Vermont's Northeast Kingdom offers diverse glamping options close to Glover, Vermont, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet. The region experiences cool summer nights with temperatures often dropping into the 50s even in July. Local campgrounds frequently serve as bases for exploring Lake Memphremagog and the surrounding state forests where cell service can be limited or non-existent.
What to do
Hiking and trail exploration: At Smugglers Notch State Park Campground, campers can access extensive trail systems directly from their sites. "We love hiking and this sweet campsite is the perfect spot to start or end a hike. It's well kept, private, beautiful, and right in the mountains. Nearby waterfalls are lovely! We highly recommend it!" wrote Mackenzie B. The park connects to Mount Mansfield's trail network.
Paddling on quiet lakes: Glamping close to Glover, Vermont provides access to motor-restricted waters perfect for kayaking. At Ricker Pond State Park Campground, visitors enjoy a serene setting. "A quiet camp ground on Ricker Pond, a motor free pond, is a wonderful way to spend the weekend. The pond is serene and a great place to swim, paddle, explore, and fish," notes Hannah H. Boat rentals are available on-site for those without equipment.
Winter camping options: For cold-weather adventures, some sites remain accessible. "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 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," shares Ed M. about Smugglers Notch State Park. Visitors need to carry all supplies in and waste out during winter months.
What campers like
Lakefront accommodations: At Prouty Beach Campground, sites on the water are particularly popular. "We were lucky enough to get sites on a bluff. The sites are HUGE! Probably the biggest we have ever seen in our travels thus far. We were treated to gorgeous views as well as sunsets!" reports Bran P. The campground connects to a bike trail running through to Canada.
Remote natural settings: For those seeking luxury glamping near Glover, Vermont with privacy, Maidstone State Park offers exceptional seclusion. "The sites have enough space between them to give privacy, but you know you're not alone. The site was nice with some great rock features," notes Miccal M. The park sits approximately 45 minutes from the nearest town, making advance planning necessary.
Astronomy opportunities: Clear Northeast Kingdom skies provide excellent stargazing conditions. "Dog friendly and quiet campground with gorgeous views of the milky way galaxy," writes Kelli M. about Big Deer State Park Campground. The park's elevation and distance from major light sources create optimal conditions for night sky viewing.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from poor to non-existent throughout the region. "No cell service, even with a booster. The lake is wonderful," mentions Miccal M. about Maidstone State Park. At Prouty Beach, one reviewer noted, "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."
Remote location considerations: Many campgrounds require significant driving on rural roads. "This campground is remote and it's about 45 min. to the nearest town," explains a Maidstone State Park visitor. Bring all necessary supplies as restocking options may be limited.
Reservation requirements: Sites fill quickly during peak season. "I've been visiting Ricker Pond for nearly 20 years (except for the years that I don't book enough in advance and aren't able to secure a spot for my desired length of stay). My favorite lean to site is directly on the water, private, and fills up fast," advises Neena B.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options for children: Little River State Park Campground offers family-friendly features close to Glover glamping sites. "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--they're actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," shares Rita M.
Educational experiences: Historical sites embedded in hiking trails provide learning opportunities. "The park itself is quiet and heavily wooded with most sites being right on the water. You could explore the woods all day, cool off in the lake before dinner, and drift off to sleep listening to the calls of the loons," explains Danielle S. about Ricker Pond State Park.
Accommodations for various needs: Select sites based on proximity to amenities. "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," notes a Ricker Pond visitor, highlighting areas designed specifically for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection and maneuverability: At Lakeside Camping, RVers should carefully consider site dimensions. "The first thing that happened is you go over the train tracks to go to the office to register and you have to turn your rig around to go to Riverside which the sites are extremely small had a 42 foot fifth wheel and took me 15 minutes to get set so I could disconnect. Good thing there was no one next to me on both sides so I had room to move around otherwise I would've never made it in there," warns Ronald C.
Electrical considerations: Power reliability can vary in remote locations. "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," reports Nancy W. at Prouty Beach Campground.
Seasonal access limitations: Many Vermont sites have limited seasonal availability or reduced services in shoulder seasons. "The park website needs to be updated to accurately reflect the degree of electricity. Despite what the website says, all campsites have 50 amps," notes a Prouty Beach visitor, highlighting the importance of verifying current conditions before arrival.