RV camping near Charlotte, Vermont offers access to Lake Champlain's 120-mile shoreline with multiple camping options on both Vermont and New York sides of the lake. The region experiences average summer temperatures between 75-85°F with typical evening lows in the 50s. Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly over the lake, requiring campers to secure equipment.
What to do
Lake activities: Campers staying at Alburg RV Resort can access Lake Champlain directly. "There is a boat ramp and docks onsite yet the docks aren't part of the resort. They do have an area you can store your boat and trailer. There is a big long sandy beach," notes one reviewer who appreciated the water access despite preferring more privacy.
Historical exploration: Fort Ticonderoga is located about 10 miles from Brookwood RV Resort, making it a convenient day trip. "Ft. Ticonderoga and Lake George are right around the corner," explains a camper who enjoyed the historical attractions while noting "sites were really wooded, quiet, level, and spread out."
Mining activities: For families with children, some campgrounds offer unique activities. At Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks, one camper shares, "Being a fan of gems, I definitely bought an embarrassing amount of dirt for the gem mining (Got some good finds, so worth it!)" This activity provides entertainment for children during downtime at camp.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many rv parks near Charlotte, Vermont maintain well-kept bathrooms and facilities. A visitor to Shelburne Camping Area notes, "The bathhouse was clean. The ladies side had a fresh flower arrangement everyday." Maintaining proper hygiene facilities ranks high on camper priorities.
Seasonal community: At Shady Oaks Camping Resort, campers appreciate the established community. "Mostly Seasonal area with some overnight spots. No tents allowed. But pet friendly. Small but clean areas with electric at each site," reports one reviewer who noted the friendly seasonal residents.
Waterfront options: Smaller campgrounds like Brookside RV Camping offer unique riverside settings. A visitor describes it as "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." These less developed sites provide natural settings with basic amenities.
What you should know
Electrical concerns: Some campers report electrical issues at campgrounds in the area. Check your RV's electrical systems before hooking up to campground power. One reviewer at Shelburne Camping Area reported serious concerns: "Electricity would not work. We got an error on our control panel that said stop! Power source is not correct!"
Site spacing varies: Campground density differs significantly between locations. While some offer privacy, others place units close together. A camper at Smugglers Notch RV Village appreciated that "They offer a variety of different sites to fit each campers needs... The sites are good size and come with full hookups."
Connectivity concerns: Internet and cell service can be spotty in the Lake Champlain region. "We got crappy cell service, and the camp wifi was spotty- but hey, we were camping, right?" remarks a visitor to Brookwood RV Resort. Plan accordingly if you need reliable internet access during your stay.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground amenities: Several RV parks near Charlotte offer recreational facilities for children. Alburg RV Resort provides "a big playground which keeps the kids busy," according to one visitor.
Consider swimming options: Pools offer safer swimming alternatives to lake access for families with young children. Note that supervision quality varies; one visitor to Plattsburgh RV Park commented positively on the amenities: "This place is huge! With a pool, community center, mini golf, it is a great summer spot."
Reserve far in advance: Family-friendly sites fill quickly during peak seasons. A family that stayed at Smugglers Notch RV Village noted, "This hidden gem we discovered last season. We loved it so much we camped here twice last year," indicating the importance of booking return visits early.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require significant effort to level RVs. Bring extra leveling blocks or ask about site grading when making reservations.
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds near Charlotte close between mid-October and May, though not all. One camper noted about Shelburne Camping Area: "Love that it's open year round!" This makes it an option for off-season camping when most facilities are closed.
Rig size limitations: Check campground websites or call ahead to confirm your RV will fit. While some parks like Iroquois Campground & RV Park advertise as big-rig friendly, a reviewer noted: "Sites somewhat small and close but there are some larger sites."
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