Glamping near Belmont, Vermont offers elevated outdoor lodging at elevations between 1,100 and 2,800 feet in the Green Mountain National Forest region. The area experiences dramatic temperature shifts from day to night, often dropping 20-30 degrees after sunset even during summer months. Most luxury camping options operate seasonally from late May through mid-October with peak occupancy occurring during foliage season in September and early October.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: At Woodford State Park Campground, the Appalachian Trail runs directly through the park with several moderate day hikes available. "This campground offers great hiking and a casual feel to it. Good for passer byes or staying the weekend to go fishing," noted a reviewer who appreciated the trail access.
Fishing opportunities: The calm waters at Half Moon Pond State Park Campground provide excellent angling for beginners. "We fished and kayaked right from our site," reported one camper. Sites on the eastern shore get morning sun and better fishing access according to frequent visitors.
Water recreation: The turquoise waters at Emerald Lake State Park provide swimming options with depth variations for different skill levels. "We used Emerald Lake as a base camp for doing some day hikes nearby. The lake was also a great place to cool off after a hike," shared one visitor. The swimming area includes a small, sandy beach with changing facilities nearby.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spacious layout at Quechee State Park Campground creates a more secluded glamping experience. "The sites are large. If you stay in the back it's quieter. The bathroom is very clean. They offer showers that cost you a few quarters," explained one reviewer who visited regularly.
Clean facilities: Gifford Woods State Park maintains exceptionally high standards. "This campground is the number one rated in Vermont for a reason. The staff were wonderful, the sites are pristine and picturesque, the facilities are decorated with wildflowers," noted an impressed visitor. Bathrooms are cleaned twice daily during peak season.
Family-friendly amenities: Lake Bomoseen KOA offers structured activities for children. "This campground is located on lake bomoseen. The campground is small which makes it nice. It has three pools. A kiddie pool, a water slide pool and a larger pool that goes from 3 ft to 6 ft," explained a family that visited with children.
What you should know
Weather variability: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "We camped here for two nights for a mid-week getaway. The park is small, quiet and very well cared for. Restrooms are modern and clean," shared a visitor to Half Moon Pond, who also noted to bring extra layers for cool evenings.
Reservation requirements: Securing premium glamping sites at Caton Place Campground requires advance planning. "Camped here Labor Day Weekend in our 40 ft 5th wheel. We had a pull thru site. Easy to drive into the campground and into the site," reported a satisfied camper. For weekend stays in summer, book 3-4 months in advance.
Seasonal considerations: Most Vermont glamping sites close after mid-October. "This past holiday weekend we went to the campground. Upon arrival the owner made me go with them to the site and leave the motorhome blocking the entrance into the campground," noted a visitor to Caton Place, highlighting the importance of understanding site logistics before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Quechee-Pine Valley KOA offers organized programs specifically designed for children. "Saturday you can go for a Hay Ride which is so much fun! Right down the road is the famous Quechee Gorge which is breathtaking any time of the year," shared a leader who brought a youth group.
Safety considerations: Select sites away from water for younger children. "We camped here with our dog on a tent site in camping area B. I really appreciated the VT state parks interactive campground map, which allowed us to see the sites from home and choose the one that would suit us best," explained a visitor to Emerald Lake who carefully researched site selection.
Bathroom proximity: When glamping with small children, consider sites closest to facilities. "The bathhouse in the first loop is fine (cold water sinks, hand soap, paper towels). Token operated showers that we didn't use this time," noted a visitor to Woodford State Park who camped with family.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Some glamping locations have limited turning radius for larger rigs. "This campground is not big rig friendly. Driving out of the site was just as bad. You have to go down a small hill and bottom out the front and then drag the backend out of the dirt," cautioned an RVer at Caton Place Campground with a 43-foot motorhome.
Hookup variations: Electric service ranges from 30 to 50 amps depending on location. "The park is very large so if you want to be near the pool/entertainment area or nearby bathrooms, pick your site accordingly. The park has a nice camp store with everything from t-shirts to RV supplies to food," advised a visitor who appreciated the conveniences at Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.
Leveling requirements: Many Vermont glamping sites require blocks or levelers. "Sites are on top of each other but some are more spacious and away from the others. You need quarters for showers," noted a camper at Quechee State Park, highlighting the importance of bringing leveling equipment and correct change for facilities.
