Glamping near Eden Mills, Vermont offers a variety of accommodation options between 1,000-1,500 feet elevation in Vermont's rural northeastern region. The area experiences distinct seasonal variations with summer temperatures typically ranging 65-80°F and winter lows often below freezing. Local campgrounds maintain wooded sites that balance privacy with access to natural features while providing varying levels of amenities depending on the season.
What to do
Hiking at Smugglers Notch: Access trail systems directly from campsites that connect to Mount Mansfield's extensive network. "You are minutes from some amazing hiking, which is great when you don't feel like driving long distances after a day hike," notes Ben C. from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Pond exploration: Rent canoes or kayaks to explore motor-free waters that offer peaceful paddling experiences. "If you paddle or swim to the other side of the camp ground, there is a huge rock with a rope swing," shares Hannah H. about Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Winter activities: Experience off-season camping with access to backcountry skiing opportunities. "Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve and make sure you park in the allotted area. Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed and the area is not plowed," explains Ed M. about winter stays at Smugglers Notch.
Rail trail access: Bike along converted rail corridors directly from campgrounds. "We had our trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground," shares Emma B. from Ricker Pond State Park.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many glamping locations offer secluded sites despite proximity to amenities. "This campground is great. Nice and quiet. Campsites are well spaced. Some of the campsites on the outside ring you need to walk into (a very short distance), but it makes it feel very secluded and less like car camping," states Jess O. from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Proximity to attractions: Campgrounds provide convenient bases for exploring nearby towns and outdoor destinations. "We had easy access to hikes in Stowe, plus the Ben and Jerry's shop is about 20 minutes down the road!" reports Alison O. from Little River State Park Campground.
Lake and reservoir access: Water features enhance camping experiences with swimming and boating opportunities. "Staying at Ricker Pond was awesome. The pond is really nice especially since very few motor boats are on the pond. Mostly just kayaks and canoes which you can rent from the park," notes Rachel N.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities receive consistent positive mentions. "Pristine facilities, private camp sites and a beautiful area. Excellent showers (coin operated) and bathroom facility," shares Ben C. about Smugglers Notch.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites fill quickly, especially waterfront options. "Reserve early, as this place doesn't have a ton of sites and it folds up quickly!" advises Ben C. about Smugglers Notch State Park.
Seasonal limitations: Off-season camping requires additional preparation but offers unique experiences. "No facilities off season…Carry out all trash/waste. Right in the middle of great nordic and alpine backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. Silent and starry nights, just make sure you have the gear/experience and a warm sleeping bag," warns Ed M.
Cell service: Most rural glamping locations have limited connectivity. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," advises Michele S. from Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Water conditions: Lake and pond conditions vary throughout the season. "The lake bottom was murky sticky mud which is fine it's just not my favorite. My fiancé went swimming and got a leech or leech-like thing on his foot so swimming for him was pretty much over," shares Jennifer L. from Prouty Beach Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas 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," notes Mallory P. from Tree Corners Family Campground.
Camping loop selection: Certain campground areas are better suited for families with children. "The tent only loop is so private and perfect for kids biking and swimming. Nice pavilion and the pond was wonderful for canoes and kayaks," advises Rita M. about Ricker Pond State Park.
Ranger programming: Educational activities enhance family camping experiences. "We visited here with our 5 kiddos for 2 nights late July 2016. The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water. The hiking trails are really good," shares Rita M. from Little River State Park.
Nearby attractions: Plan day trips to local points of interest accessible from glamping locations. "This is a great place to camp. It was fairly priced and in a great location for visiting both Stowe and Burlington. The river was beautiful to walk by and our group had a great stay!" recommends Lindsay W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on specific RV needs and limitations. "For fellow work from homers - Strangely Verizon has strong signal but bandwidth issues/very slow to stopped at times - not just me but confirmed by office rep. AT&T works better and u can do WebEx's," advises Ted D. from Prouty Beach Campground.
Power considerations: Electrical capacity varies between campgrounds. "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. about Prouty Beach.
Site leveling: Terrain challenges affect setup at some locations. "Sites in the field are generally un-level, and we had to really work to level our trailer. While we were there, there were car campers, tent campers, and a class C rv, in addition to us in our travel trailer," notes Heather C. from Singing Wood Farm.
Campground layout: RV site arrangements impact privacy and convenience. "RV sites are arranged around an oval. Pads are gravel. Because the loop is on a hill, some sites are not quite level, but only slightly. The sites on the outside of the loop are more desirable," explains Lee D. about Maple Grove Campground.