Cabin accommodations near Jay, Vermont range from rustic to well-appointed structures set within the Green Mountains at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-80°F during day and 50-60°F at night, with higher humidity levels from June through August. Winter cabin rentals often face below-freezing temperatures with significant snowfall common from December through March.
What to do
Swimming access: 5 minutes from camp: Lake Carmi State Park Campground offers multiple swimming areas with a rocky shoreline. "We were there during Covid and they did a great job spreading everything out and setting visitor expectations to follow the safety guidelines. We enjoyed biking, hiking, campfires, etc.," notes one camper who visited with family.
Boat rentals: Kayaks and canoes available: Little River State Park Campground maintains boat access points for water recreation on the reservoir. "Canoeing or kayaking on the lake is great and there are paddle only sites available. Some of the best sites are up on a bluff with views over the lake a towards sunrise," says a regular visitor.
Mountain access trails: Multiple trailheads: Smugglers Notch State Park Campground serves as a gateway to extensive hiking networks. "You are minutes from some amazing hiking, which is great when you don't feel like driving long distances after a day hike," explains one reviewer who appreciated the location.
What campers like
Riverside cabin sites: Limited but popular: Brewster River Campground features lean-to cabins beside moving water. "My husband and I stayed in the lean-to with our two toddlers. It has 3 walls and netting on the fourth. Inside there are two queen sized platforms and it is right on the river," describes one family who enjoyed the setting.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening: Brighton State Park Campground offers opportunities to spot local wildlife from cabin sites. "Love listening to the loons in the morning. My boyfriend and I camp here on a yearly basis with his family," mentions one repeat visitor who values the natural setting.
Scenic lake vistas: Premium locations cost more: Grand Isle State Park Campground maintains waterfront cabin options with views. "This was our second visit, but first time in one of their prime lean-tos. Unforgettable views, clean and spacious facility, minutes to Burlington, VT," reports a camper who valued the premium location.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: May through October: Most cabins in the area close after Columbus Day weekend. One visitor notes about White Caps Campground, "The campground is cozy and clean. Visitors were very friendly and courteous. Hosts were welcoming, present, and kind."
Bathroom access varies: Check facility maps: Shared restrooms are standard at most locations. "The bathhouse in the second loop has a new bath house that is very clean and provides 3 toilets per gender and 4 unisex quarter operated showers," explains a visitor at Brighton State Park.
Reservation requirements: Book 2-3 months ahead: Mountain View Campground tends to fill quickly during peak season. "When we first pulled into this campground and saw how close our site was to our neighbors, we were a little dismayed. But it turned out we had a really pleasant stay at the campground and came to like all the amenities and people," advises a recent visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Two separate areas: Tree Corners Family Campground designs amenities specifically for families. "Massive campground made mostly for those with kids. 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," reports a family who appreciated the child-friendly options.
Beach sizes: Limited sand areas: Lake Carmi State Park beaches have certain limitations to consider. "The beaches were rocky and almost a mud/sand mix. The lake had green algae and we spotted several dead fish floating," noted one family who found the water access less ideal for children.
Quiet times: Strictly enforced 10pm: Most family-oriented cabins maintain noise policies. "Quiet time is 10pm but for the most part, people were pretty quiet and respectful long before 10pm," observed a visitor at Tree Corners, suggesting the atmosphere remains family-appropriate.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Measure beforehand: Knowing your space requirements is crucial when booking cabin or RV sites. "Our site (#103) was long enough to fit our rig but we had to squeeze the car in front. The site was level and all the hookups were well-placed and worked fine," reports a visitor to Mountain View Campground.
Limited cell service: Plan accordingly: Communication options vary significantly between properties. "Campground has no cell service and you have to pay for WiFi which is less than ideal," noted one camper at Tree Corners Family Campground, highlighting the need for advance planning.
