Recreational vehicle camping options near Franklin, Vermont provide access to Lake Champlain and the surrounding mountains. Most RV parks in this area operate seasonally, typically from May through mid-October when temperatures average 65-75°F during summer months. Winter closures are standard due to freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall that can reach 80 inches annually in this northern Vermont region.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Champlain: Burton Island State Park Campground offers shoreline access throughout the island for swimming and paddling. "The south tip of the island gets more wind, and therefore waves, which my children greatly enjoyed for swimming. The northern part has shale beaches, and a few areas of mucky/pebbly beaches," notes a visitor who explored the island trails.
Biking on local paths: Cyclists can access extensive trail systems from many campgrounds. A camper at Grand Isle State Park Campground observed, "You can bike directly from here all the way to Burlington, without ever getting back in your car! Take the bike ferry across a small section of Lake Champlain and keep on riding."
Golf access: Some RV parks feature on-site golfing amenities. A visitor to Apple Island Resort mentioned, "My husband enjoyed his time at the golf course," referencing the par-3 course available to campers as part of the resort facilities.
What campers like
Island camping experience: Burton Island State Park Campground provides a unique car-free environment. "It's like going to a tropical island without leaving Vermont. There are no cars on the island. You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans," explains one experienced Vermont camper.
Waterfront site options: Lake views rank high among camper preferences. At Grand Isle State Park, a reviewer noted, "We had a huge campsite that was comfortable for 3 tents and 6 adults. The restrooms/showers are vintage but clean and functional. Showers are coin operated."
Proximity to local food sources: Smugglers Notch RV Village offers convenient access to regional food options. "This hidden gem we discovered last season. So close to Stowe and a lot to do...and then you come back 'home' to relax and do nothing but enjoy the time away from everyday life," shared one visitor who appreciated the location.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most RV parks close during winter months. "We stayed here the last week of the season so things were very quiet," noted one camper at Apple Island Resort who visited during the final operating week in October.
Shower facilities vary: Some parks charge for shower use while others include it. At Lone Pine Campsites, a visitor noted, "This is the second most expensive month we have had as full time RVers. Beautiful park, great staff and decent facilities except the bathrooms. Why would you charge this much and then charge for showers?"
Site spacing considerations: Campgrounds differ significantly in site size and privacy. A camper at Lone Pine Campsites observed, "The sites are open, so no privacy and the sites are fairly small," which contrasts with another reviewer who stated, "The sites are absolutely the biggest I've ever seen. The kids have a soccer field out in front of us to play in."
Tips for camping with families
Island exploration for children: Plattsburgh RV Park offers family-friendly amenities. "With a pool, community center, mini golf, it is a great summer spot. Very close to Burlington VT and Canada there are many different hiking and adventuring options," noted one visitor describing the recreational options.
Recreation facilities: Many parks provide on-site activities for children. A camper at Lone Pine Campsites wrote, "Nice place to spend time, great people, weekend activities, and overall clean park with nice bath and laundry facilities."
Ferry experience: Children enjoy the boat ride to island campgrounds. At Burton Island, a visitor explained, "The ferry is $8 per person, with no extra charge for gear. They do charge $2 for bikes. If you want to use the ferry, but still want a kayak or canoe at the island, you have to paddle it across separately."
Tips from RVers
Electrical service consistency: During peak summer heat, electrical capacity can be stressed. At Iroquois Campground & RV Park, one RVer noted, "Wifi at campsite was inconsistent and unreliable. Had to work from rec center and pool which was ok but not what we were told."
Site leveling: RV pads vary in quality and level throughout the region. A visitor to Smugglers Notch RV Village shared, "They offer a variety of different sites to fit each campers needs, a beautiful well kept bath house and a small but well stocked store. The sites are good size and come with full hookups."
Site layout considerations: Some parks arrange sites in non-traditional patterns. At Apple Island Resort, a reviewer observed, "Sites are very large and the campground is laid out in a very attractive way rather than typical straight rows. Lots of walking paths."
