Belmont, Vermont offers numerous camping options within a 50-mile radius. This rural region experiences warm summers with temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F and cool evenings around 55°F. The area's mixed hardwood forests and proximity to the Green Mountains create diverse camping environments with varying terrain and wildlife viewing opportunities.
What to do
Hiking trails: Branbury State Park Campground provides access to multiple hiking options with varying difficulty levels. One camper notes, "There was a five minute hike- though it is quite a rocky, boulder-y hike- from the sites leads to a small river and swimming hole." The park maintains trails suitable for day hikes within walking distance of campsites.
Water activities: Moreau Lake State Park Campground offers paddling opportunities on a small lake. According to a visitor, "Nice sandy beach with lifeguard hours. The lake is nice for canoeing and kayaking but fish number and sizes are limited due to number of people fishing it on a regular basis." The park rents canoes and paddleboards during summer months.
Seasonal recreation: Local campgrounds provide different activities based on weather conditions. A regular visitor to Branbury State Park Campground mentions, "Fall in New England can't be beat," highlighting the autumn foliage viewing opportunities. Winter visitors can find cross-country skiing on converted hiking trails when conditions permit.
What campers like
Lake access: Campers appreciate the swimming areas available at several parks. One visitor to Branbury State Park Campground shares, "Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night!" The lake provides cooling relief during summer months.
Site privacy: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites with natural screening. A camper at Moreau Lake State Park Campground reports, "Campsites are spacious, shady, and had good separation between the neighboring sites which we enjoyed." This layout reduces noise between neighboring campsites and enhances the wilderness experience.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise from visitors. One Branbury State Park Campground camper notes, "The camp staff was so nice. They kept the bathrooms and areas so clean." Another mentions, "Bathrooms are flushing compost. However, there are only four showers for the whole campground."
What you should know
Equestrian considerations: Horse campgrounds near Belmont, Vermont remain limited. While Tippicanoe Campground accepts pets, specific horse facilities aren't mentioned in available reviews. Equestrians should contact campgrounds directly regarding trailer parking, corral availability, and trail access for horses before arrival.
Wildlife precautions: Bears inhabit camping areas around Belmont. A camper at Branbury State Park Campground warns, "Just make sure you put your food and trash away- there are black bears in the area!" Most campgrounds require proper food storage and trash disposal to minimize wildlife encounters.
Seasonal timing: Camping availability varies by season. Many Vermont state parks operate from Memorial Day through Columbus Day weekend. A visitor to Branbury notes, "We showed up on a busy Memorial Day weekend without reservations and the staff was kind enough to give us their last leanto." Advance reservations become especially important during holiday weekends and peak foliage season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: NV Farms Outfitters and Cabins provides outdoor recreation opportunities suitable for children of various ages. Branbury State Park Campground includes "a large playground" according to one visitor, who also mentions "a nature center with all kinds of information and activities" that can entertain children during inclement weather.
Swimming options: Water features enhance family camping experiences. A visitor to Branbury State Park Campground shares, "The day use section has a wonderful beach with a swimming area and boat launch. Large trees provide shade on a grassy lawn, and grills are available." These designated swimming areas typically operate with lifeguards during peak season.
Site selection: Families should consider specific site features. One camper at Branbury State Park Campground recalls, "We stayed in a wooded area surrounded by large rocks my daughter could climb on. The beach was nearby and included in the stay with horseshoes and a playground." Corner sites often provide more play space for children.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Large rig access varies between campgrounds. A Moreau Lake State Park Campground visitor advises, "The road to our campsite was paved and in good shape but there were a few tight spots because of the trees that make it tricky for a big rig (Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs)." RVers should confirm maximum vehicle lengths before booking.
Hookup availability: Utility connections differ across campgrounds. Tippicanoe Campground provides full hookups, with a visitor noting "the sites all have water, 50amp and sewer hookups." Conversely, a Moreau Lake State Park Campground camper points out, "This is dry camping so there are no hook-ups but there are restrooms and shower."
Generator policies: Noise restrictions impact power options. At Moreau Lake State Park Campground, "Generators are allowed but not too many people were using them. The few other campers around that used them were mindful of quiet hours." RVers should verify generator hours and restrictions at each campground.