Central Vermont offers excellent yurt camping opportunities around Forest Dale, making it popular for three-season outdoor stays. The region sits at the base of the Green Mountains, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,500 feet across the camping areas. Weather conditions from May through October typically include daytime temperatures between 60-80°F, with cooler evenings requiring extra layers even during summer months.
What to do
Hiking from campgrounds: The Appalachian Trail passes directly through Gifford Woods State Park, providing access to notable viewpoints. "For a shorter or less-intensive hike, walk about 2.5 miles to the Deer Leap Overlook for some incredible views of the mountain ranges nearby," notes Kyle R., who rated the experience 5 stars.
Paddling options: Little River State Park offers reservoir access with boat-in campsites. "There are many beautiful backcountry campsites right on the water only accessible via the water. Great local overnight spot with flat tenting, privies, and picnic tables," explains Caitlin M. The park maintains several paddling routes ranging from 1-4 miles.
Early morning activities: Mountain hiking provides cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. "My favorite part about camping here is getting up early and hiking the short trail to the top for a spectacular sunrise," shares a visitor at Mount Philo State Park. Most campgrounds recommend starting summit hikes before 9:00 AM to avoid afternoon heat.
What campers like
Small, quiet campgrounds: Half Moon Pond State Park receives praise for its intimate setting. One camper notes, "The park is small, quiet and very well cared for. Restrooms are modern and clean. Everyone seems to adhere to quiet hours so it was easy to get a good night's sleep." Sites typically accommodate 1-2 tents or a small trailer.
Yurt accommodations: TentinADK and similar sites offer canvas structures with wooden platforms for more comfortable "glamping" experiences. These structures typically include raised beds, electricity, and sometimes small cooking facilities. "Sites are large, private, and wooded, and there are clean restrooms with hot showers," mentions a visitor about the camping facilities.
Well-maintained facilities: Button Bay State Park receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "Bathrooms are clean, facilities are great. Easy access to the lake," reports Ian P., who gave the park 5 stars. Most state parks in the region provide quarter-operated showers ($0.50-$0.75 for 5-7 minutes).
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have poor or non-existent connectivity. At Lake Bomoseen KOA, a visitor reported, "There is NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect." Consider downloading offline maps before arrival.
Limited availability: Most yurt camping options near Forest Dale book quickly. "This is a popular camp ground so reserve as early as 11 months before arrival," advises a camper at Emerald Lake State Park. State park yurts and canvas structures typically require reservations 6-12 months in advance.
Weather preparation: Vermont evenings cool significantly even in summer. "There is no heating in most yurt structures, so pack appropriate sleeping gear for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 40s even in July," notes a regional camping guide. Most yurts provide only basic shelter without climate control.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: State parks offer organized activities for children. At Quechee State Park, "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)," reports Jen B. Programs typically run on weekends during peak season.
Swimming options: Several parks maintain beaches with varying facilities. "There is a pool for swimming, paved roads are good for bikes & scooters, pavilion for activities, lake for swimming & fishing and hiking trails," explains Lacy C. about Button Bay State Park. Most swimming areas are open from 10:00 AM until sunset.
Site selection matters: For families with small children, look for level sites away from water edges. "Look carefully at the map when choosing your site. Many of them are near the main road," advises Jean C. about Rogers Rock Campground. Families typically prefer sites within 100-200 feet of bathrooms but not directly adjacent.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most yurt camping areas near Forest Dale offer few services for RVs. "There is a dump station and spacious dump site if needed," notes one camper at Quechee State Park, though most locations lack electric or water connections at individual sites.
Accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult entry points. "The campground is small, quiet and very well cared for...a little tight for our 36ft 5th wheel but managable," reports Dave S. about Lake Bomoseen KOA. Many Forest Dale area campgrounds limit RV length to 30 feet or less.
Seasonal considerations: Most facilities operate with limited services in shoulder seasons. "They sell ice and firewood at the check in station," notes Chris A. about Quechee State Park, which like many Vermont campgrounds operates from mid-May through mid-October with reduced staffing in spring and fall.
