Camping near Green Mountain & Finger Lakes National Forests

Camping near Green Mountain & Finger Lakes National Forests, Vermont, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails around the area. At Gifford Woods State Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "There is no shortage of hiking trails in and around the park, including the AT that runs right through the park." The trails offer stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
• Fishing: Enjoy some fishing at Emerald Lake State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "Great hikes and fishing!" This campground is perfect for families looking to spend a day by the water.
• Swimming: Take a dip at Branbury State Park Campground, where one reviewer noted, "The day use section has a wonderful beach with a swimming area." It's a great spot to cool off during the summer months.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers. A visitor at Quechee State Park Campground said, "They have very clean bathrooms and showers." This attention to cleanliness makes for a more enjoyable stay.
• Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer ample space between sites. A camper at Moosalamoo Campground mentioned, "Sites are generously spaced out," which allows for privacy and a more relaxed camping experience.
• Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the helpfulness of the staff. At Quechee-Pine Valley KOA, one family noted, "The owners were very helpful, meeting all of our needs promptly and always with a smile." This kind of service can make a big difference in your camping experience.

What you should know:

• No Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Emerald Lake State Park Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A camper pointed out, "No hot water at the sinks," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
• Coin-Operated Showers: Be ready to bring quarters for showers at places like Gifford Woods State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Showers were fine. 50 cents for 5 minutes," so plan accordingly.
• Wildlife Awareness: Campers should be cautious about wildlife. A reviewer at Gifford Woods State Park Campground noted, "There has been an increase in Black Bear activity," so it's important to store food properly.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Campgrounds with Amenities: Look for campgrounds that offer family-friendly activities. At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, a family shared, "The lake and beach is lovely, clean, and the water is warm and clear." This makes for a fun day out with kids.
• Lean-Tos for Rainy Days: Consider reserving a lean-to, especially if rain is in the forecast. A camper at Moosalamoo Campground mentioned, "The camp host was very helpful in pointing out the prime first come first serve sites," which can be great for families needing shelter.
• Plan for Quiet Hours: Make sure to respect quiet hours to ensure everyone has a good time. A visitor at Rogers Rock Campground noted, "This was a huge issue because the campers next to us were partying," so be mindful of noise levels.

Tips from RVers:

• Big Rig Friendly Sites: Many campgrounds, like Quechee State Park Campground, are big rig friendly. A camper mentioned, "The sites are nicely spaced and seem to accommodate big rigs rather well," making it easier for larger RVs to navigate.
• Check for Dump Stations: Ensure the campground has a sanitary dump station. A visitor at Emerald Lake State Park Campground noted, "There is a spacious dump site if needed," which is essential for RVers.
• Cell Service Considerations: Be aware that cell service can be spotty in some areas. A camper at Gifford Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "The (AT&T) cell phone reception was pretty good, but could be slow at times," so plan your connectivity needs accordingly.

Camping near Green Mountain & Finger Lakes National Forests, Vermont, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying the great outdoors, there's something for every camper to enjoy.