Camping near Belmont, Vermont ranges from secluded forest sites to mountain-view locations across elevations between 1,000-2,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during day with cool 50-60°F nights, while spring and fall camping requires extra layers for overnight temperatures that can drop below 40°F. The Green Mountain region offers numerous options for campers seeking pet accommodations with varying terrain and seasonal considerations.
What to do
Kayaking and swimming: At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy water activities on the turquoise lake. "We especially loved the trail around the lake - quiet with good swimming all around. The vista trail has an awesome view of the lake from across the road, and the meadow trail leads to an old cemetery, which is kind of fun to explore," notes Tara S.
Hiking local trails: The Greendale Loop provides a 4-mile hiking experience through mixed forest with stream views. "The campground offers easy access to the Greendale Loop, a 4.0 mile hike through a mixed forest of northern hardwood and conifer trees with long stretches bordering scenic streams," explains M.A.D. P. who stayed at Greendale Campground.
Historical exploration: Visit the Calvin Coolidge homestead near Coolidge State Park Campground. "Make sure you visit Calvin Coolidge's historic home not far from the park," recommends Tim K. The presidential birthplace and historic village provides educational opportunities and insights into Vermont's past.
What campers like
Mountain views: Campers appreciate the elevated panoramas at Coolidge State Park. "This place gets my vote for best campground in Vermont. Especially true if you're lucky enough to get one of the few sites on the outside of A loop that has a Lean-to with a view," writes Cliff M., highlighting the unique scenery available at certain sites.
Waterside relaxation: The babbling brooks and streams provide soothing natural sounds. Ryan P. from Greendale Campground shares, "We picked a nice site next to a babbling brook. While we only tent camped we plan to return with our new to us pop up this year."
Wooded privacy: Many sites offer natural separation between campers. "There are 11 campsites available in a wooded setting. Each site has a picnic table, a fire ring with a grill, and a parking spur," notes M.A.D. P. about Greendale Campground, emphasizing the natural layout that maintains privacy between sites despite the small campground size.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the region operate from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend, with limited off-season accessibility. "This site is not maintained for winter use. Deep snow often covers amenities at this site December – mid April. The nearest plowed parking area to the campground in the winter is approximately one mile away and access is via skis or snowshoes," explains M.A.D. P. about Greendale Campground.
Insect preparation: Bug protection is essential, particularly in early summer. Jeff N. from Greendale Campground warns, "Mosquitos. Black flies. Deer flies. All of them biting. Cool site, but super buggy."
Shower facilities: Prepare quarters for pay showers at most state parks. At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, Gary C. advises, "Pay showers so save your quarters. Nice lake for canoeing with trails from the camping area."
Cell service variability: Signal strength varies dramatically across campgrounds. While Hapgood Pond provides "a little bit of cell service (2 bars) with Verizon" according to Katy Z., other locations may have limited or no connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Lean-to selection: Families should consider lean-tos for weather protection and extra space. At Gifford Woods State Park Campground, Ming R. explains, "Leantos at this state park give you protection from the elements - mind you not all sites have a leanto. 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."
Beach areas: Several parks offer designated swimming areas ideal for children. "Camp Plymouth has cabins to rent and there is space for group camping. This Park has a huge beach and picnic area with a snack bar and boat rentals," shares M.A.D. P. about Camp Plymouth State Park.
Site placement: Consider the terrain when choosing sites with children. At Emerald Lake, Tara S. advises, "If you have little ones, check out the map before you reserve a site and find one on the opposite side of the ledge," noting that some sites are "perched on a steep ledge, making them a bit sketchy for families with kids."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult terrain for larger rigs. At Horseshoe Acres Campground, Melody C. warns, "Warning: NOT BIG RIG FRIENDLY! At least at the upper sites... Our 42 foot fifth wheel hit the road going up it, then severely druuuuug down the hill going down it extremely slowly. We have a drop frame, so it didn't make matters any better."
Size limitations: Most pet friendly camping areas near Belmont have constraints on RV length. Coolidge State Park indicates "NO big-rig-friendly" in its amenities list, making advance research essential for RVers planning trips with pets to the area.
Site specifications: Request specific information about your assigned site before arrival. "We accidently booked a tent site, and my popup camper and truck almost didn't fit. We will have to go back and get a shelter site," shares William P. about his experience at Coolidge State Park, emphasizing the importance of understanding site dimensions.
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