Vermont offers several year-round camping options around Essex Junction, with seasonal variations in availability. The region sits at elevations between 200-500 feet, with local rivers and Lake Champlain influencing the camping environment. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer camping brings temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season.
What to do
Rail biking adventures: Located near North Hudson, Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks offers access to unique rail biking opportunities. "Close to beautiful hiking, lake activities and rail bikes. We can't wait to come back!" notes one visitor. The train-themed campground even offers mini train rides for children.
River access activities: Brookside RV Camping provides waterfront camping with electric hookups only. "This is a great spot to stop for a night with your RV and enjoy the river for a night. Easy to get to, just off of a one-way paved road," reports a camper who enjoyed the riverside location.
Gem mining for kids: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly gem mining activities. "Being a fan of gems, I definitely bought an embarrassing amount of dirt for the gem mining. Got some good finds, so worth it!" shared one Spacious Skies visitor. This activity costs around $5-10 per bag of mining dirt.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the generous site sizes at Lone Pine Campsites in Colchester. "The sites are absolutely the biggest I've ever seen. The kids have a soccer field out in front of us to play in," writes one reviewer. This campground operates from May 1 to October 15.
Heated pools: Swimming amenities remain popular during Vermont's summer months. "Kids were happy with the heated pool, horse rides, and other activities," notes a visitor to Sugar Ridge RV Village. Another camper adds, "We stayed here and were VERY happy! Dog friendly, mini golf, heated pool, two playgrounds, and crafts and fun things for the kids!"
Private waterfall access: For those seeking natural water features, Davey Falls ADK offers unique amenities. "Amazing secluded creekside spot. Private waterfall, hiking trails," reports one visitor. This small campground maintains just two sites, allowing for a more private experience.
What you should know
Seasonal popularity factors: Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through mid-October. "This is a great campground and a great experience! The kids loved the gem mining and train rides!" notes a Spacious Skies camper. Plan accordingly as most facilities close for winter.
Site mapping issues: Some campgrounds have outdated or confusing site maps. A Sugar Ridge visitor advised, "Site map is oriented upside down and would be helpful if corrected and updated. Our site looked angled on map so thinking it would be easier to approach from a certain direction to back in, drove in as I needed but found site was perpendicular to road."
Shower facilities vary widely: While researching RV camping near Essex Junction, Vermont, pay attention to bathroom amenities. A visitor to Iroquois Campground & RV Park noted, "Staff very friendly, under new ownership, lots of seasonal sites and folks, fun activities, campers friendly and welcoming, roadway a little rough but overall ok."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for convenience. An RVer at Lone Pine Campsites shared, "We had one right next to the playground so our daughter could walk straight to it without having to cross a road. And speaking of playground, it was large and very nice."
Activity centers: Several campgrounds offer organized activities. "We truly enjoyed this park. Most sites are spacious and some good ones with privacy as well. You have walking trails, local stores, and a pond too!" notes a Sugar Ridge visitor.
Pet policies: If traveling with animals, verify pet rules before booking. At Smugglers Notch RV Village, one camper shared, "Husband and I took a trip with all 3 pups and I couldn't even tell you who had more fun! The doggos and husband absolutely loved being able to walk the beautiful trail in the cooler weather, especially the husky."
Tips from RVers
Terrain challenges: The rolling landscape affects campground layouts. "Entire location on rolling hills gives the feeling of a small campground but it is fairly large," notes a visitor to Sugar Ridge RV Village. Many sites require leveling equipment.
Seasonal site considerations: Many campgrounds feature a mix of overnight and seasonal sites. A reviewer at Shady Oaks Camping Resort observed, "Mostly Seasonal area with some overnight spots. No tents allowed. But pet friendly. Small but clean areas with electric at each site."
WiFi reliability: Internet access varies widely between locations. "Wifi at campsite was inconsistent and unreliable. Had to work from rec center and pool which was ok but not what we were told," reported an Iroquois Campground visitor. Verizon typically offers the most reliable cell coverage throughout the region.
