Best Campgrounds near Craftsbury Common, VT
Camping areas near Craftsbury Common, Vermont include several state parks and private campgrounds offering a range of accommodation options. Green River Reservoir State Park provides primitive boat-in campsites for tent camping, while established facilities like Mountain View Campground offer tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. The region includes both family-friendly campgrounds with amenities and more remote locations for those seeking a wilderness experience. Elmore State Park Campground, approximately 20 miles southwest of Craftsbury Common, features spacious tent and RV sites without hookups but provides access to Lake Elmore and hiking trails.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, typically from mid-May through mid-October, with Vermont's state parks generally closing after Columbus Day weekend. Summer months bring comfortable temperatures ideal for outdoor recreation, while early fall offers spectacular foliage viewing opportunities. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during peak summer months. Green River Reservoir State Park requires paddling to reach campsites, making advance planning essential. The primitive nature of some sites means limited amenities, with vault toilets being the standard at more remote locations. A camper noted, "Green River Reservoir is a primitive park, perfect for paddling, wild camping, swimming, and watching wildlife. Most sites are within a mile of the boat launch, a few require closer to a 2-mile paddle."
Campground experiences vary significantly across the region. Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings, with locations like Green River Reservoir offering secluded paddle-in sites where visitors can enjoy pristine waters. Family-oriented campgrounds such as Mountain View and Tree Corners provide extensive amenities including swimming pools, playgrounds, and camp stores. Several visitors mentioned the balance of natural beauty and convenient facilities. According to one review, "Mountain View Campground is beautifully maintained with meticulously kept buildings and friendly staff." For those seeking a quieter experience, state parks generally offer more spacious sites with natural surroundings. Some campgrounds experience road noise, particularly those near major routes, so selecting sites deeper within campground loops is recommended for those prioritizing tranquility.