Northern Vermont offers diverse RV sites near Johnson, Vermont during warmer months, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,000 feet. Seasonal availability typically runs May through October, with most campgrounds closing before the first snowfall. Temperature variations can be significant, with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and nighttime lows dropping to 50-60°F even in peak season.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Smugglers Notch RV Village provides easy access to numerous trail networks. "Very close to Smuggs and only a short but beautiful ride to Stowe," notes reviewer Alan B., who visits multiple times each season.
Golf courses: Apple Island Resort features a 9-hole par-3 golf course with putting green. "My husband enjoyed his time at the golf course," reports Stephanie H., who appreciated the recreation options during their visit.
Water recreation: RV camping near Lake Champlain offers paddling opportunities. At Apple Island Resort, one camper shared, "Across the street is a marina with rental boats/kayaks and a boat launch. We launched our paddleboard and kayak there but it was pretty mucky getting in and out of our boats."
What campers like
Large, level sites: Travelers appreciate the spacious sites at several campgrounds. At Lone Pine Campsites, Jennifer H. reported, "The sites are absolutely the biggest I've ever seen. The kids have a soccer field out in front of us to play in."
Clean facilities: Sugar Ridge RV Village maintains well-kept amenities. "Lots of great sites, clean, lots of amenities (almost everything) and activities," states Rick G., noting its popularity makes reservations sometimes difficult to secure.
Fall foliage viewing: The region offers spectacular autumn colors. Susan & Kevin at Apple Island Resort advise, "Visit this campground in the fall and experience quintessential Vermont in all its glory. The campground is nice. The people are friendly."
What you should know
Site orientation variations: Some campgrounds have unusual hookup placements. At Apple Island Resort, "The hook-ups at our site (11AD) were well-placed but the sewer pipe was high off the ground which did not let it drain even with a 'slinky.'"
Voltage fluctuations: During peak summer heat, some electrical services show readings that can affect air conditioning units and other appliances.
Cell service variability: Mobile reception differs between providers and locations. At Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground, a camper noted, "Decent cell phone signal (Verizon)," though this varies throughout the region.
Limited dump station access: Smaller facilities like Brookside RV Camping have electric hookups but no dump stations, requiring planning for longer stays.
Tips for camping with families
Activity centers: Look for campgrounds with dedicated recreation facilities. Sugar Ridge RV Village offers "Horse carriage rides, paved roads, 2 pools, playgrounds, mini golf, fireworks," according to Jen C., making it popular with families.
Playground proximity: Choose sites strategically located near play areas. At Lone Pine Campsites, one visitor explained, "We had one right next to the playground so our daughter could walk straight to it without having to cross a road."
Off-site adventures: Iroquois Campground & RV Park serves as a convenient base for exploring. "We whent her for our first stay in our class c motorhome and had a wonderful weekend they have a beautiful pond and its peaceful environment great for families," shares reviewer Shelly.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Study the campground map carefully before booking. "Study the sites carefully because our 'premium view site' looked into a boulder. If you squinted and closed one eye you could a piece of the lake out of one sliver of our windshield," advises one Apple Island Resort camper.
Power adapter needs: Verify electrical service type before arrival. At Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground, "Family staying next to us found their site had 50 amp service not the expected 30 amp and they needed to borrow an adapter cord."
Navigation challenges: Access to some campgrounds requires careful planning for larger vehicles. Brookside RV Camping accommodates only smaller RVs with its limited space. "This is a great spot to stop for a night with your RV and enjoy the river for a night. Easy to get to, just off of a one-way paved road," notes Miccal M.