Lake Carmi State Park sits at approximately 435 feet above sea level in northern Vermont, creating a natural boundary between the Champlain Valley and the Green Mountains. The park spans over 140 acres with both waterfront and wooded camping areas. Sites throughout the region typically remain open from mid-May through mid-October, with cooler evening temperatures even during summer months.
What to do
Outdoor activities in off-peak seasons: Lake Carmi offers excellent shoulder-season options. "We prefer shoulder-season camping! Our stay was very quiet during the week after Labor Day, but I imagine the vibe is quite different during summer weekends," notes a visitor to Lake Carmi State Park Campground.
Winter camping opportunities: Smugglers Notch provides free winter camping options. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March of 2019. Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve. Right in the middle of great nordic and alpine backcountry skiing and snowshoeing," explains an experienced winter camper at Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Biking access: The region offers extensive cycling routes. "There is a very nice bike trail that runs through the campground, to the city of Newport on one side and to Canada on the other!" shares a camper at Prouty Beach Campground.
What campers like
Private sites with natural separation: Many campgrounds feature well-spaced sites. "The sites are huge with plenty of shade... Our site, like all others, was generous in size. Most sites don't have clearly defined camper pads, and the surface is grass/dirt. A large wooden picnic table and fire ring complete the site," describes a visitor to Lake Carmi State Park.
Unique boat-in campsites: Some yurt camping near Enosburg Falls and surrounding areas requires water transport. "Four very nice remote campsites on the S.E. side of the island. Wake up to stunning sunrises and spectacular views of the Green Mountains," explains a paddler at Burton Island State Park Campground.
Proximity to hiking trails: Campers appreciate easy trail access. "Great little getaway. Campsites are well spaced. Some of the campsites on the outside ring you need to walk into, but it makes it feel very secluded and less like car camping," notes a visitor to Smugglers Notch State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal water conditions: Water quality can vary seasonally. "Although swimming is allowed, the 'beaches' are very small and there was a bacteria warning in place when we were there advising against swimming," reports a Lake Carmi visitor.
Shower facilities vary widely: Some campgrounds have basic facilities. "The showers do take quarters and although you get five minutes for each quarter, it was quite possibly the wimpiest shower I've experienced in quite some time," mentions a camper at Lake Carmi.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is unreliable throughout the region. "For fellow work from homers - Strangely Verizon has strong signal but bandwidth issues/very slow to stopped at times. AT&T works better and you can do WebEx's," advises a camper at Prouty Beach Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for alternative accommodations: Many sites offer yurt-style and cabin options near Enosburg Falls. "We camped here with our dog. It was wonderful minus the noise of other campers. If you come here to camp and plan to stay out late go to the office prior to leaving so you can get a pass to avoid a long trek to your campsite," advises a visitor to Lake Carmi.
Consider off-peak timing: Families often find quieter experiences during shoulder seasons. "Came here in the fall with some friends. Dog friendly, cool trails to walk on. The sites were very private. The sites and bathrooms were also VERY clean," says a camper about Lake Carmi.
Water activities for kids: Many sites have beach access. "We went with some friends and my girlfriend in July/August. Definitely a long weekend is needed depending on where you are coming from. Gave the feeling of being off the beaten path which was nice and relaxing," shares a Lake Carmi visitor.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Many campgrounds have limited services. "You can fill up the camper with water on the way in but no sites have any hookups. And there are few that are big enough for large RVs," cautions a visitor to Lake Carmi State Park Campground.
Leveling challenges: Sites may require equipment for leveling. "The 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 a camper at Singing Wood Farm.
Power stability issues: Some electrical services may be insufficient during peak demand. "Our electric pedestal showed readings between 110 and 115 volts which was constantly cutting off our air conditioners. At least the weather cooled off so the electrical grid was not as taxed," explains an RVer at Prouty Beach Campground.
