Camping near Jeffersonville, Vermont offers access to the Lamoille Valley region where elevations range from 500 to 4,395 feet at Mount Mansfield's summit. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing from November through March, with summer highs typically reaching 70-85°F. Most campgrounds in the area operate at elevations between 600-1,200 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night.
What to do
Hiking at Mount Mansfield: Smugglers Notch State Park Campground serves as an ideal basecamp for accessing Vermont's highest peak. "You are minutes from some amazing hiking, which is great when you don't feel like driving long distances after a day hike," notes Ben C., who appreciates the campground's strategic location.
River recreation: The Lamoille River provides swimming and tubing opportunities throughout summer months when water temperatures typically reach 65-75°F. At Mountain View Campground, "You can rent kayaks and tubes from the store or bring your own and float down the river. There are multiple spots where you can put in and float down a little ways before reaching the other access point," according to Nancy W.
Off-season winter camping: While most developed facilities close, some camping opportunities remain available in winter. At Smugglers Notch State Park, Ed M. reports: "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. No facilities off season...Carry out all trash/waste."
What campers like
Riverside campsites: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. At Mountain View Campground, "The campground is located right on the Lamoille River so you can wade, tube, fish, admire the view, or let your dog cool off," according to Nancy W.
Privacy between sites: Underhill State Park Campground offers a secluded camping experience. "This is the best of car camping - you get the feel of really being out in the woods, with your car a short distance away. They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff," notes Ali T., who appreciated the setup at campsite 6.
Primitive camping experiences: For those seeking a more rustic experience, certain campgrounds offer less developed accommodations. "Very primitive and quiet campground. Great staff and campsites. No shower but one of the best weeks I had camping in a while," writes Michael V. about Underhill State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal transitions: Most campgrounds transition quickly from peak season to closure. "We camped here last week in one of their shelters due to an impending storm," notes Kerry M. about Smugglers Notch State Park, highlighting the importance of weather awareness in late season.
Campground amenities vary significantly: While some campgrounds offer extensive facilities, others provide minimal services. Brewster River Campground in Jeffersonville offers "brand new toilets and provide hand soap, dish soap, and shower products," according to Kiarra M., who stayed in a lean-to with her family.
Advance reservations essential: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during foliage season. "Reserve early, as this place doesn't have a ton of sites and it folds up quickly!" advises Ben C. about Smugglers Notch State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: For families with children, accessible water features provide recreation opportunities. At Little River State Park, "the reservoir was a great place to relax after a day of hiking," according to Alison O.
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer nature programs. "The ranger programming was exceptional, as are the views and the nearby areas for hiking and backpacking," writes Harry H. about Smugglers Notch State Park.
Amenities for extended stays: Campgrounds with laundry facilities and showers can make longer family trips more comfortable. At Mountain View Campground, Nancy W. notes the "new bathhouse, laundry, playground, two swimming pools, hot tub, outdoor picnic pavilion, horseshoe pits, propane fill, well-stocked camp store with a great selection of local beer/cider, free 9-hole mini golf course, and 2 shuffleboard courts."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When choosing RV sites in Jeffersonville area campgrounds, location matters significantly. At Smugglers Notch RV Village, Alan B. reports: "They offer a variety of different sites to fit each campers needs, a beautiful well kept bath house and a small but well stocked store. The sites are good size and come with full hookups."
Connectivity issues: Internet access varies throughout the region. Smugglers Notch RV Village provides reliable connections according to Alan B., who notes "They also have great WIFI," an important consideration for remote workers or those needing to stay connected.
Limited large rig accessibility: Most campgrounds in the area have restrictions for larger recreational vehicles. At Mountain View Campground, Nancy W. advises: "The campground is located near the interstate for easy in and out but there are no pull-thrus so you will have to unhook no matter how long you are staying."
