.
Explore rail trails: Ricker Pond State Park provides direct access to the Cross Vermont Trail. "We had our trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground," shares Emma B., highlighting the convenience for cyclists.
Day trip to Newport: Prouty Beach Campground offers easy access to downtown Newport. "Prouty Beach Campground is in a great location to downtown Newport and there is a biking/walking path to downtown which is about a half mile away," notes Nancy W., describing the proximity to local amenities.
Winter camping: For adventurous campers, Smugglers Notch offers off-season opportunities. "Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve and make sure you park in the allotted area. Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed and the area is not plowed," explains Ed M.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Kingdom Campground offers generous camping spaces with excellent views. "The site we stayed at has a few trees around it & a beautiful view in the back," mentions Heather O., while another camper notes, "the newest sites are super spacious!!!! We are here with 34' fifth wheel."
Swimming options: Many local campgrounds feature lake access for cooling off. "The lake is pretty. They have seasonals set up on the lake," says Ronald C. about Lakeside Camping, while Tessa H. notes of Ricker Pond, "Unlike Stillwater this is on its own pond so not as much traffic."
Night sky viewing: The area's remote location creates ideal stargazing conditions. "Dog friendly and quiet campground with goregous views of the milky way galaxy," reports Kelli M. about Big Deer State Park, highlighting the minimal light pollution.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful setting of Northeast Kingdom campgrounds. Miccal M. describes Maidstone State Park as having "campsites not too close" with "nice hiking trails and babbling brooks," creating a serene environment.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds have minimal cell service. "No cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," warns Michele S. about Ricker Pond. Another camper notes about Kingdom Campground: "No cable, and only PBS over the air...... Oh well, did I say this is great for a quite getaway!!!!!"
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly, especially waterfront options. "I've been visiting Ricker Pond for nearly 20 years (except for the years that I don't book enough in advance and aren't able to secure a spot for my desired length of stay). My favorite lean to site is directly on the water, private, and fills up fast," advises Neena B.
Seasonal facilities: Maidstone State Park and similar parks operate on limited schedules. "Nice hiking trails and babbling brooks," notes Ted D., who also points out "coin showers" and "limited WiFi at check in building." Most parks operate between Memorial Day and Columbus Day weekends only.
Water conditions: Lake bottoms vary throughout the region. Jennifer L. describes Prouty Beach: "I was initially very excited to be so close to the lake but my enthusiasm waned a little after a swim- the lake bottom was murky sticky mud which is fine it's just not my favorite."
Tips for camping with families
Family-focused amenities: Tree Corners Family Campground specializes in family experiences. "Massive campground made mostly for those with kids. They have two separate pools and hot tubs for kids and adults. Tons of other activities for kids- splash pad, water slides, playground, basketball court, etc.," reports Mallory P.
Kid-friendly yurts: Yurt camping near Barton, Vermont offers families weatherproof alternatives to tenting. Several state parks feature yurts with sturdy walls and raised floors, making them ideal for families with small children during variable weather conditions.
Beach access: Look for campgrounds with sandy shores. "The park covers 35 acres with 75 campsites and many amenities that you would expect in a public park like tennis courts, playground, disc golf course, basketball court, shuffleboard, horseshoe pits, walking paths, and bike and boat rentals," writes Nancy W. about Prouty Beach.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds are livelier than others. "Quiet time is 10pm but for the most part, people were pretty quiet and respectful long before 10pm," notes Mallory P. about Tree Corners, while others mention varying noise levels at different parks.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Little River State Park and many state parks offer few or no hookups. "Very clean and quiet campground mostly set up for RVs. All RV sites have water, sewer, and electric. Tent sites have water and electric," reports Nick about Kingdom Campground, highlighting that private campgrounds typically offer more services than state parks.
Site dimensions: Many older campgrounds have tight spaces. "The sites are extremely small had a 42 foot fifth wheel and took me 15 minutes to get set so I could disconnect. Good thing there was no one next to me on both sides so I had room to move around otherwise I would've never made it in there," warns Ronald C. about Lakeside Camping.
Electrical reliability: During peak summer heat, power can fluctuate. "Our electric was problematic. Granted it was hot while we were there (in the high 80's and low 90's) our electric pedestal showed readings between 110 and 115 volts which was constantly cutting off our air conditioners," notes Nancy W. about Prouty Beach Campground.
Off-grid preparation: For those seeking yurt camping in Barton, Vermont area with an RV, prepare for limited services. "No electrical hookups to be found, so bring your solar panels if you want power," advises Shari G. about Ricker Pond State Park.
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