Granville's location in central Vermont positions it at elevations around 1,000-1,500 feet, creating distinct seasonal conditions for campers. The surrounding Green Mountain National Forest experiences wider temperature fluctuations than coastal areas, with summer days reaching the 80s while nights can drop into the 40s. Local campgrounds feature numerous hiking connections to the Long Trail, Vermont's 272-mile footpath that traverses the main ridge of the Green Mountains.
What to do
Swimming holes access: At Moosalamoo Campground, trails lead to natural water features perfect for summer cooling. "Moosalamoo Campground is smack in the middle of the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area, in the Green Mountains of VT... Lots of great hiking accessible from the campground, or within a short drive. Silver Lake and Lake Dunmore are nearby. Both have beaches: Silver Lake is accessible only by foot, down a .6 mile trail from the parking area," explains Nancy M.
Brook fishing opportunities: The numerous streams near Austin Brook provide easily accessible fishing spots. Thomas and James S. note that "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings." The clear mountain waters contain native brook trout during spring and fall seasons.
Mountain biking trails: Several camping areas connect directly to bike-friendly paths. At Moosalamoo Campground, Jill B. mentions "awesome bike trails with smooth trail beds and nice rolling bumps. The kind campground hosts can tell you all about the hiking and biking trails within Mossalamoo National Forest."
Star gazing: The remote location offers minimal light pollution for astronomical observation. Alan from Moosalamoo Campground recommends: "At night, you can go out to the bicycle pump track and lay a blanket on the grassy hill against the track and look at stars in COMPLETE darkness."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Branbury State Park Campground offers well-separated camping areas. Nicole E. notes: "There was plenty of space between sites so it didn't feel like you were on top of each other. Bathrooms are flushing compost. However, there are only four showers for the whole campground."
Natural water sounds: Many campers appreciate the soothing sounds of flowing water. Sigrid O. at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 shares: "We were here on a Friday & Saturday nights. Friday night had the whole place to ourselves. Saturday night all spots filled. We had quiet and respectful neighbors... Gorgeous stream/river…love the river sounds."
Spacious sites: The area's campgrounds typically provide ample room. Catherine M. at Branbury State Park Campground observed: "I couldn't believe how large the lots were. While they arent super far from one another, they are large enough that they seem further than they are. Nice beautiful wooded area, we were able to put a tent and hang a hammock for sleeping."
Clean facilities: Despite being rustic, many sites maintain good sanitation standards. Lauren S. from Moosalamoo notes: "Surprisingly clean vault toilets. No showers. There are dumpsters on the way out for trash and recycling. I saw bear storage lockers but I did not use them as I had my bear keg with me."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some of the best places to camp near Granville, Vermont require appropriate vehicles. At Green Mountain National Forest FR207, Miccal M. warns: "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance. Views are spectacular, choose either sunrise or sunset and you should be able to get a site to fit your needs."
Seasonal closures and access: Most dispersed camping areas have limited seasonal availability. Phil J. reports from Green Mountain National Forest FR207: "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful. Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
Limited services: Cell coverage remains minimal and facilities are basic. Dana M. from Moosalamoo Campground shared: "Sites were gravel which helped keep the dog and van clean when we had a thunderstorm with lots of rain. Check in is a self service kiosk. The host campers were there to assist if needed and where very friendly. Pit toilets were very clean and for $15 a night, this campground is well worth the price!"
Bear awareness required: Proper food storage is essential when camping near Granville. Kyle B. from Silver Lake Campground advises: "We had a very relaxing and peaceful camping experience... it's a pack in pack out campground so only pack what you truly need for camping the comforts are more work then they're worth."
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with built-in activities: Chittenden Brook Campground provides natural entertainment options. James K. reports: "Great tent camping area with good privacy at sites. Would be tough for any but the tiniest RV. No water. Well maintained, and nice access to trails right from the campground."
Choose lakes over streams for swimming: Lakes provide safer water access for children. J L. at Branbury State Park Campground shares: "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits."
Plan for temperature swings: Even in summer, pack warm clothing for children. Nancy M. from Moosalamoo notes: "Moosalamoo Campground is smack in the middle of the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area, in the Green Mountains of VT. 18 campsites, 8 of which are first come, first serve. Ample toilets and potable water available. There is a grassy area in the center of the campground—great for kids, gatherings, etc."
Consider proximity to emergency services: Most campgrounds are 20-30 minutes from medical facilities. Shawn B. recommends Silver Lake: "This is one of our favorite places to camp in Vermont. The sites are fairly private without being built too close together. Lake is clean and has a great concrete dock that the kids love to jump off. They have boat rentals and nature tours on the lake led by the state park faculty."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for forest roads: The narrow, winding access roads limit RV size. Thomas R. explains about Moosalamoo: "The campsites are $15 per night and are very well spaced, probably 50 yards apart with lots of trees between, very private. Small campground, I think 19 sites, in one loop. Clean pit toilets and fresh water source. No firewood for sale on-site, but the campground manager told me about a place about 7 miles away that sells very good firewood for $4/bundle."
Choose perimeter sites for maximum space: When camping at established sites, the edge spots provide better turning radius. Melissa M. cautions about Green Mountain National Forest FR25: "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out. Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Water tank refills limited: Plan water usage carefully as refill points are scarce. Franklin R. from Moosalamoo Campground mentions: "This is pretty basic camping, there are the basic outhouse toilets, and parking for about 2 cars. There is also a few spouts to get some fresh water."
Avoid narrow forest roads during spring melt: Road conditions deteriorate significantly during mud season. Joann&WellsThePup I. from Green Mountain National Forest FR207 advises: "About 12 sites off National Forest Road 71. Beautiful area and very secluded. All have fire rings but that's about it. Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
