Landgrove, Vermont sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation in the Taconic Mountains region, experiencing cool summers and snowy winters with average January temperatures around 16°F. The surrounding Green Mountain National Forest provides backcountry camping options year-round, though most established campgrounds operate seasonally from late May through mid-October with limited winter accessibility.
What to do
Pond fishing and boating: Luzerne Campground offers calm water activities on its small lake where motorboats over 10HP aren't permitted. "Lover being on the far side of the lake with the private beach and no motorboats allowed. Tons of bike riding options. Great little lake for kayaking and fishing," notes camper Dan H. The pond is stocked with rainbow trout.
Mountain biking: The forest roads and trails throughout the region provide excellent mountain biking opportunities. Moreau Lake State Park Campground connects to over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails. "The park has a large number of hiking trails for every level of outdoorsman and the staff is friendly and helpful," mentions Robert L. in his review.
Winter recreation: While most campgrounds close after October, the surrounding trails transform for winter sports. "[Moreau Lake's] hiking trails become nice XC skiing trails," shares Amber A. Many locals recommend snowshoeing the same trails used for hiking during summer months when sufficient snow accumulates.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Branbury State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its forested campsites. "We stayed in a wooded area surrounded by large rocks my daughter could climb on," writes Desiree V. The campground features lean-to structures for extra protection from elements.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathhouses and grounds. "The bathrooms were always clean and well maintained. Park staff very friendly!" notes J L. about their stay at Branbury State Park. The composting toilets receive positive reviews despite being rustic.
Water access: The proximity to swimming areas appeals to summer visitors. "Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night!" shares Nicole E. about Branbury State Park. Multiple campgrounds feature beaches with designated swimming areas, though most lack lifeguards outside peak season.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: While horse camping options near Landgrove are restricted, Luzerne Campground offers some accommodations. "The only campground in all of New York that acquires to house back riders. There are campsites that also come with stalls for your horse!" reports Brittnay B. Call ahead to reserve equestrian sites, which are limited and fill quickly.
Bear activity: Wildlife precautions are essential when camping in this region. "There are bears in the area, so be aware and store all food properly," warns Lisa S. about Branbury State Park. Most campgrounds provide metal food storage lockers or recommend hanging food supplies from trees away from sleeping areas.
Seasonal operation: Nearly all campgrounds follow similar operational calendars. "We showed up on a busy Memorial Day weekend without reservations and the staff was kind enough to give us their last leanto," shares M.A.D. P. about Branbury State Park. Most facilities close by mid-October and don't reopen until late May.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Tippicanoe Campground offers family-friendly water features. "Very few tenting, mostly RVs on the well laid out grounds where you are not far from the beautiful beach, trout stocked pond and all amenities," explains David G. Many families bring water toys and fishing equipment.
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain play areas for children. "There's a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits," describes J L. about Branbury State Park. Evening ranger programs operate during peak summer weeks at select locations.
Hiking difficulty levels: Assess trail ratings before taking children on hikes. "This place has access to some of the best hiking and paddling in the state," notes M.A.D. P. about the terrain around Branbury. For younger children, stick to trails designated as "easy" with distances under one mile and minimal elevation gain.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Moreau Lake State Park Campground offers electric connections but few full-service sites. "This is dry camping so there are no hook-ups but there are restrooms and shower. Both were clean but the shower fluctuated between lukewarm, hot, and warm during my shower," explains Nancy W. Many RVers recommend arriving with full water tanks.
Tight maneuvering: The wooded nature of local campgrounds creates challenges for larger rigs. "Our campsite was spacious but required some maneuvering to avoid scraping trees with our RV," reports Nancy W. about Moreau Lake. Sites accommodating units over 35 feet are limited and should be reserved well in advance.
Generator restrictions: Noise limitations affect power options at several campgrounds. "Generators are allowed but not too many people were using them. The few other campers around that used them were mindful of quiet hours," notes Nancy W. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM when generators cannot be operated.