Northern Vermont's Jay Peak region offers varied camping experiences in the Green Mountains, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,800 feet. The camping season extends from mid-May through mid-October, with peak temperatures in July averaging 75-80°F during the day and 55-60°F at night. Winter camping opportunities exist but require specialized cold-weather gear and advanced preparation.
What to do
Hiking access: Smugglers Notch State Park Campground provides direct access to Mount Mansfield's trail system. "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!" notes Mackenzie B.
Winter activities: The Jay Peak area transforms in winter, with limited off-season camping available. Ed M. shares about Smugglers Notch: "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. Right in the middle of great nordic and alpine backcountry skiing and snowshoeing."
Kayaking and tubing: Water recreation extends beyond swimming at many campgrounds. Mountain View Campground offers river access with equipment rentals. Jason D. notes it has "Great car accessible tent sites right on the water and plenty of amenities that the kids will love. We'll stocked camp store and two pools."
What campers like
Remote camping: Green River Reservoir State Park Campground offers boat-in only camping for those seeking seclusion. "I love this location because you have to paddle out to a site for camping. It's private, quiet, and really gives you that 'forest bathing' escape. There is a lot of beautiful wildlife, and they do an amazing job at preserving the sites," reports Mackenzie B.
Proximity to town: Some campers appreciate the balance of nature and conveniences. Prouty Beach Campground offers town accessibility. Bran P. states, "You can ride your bike to Canada or into town and see the small town community. Wonderful place to ride bikes and watch the sunset."
Pristine facilities: Clean facilities rank high with campers in the region. "Pristine facilities, private camp sites and a beautiful area. Smuggler's Notch is close enough to Stowe to not be a hassle to drive to, but far enough away that it's quiet and remote," mentions Ben C. "The staff was helpful and very good about controlling excessive noise from other sites."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. Jessi C. notes at Lake Carmi State Park Campground: "Beautiful setting on a lake nice sites, many with lean tos. The only major drawback is lack of cell service & power... you can fill up the camper with water on the way in but no sites have any hookups."
Reservation timing: For prime camping spots, especially during fall foliage season, advance planning is essential. Some campgrounds fill months ahead, particularly for weekend dates in September and October.
Site sizes: RV campers should verify site dimensions before booking. At Lake Carmi, Jessi C. mentions "there are few that are big enough for large rvs." Sites at most state parks accommodate smaller rigs but may present challenges for vehicles over 30 feet.
Tips for camping with families
Amenities to look for: Family-friendly campgrounds in the region often include recreational facilities. Sara M. describes Mountain View Campground as having "amenities galore, and a great camp store. Visited in early October and was not disappointed."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer supervised swimming areas, though water quality can vary seasonally. Melissa L. cautions about Lake Carmi: "the beaches were rocky and almost a mud/sand mix. The lake had green algae and we spotted several dead fish floating." Consider alternative swimming options during algae bloom periods.
Primitive camping considerations: When booking primitive sites with children, check bathroom proximity and water access. At Tree Corners Family Campground, Mallory P. notes they have "two separate pools and hot tubs for kids and adults. Tons of other activities for kids- splash pad, water slides, playground, basketball court, etc."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service can be limited during peak summer heat. Nancy W. experienced issues at Prouty Beach: "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."
Seasonal considerations: RV camping is primarily a warm-season activity in the region. Most campgrounds with RV accommodations operate from mid-May through mid-October, with full hookups available at private campgrounds like Mountain View, which one camper describes as having "updated with a new laundry room and shower house. There are 2 pools (one for adults only) and a hot tub."
Site layout: Review site maps carefully before booking. Michelle C. notes of Mountain View Campground: "The sites are gravel and seem pretty level." Many campgrounds in the region have pull-through sites for easier access, though backing in remains common at state parks.
