Nestled between the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain, Bristol, Vermont offers RV camping options at elevations ranging from 500 to 1,200 feet. The region experiences summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season with cool evenings dropping to 50-60°F. Most campgrounds remain open from mid-May through mid-October, with fall foliage reaching peak color in late September to early October.
What to do
Hiking trails near lake access: Branbury State Park Campground provides direct access to hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, including the popular Rattlesnake Cliffs. "There was hiking nearby, but with the rain we weren't able to go. Can't wait to go back again!" notes one visitor about the park's natural attractions.
Swimming and beach activities: Branbury State Park Campground offers a beach area with designated swimming zones. "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," shares a camper.
Gem mining for families: Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks offers mining activities for children. "Being a fan of gems, I definitely bought an embarrassing amount of dirt for the gem mining (Got some good finds, so worth it!)" explains one enthusiastic visitor who enjoyed this unique activity.
History exploration: Fort Ticonderoga sits just across Lake Champlain from Bristol. "Ft. Ticonderoga and Lake George are right around the corner," mentions a camper who stayed at Brookwood RV Resort while exploring historical sites.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Brookside RV Camping offers sites directly along water. "This is a great spot to stop for a night with your RV and enjoy the river for a night. Easy to get to, just off of a one-way paved road," writes one camper about their experience.
Lake views and sunsets: Lake George Schroon Valley Resort provides natural water features. "Absolutely one of the best campgrounds in NY, especially if you value nature, quiet, and simplicity. From tubing down the Schroon River to visiting local eateries in Bolton Landing, there is simply nothing better than a stay here," shares an enthusiastic visitor.
Spacious campsites with privacy: Many campgrounds offer well-separated sites. "I couldn't believe how large the lots were. While they aren't super far from one another, they are large enough that they seem further than they are," notes a camper about Branbury State Park.
Mountain backdrop settings: Some RV campgrounds near Bristol feature mountain views. "At Smugglers Notch RV Resort you have the Mountains as your Canvas and the beautiful campground your Palette for color," describes one visitor about the scenic surroundings.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Wildlife precautions are necessary in this region. "There are bears in the area, so be aware and store all food properly," warns a camper about Branbury State Park. Multiple campgrounds post bear awareness notices.
Seasonal availability limitations: Most RV campgrounds near Bristol close before winter. Brookwood RV Resort operates "May 15-October 15" while others like Shady Oaks Camping Resort run "May 1 - Sep 30."
Water conservation requirements: Some campgrounds have specific resource guidelines. "With COVID-19 restrictions this year, the bathrooms are closed to those who have facilities in their RV. There's also a drought and they're on a well, so water conservation is essential," noted a visitor to Brookwood RV Resort.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "The downside is the noise from the Northway within earshot and from the noisy seasonal campers who insist on blasting their music to the whole campground. Loosely enforced quiet hours," mentions one reviewer about Lake George Schroon Valley Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Iroquois Campground & RV Park offers recreational facilities for children. "Nice campground near Plattsburgh. Sites somewhat small and tight but there are some larger sites. Staff very friendly, under new ownership, lots of seasonal sites and folks, fun activities," reports one family.
Pet-friendly planning: Not all campgrounds welcome pets. While Brookwood RV Resort and Shady Oaks Camping Resort allow pets, others have restrictions. "Husband and I took a trip with all 3 pups and I couldn't even tell you who had more fun!! The doggos and husband absolutely loved being able to walk the beautiful trail in the cooler weather," shares a visitor to Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks.
Bathroom facilities: Shower and restroom quality varies significantly. "Bathrooms are flushing compost. However, there are only four showers for the whole campground," notes a Branbury State Park visitor, highlighting the need to plan accordingly.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require layered clothing. "Even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time," explains a Branbury State Park camper about the need for warm sleeping gear even in summer.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Smugglers Notch RV Village provides prepared sites. "The sites are good size and come with full hookups. They also have great WIFI," notes one RVer who appreciated the convenient setup.
Hookup availability: Full-service options vary between campgrounds. Smugglers Notch RV Village features "60 pull-through RV pads with full hookups" while others like Brookwood RV Resort offer "Full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP)" according to visitors.
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access varies significantly. "We got crappy cell service, and the camp wifi was spotty- but hey, we were camping, right?" explains a camper about connectivity at Brookwood RV Resort.
Seasonal site considerations: Many campgrounds have long-term residents. "Most of the campers in the campground seem to be weekend warriors who leave their campers on premises to enjoy them on the weekends," notes a visitor about the camping community at Lake George Schroon Valley Resort.
