RV Camping near Green Mountain National Forest, VT

Green Mountain National Forest covers over 400,000 acres across central and southern Vermont, with elevations ranging from 600 to 4,000 feet. Camping options near the forest span across Vermont and into neighboring New York state, with most facilities open seasonally from May through mid-October. Winter camping is limited due to seasonal closures and mountain road conditions.

What to Do

River adventures: Jamaica State Park Campground offers excellent access to the West River, where visitors can enjoy water activities during scheduled dam releases. "Clean well kept level areas! Staff was friendly! Great hiking or biking along the West River!" reports Chris S. The park features a trail system leading directly to Hamilton Falls.

Historical exploration: Located near Brookwood RV Resort, Fort Ticonderoga offers educational experiences for history enthusiasts. "Fort Ticonderoga is a few miles to the north where you can explore history with re-enactors," notes Jean C., making this area ideal for combining camping with cultural excursions.

Gem mining: Kids particularly enjoy the hands-on activities at Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks. Krys M. shares, "Being a fan of gems, I definitely bought an embarrassing amount of dirt for the gem mining (Got some good finds, so worth it!)" This activity provides entertainment even during inclement weather.

What Campers Like

River access: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites. At Jamaica State Park Campground, M.A.D. P. notes, "We managed to get a prime leanto site right on the river. We were only there for an overnight but we will be back. The prime lean-to sites on the water are beautiful and spacious."

Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention bathroom and shower quality. "The bathroom facilities, while rustic, were clean," reports Jean C. about Brookwood RV Resort. Similarly, at Ledgeview Village RV Park, Lauren states, "Bathrooms very clean. Pool was nice. Campground nice for younger families."

Pet amenities: Lake George RV Park receives praise for its exceptional dog facilities. April L. highlights, "Best part- the 2 acre dog park with shaded seating for humans, bathrooms and a dog wash station." This makes the area particularly suitable for those traveling with pets.

What You Should Know

Seasonal operations: Most facilities have limited operating seasons. Jamaica State Park operates "May 12 to Columbus Day weekend," while Brookwood RV Resort runs "May 15-October 15." Plan accordingly as most campgrounds close completely during winter months.

Water conservation: Some areas face water challenges. Jean C. notes at Brookwood RV Resort, "With COVID-19 restrictions this year, the bathrooms are closed to those who have facilities in their RV. There's also a drought and they're on a well, so water conservation is essential."

Road conditions: Road noise can impact some camping experiences. Lauren from Ledgeview Village RV Park mentions, "Only downside was the road noise, our site was adjacent to the road and you could hear the loud noise of the tractor trailers all night. We camp in a pop up, I don't know if you would hear the noise in a trailer."

Connectivity challenges: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. Jeffrey B. observes at Lake George Schroon Valley Resort, "Right on the beautiful Schroon River and only fifteen minutes to Bolton Landing shops and restaurants. The downside is the noise from the Northway within earshot."

Tips for Camping with Families

Water activities: Families often appreciate accessible swimming options. Paul Q. from Lake George Escape Campground shares, "Love this place I've been here more then once twice with a tent and once in a cabin." The campground offers water activities for various ages.

Playground access: Dorset RV Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Great location near a fantastic quarry, country store, and Manchester shopping. The camp grounds were family friendly and quiet. They even had rabbits and chickens for the kids to enjoy," reports Rachelle S.

Hiking options: Jamaica State Park provides accessible trails. Chris D. explains, "We hiked the west river trail (which leads right out of the campground) to Hamilton falls which is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail which then leads up hill for another mile to the falls."

Safety considerations: Parents should be aware of natural hazards. Chris D. warns, "People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls," referring to Hamilton Falls near Jamaica State Park.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: RV campgrounds near Green Mountain National Forest vary in site size. At Lake George RV Park, Debbie W. advises, "Our site was one of the largest sites we've ever stayed in. The sand/dirt was a bit of a nuisance but not a deal breaker."

Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds present maneuvering difficulties. Katie E. cautions about Dorset RV Park: "Larger rigs might want to avoid loop 6-14, especially for sites 8-12. Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver."

Leveling preparation: Bring appropriate equipment for uneven sites. Nancy W. observes at Dorset RV Park, "Our site was level but some definitely were not," highlighting the importance of bringing leveling blocks.