Glamping near Danby, Vermont provides comfortable outdoor accommodations at elevations ranging from 800-1,000 feet in the western Green Mountains. This region experiences cooler evening temperatures even in summer, with overnight lows frequently dropping into the 50s. Most glamping sites require advance booking during the May-October season, with some locations offering heated units for early or late season stays.
What to do
Kayaking on Half Moon Pond: Launch directly from waterfront campsites at Half Moon Pond State Park Campground. "We really liked this campground. Sites are a good size and we were able to snag a water front site which was really beautiful. We fished and kayaked right from our site," notes Rebecca D.
Hiking trails for all abilities: Explore various trails directly from glamping locations. "The Appalachian Trail runs right through the park and you can hike up to Deer Leep, around Kent Pond, or to Thundering Falls right from the campground. Nearby hikes include the Bucklin Trail to the top of Killington, Sherburne Pass to Pico Peak, and Canty Trail to Blue Ridge Mountain," shares Tara S. about Gifford Woods State Park Campground.
Outdoor swimming: Many glamping locations offer natural swimming areas. "The sites are roomy and semi-private which is nice. The pool is very cool, my kids really enjoyed it, but it was crowded and you are constantly dodging footballs & other balls that are constantly whizzing by your head," reports Happy Camper L. about amenities at Moose Hillock Camping Resorts.
Local attractions: Use glamping as a base for exploring nearby towns. "It's a short drive to Lake George Village, Great Escape and the Erie Canal system and southern end of Lake Champlain. Great ice cream and mini golf located walking distance from the park," mentions April L.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many glamping sites offer well-separated accommodations. "The sites at this park are huge. You could have parked three RVs in our site. Added bonus is that there is nice separation between sites with trees and shrubs that block out your neighbors and provide lots of privacy," writes Nancy W. about Moose Hillock Camping Resorts.
Campground cleanliness: Regular maintenance is a highlight for many visitors. "This campground is the number one rated in Vermont for a reason. The staff were wonderful, the sites are pristine and picturesque, the facilities are decorated with wildflowers," Thomas M. shares about Gifford Woods State Park.
Activities for groups: Several glamping locations accommodate group activities. "We camped for two nights in Lean-tos with 20 Girls and Leaders. It's a great place to bring a Troop and use the lake and trails for badges plus cooking badges as well," explains Tammy E. about Emerald Lake State Park Campground.
Peaceful settings: The natural environment enhances the glamping experience. "We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning. We're going back later this summer for a longer stay," reports Melissa S. about Woodford State Park.
What you should know
Shower arrangements: Most glamping locations have token-operated showers. "Bathrooms are modern and clean. Everyone seems to adhere to quiet hours so it was easy to get a good night's sleep. There's no difficulty with fires here, because the firewood sold on site is kiln dried and kept in a shed," explains Cynthia K. about Half Moon Pond State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Conditions vary widely throughout the operating season. "We stayed before peak season in the days leading up to Memorial Day weekend. Very quiet and park was almost empty as they had just opened for the season 2 days prior," notes April L.
Wi-Fi and cell coverage: Many glamping sites have limited connectivity. "There is NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect. The lake is swampy at this end so not much to look at. The staff were pleasant to deal with," warns Dave S. about Lake Bomoseen KOA.
Early reservations required: The most desirable sites book quickly. "This is a popular camp ground so reserve as early as 11 months before arrival," advises Ming R.
Tips for camping with families
Choose appropriate sites: Some glamping areas have challenging terrain. "In fact, many of them are perched on a steep ledge, making them a bit sketchy for families with kids. If you have little ones, check out the map before you reserve a site and find one on the opposite side of the ledge," suggests Tara S.
Park activities for children: Many locations offer organized programming. "Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee)," shares Jen B. about Quechee State Park Campground.
Rental options: Equipment rentals save packing space. "You can rent kayaks and paddle boats as well as life jackets. 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," recommends Ming R.
Kid-friendly alternatives: Consider nearby activities for rainy days. "We also drove 10 minutes to nearby Danby for horse-riding at Mountain View Ranch which is a good break from soaking in water every day," shares Ming R.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Many glamping sites near Danby lack full hookups. "No Electric or hookups. They also sell ice and firewood at the check in station. Recommend site 11 or the BIRCH lean to as the 2 most spacious and/or secluded sites," advises Chris A. about Quechee State Park.
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging. "The roads aren't wide enough to take a motorhome into. The pull through site is not level and is barely long enough to fit my 43' rig (with my motorcycle lift)," cautions Jim B. about Caton Place Campground.
Fire setup: Campfire arrangements vary between sites. "There's no difficulty with fires here, because the firewood sold on site is kiln dried and kept in a shed, and the fire pits are 3 - sided concrete block," notes Cynthia K.
Dump station access: Plan for waste disposal needs. "There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in a RV," shares Jan B. about Quechee State Park.
