Camping spots near Derby Line, Vermont range from developed state parks to more primitive options scattered throughout the Northeast Kingdom. Temperatures in this northern border region typically reach 75-80°F during summer days with nighttime lows dropping to 45-55°F. Winter camping isn't practical in most locations as temperatures regularly fall below 0°F with significant snowfall accumulation from November through April.
What to do
Bike to Canada: From Prouty Beach Campground, cyclists can access trails leading directly to the international border. "You can ride your bike to Canada or into town and see the small town community. Wonderful place to ride bikes and watch the sunset," notes camper Bran P.
Paddle on Lake Willoughby: The deep, clear waters at White Caps Campground offer excellent kayaking opportunities. "The lake is crystal clear and beach right across the road. Kayak & canoe rentals available with crystal clear lake to swim in," reports Jessi C.
Hike Mount Pisgah: Trails near Will-O-Wood Campground provide access to mountain summits with minimal light pollution. "My husband and I visited Will-O-Wood Campground in early June the night before we hiked the nearby Mount Pisgah. We loved seeing Jupiter!" shares Emma N.
What campers like
Lake wildlife viewing: Brighton State Park Campground provides excellent opportunities to spot native bird species. "Love listening to the loons in the morning," writes Heather O., while another camper adds, "We went late to see or hear allot of loans but we still heard some we'll definitely be camping here again!"
Remote quietness: The distance from urban centers creates peaceful camping at Maidstone State Park. "I've found my place of peace and tranquility and it's where I'd like to reside eventually. The lake had to be the most pure and pristine lake in Vermont," says Kyle B.
Fishing access: Lakeside Camping provides direct water access for anglers. "Island pond vermont - Peaceful- it's in the woods but it's worth the stay. It's only a few miles to Canada. I had no phone service," mentions Dena A., who adds "kayaking is great."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the area have poor connectivity. At Prouty Beach Campground, "Strangely Verizon has strong signal but bandwidth issues/very slow to stopped at times. AT&T works better and u can do WebEx's. WiFi does not reach entire campground," reports Ted D.
Bathroom facilities vary: Some campgrounds offer better facilities than others. Belview Campground provides "showers and toilets on property, only two for M/F. You pay $.25 for 5 minutes of hot water, which unfortunately isn't always hot!" according to Robin P.
Site sizes differ significantly: Campgrounds offer vastly different site dimensions. At Tree Corners Family Campground, "sites are super close & face each other site map is way off," warns Jessi C., while at White Caps Campground, another camper found that "the sites are HUGE! Probably the biggest we have ever seen in our travels thus far."
Tips for camping with families
Waterslides and pools: Tree Corners Family Campground offers water recreation specifically for children. "They have two separate pools and hot tubs for kids and adults. Tons of other activities for kids- splash pad, water slides, playground, basketball court, etc.," writes Mallory P.
Lean-to shelters: For camping during unpredictable weather, Brighton State Park offers covered options. "Clean, beautiful state park. Love camping in the lean-tos! My boyfriend & I camp here on a yearly basis with his fam," shares Heather O.
Lakeside beaches: Lakeside Camping provides safe swimming areas for children. "We have been coming here for the last 14 years together, and my husband since he was a baby. The beach is the best! Not overcrowded," says Cathy R.
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: Be prepared for potential power issues at Prouty Beach Campground. "Our electric was problematic. Granted it was hot while we were there (in the high 80's and low 90's) our electric pedestal showed readings between 110 and 115 volts which was constantly cutting off our air conditioners," warns Nancy W.
Site selection: Choose carefully at Lakeside Camping based on your RV size. "The sites are extremely small had a 42 foot fifth wheel and took me 15 minutes to get set so I could disconnect. Good thing there was no one next to me on both sides so I had room to move around otherwise I would've never made it in there," cautions Ronald C.
Electrical hookups: Many campgrounds offer limited service. At Belview Campground, "We got space 14 which is an easy drive through site for beginners like us. The bench around the fire ring and the spacing between other sites where great," notes Larry T.
