The Northeast Kingdom region offers camping options across rugged terrain ranging from 800 to 2,000 feet elevation. Campers in the Lyndonville area experience dramatic temperature swings, with July highs averaging 78°F and nighttime temperatures that can drop into the 40s even during summer months. Most sites operate from mid-May through mid-October with limited exceptions for winter camping.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Camp Kiki provides sites with immediate trail access to the Kingdom Trails network. "This place is amazing! We had two nights here and I wish we could have stayed longer. We could hop on our bikes and hit the trails from our site! Short walk or ride to town for food, music, and supplies," notes Cami B.
Wildlife observation platforms: Brighton State Park offers nearby viewing areas for local wildlife. "Near by are all sorts of awesome hiking trails. Boreal forest. THE best. Some of my favorite photos from hiking, and the trail names/maps are below. The Moose Observation Platform is no lie. We saw one, crossing the road right by it when we were about to give up," shares Tina D.
Lakeside recreation: White Caps Campground sits directly on Lake Willoughby with water activities. "The camp store was not big, but has a few items of need. My only fault to the campground is the showers have a coin system in place to use them," reports David S., who enjoyed the lake views.
River wading: Moose River Campground provides river access for cooling off. "A great peaceful campground along the Moose River, which at this point is smaller than its name implies. Depending on the water levels you can wade into the river and get your feet wet," mentions Katelyn T.
What campers like
Heated pools: Sugar Ridge RV Village features summer swimming options. "We stayed here and were VERY happy! Dog friendly, mini golf, heated pool, two playgrounds, and crafts and fun things for the kids! We truly enjoyed this park," writes India H.
Loon viewing opportunities: Maidstone State Park offers wildlife viewing from lakeside sites. "The lake had to be the most pure and pristine lake in Vermont. The loons are amazing," shares Kyle B. who appreciated the natural setting.
Private tent platforms: Camp Kiki provides raised sleeping areas at their tent sites. "Great little campground right on lake Willoughby. Little camp store & deli. Beach right across the road. Kayak & canoe rentals. Crystal clear lake to swim in," adds Jessi C., highlighting the camping setup.
Community events: The campsite near Lyndonville at Crazy Horse features organized activities. "We participated in the build your own sundae, which was delicious! Definitely going back again," notes Heather O. about the social aspects of camping there.
What you should know
Remote locations: Some campgrounds require significant travel from towns. "This campground is remote and it's about 45 min. to the nearest town. There is no cell service, even with a booster. The lake is wonderful," explains Miccal M. about Maidstone State Park.
Varying bathroom facilities: Quality differs between campground loops. "The facilities on the B loop are vintage 1950s, simple clean but not the same caliber as the facilities on A loop," notes a Maidstone camper.
Limited connectivity: Kingdom Campground offers newer amenities but limited communication options. "No cable, and only PBS over the air... Oh well, did I say this is great for a quiet getaway!" mentions Keith L., highlighting the digital detox aspect.
Seasonal operation limits: Most northeast Vermont camping occurs between May and October. "Spent two nights there. Should have stayed longer," writes Richard L., noting the short season at Moose River Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Sugar Ridge RV Village provides multiple children's attractions. "This campground has everything! Horse carriage rides, paved roads, 2 pools, playgrounds, mini golf, fireworks," explains Jen C.
Age-appropriate campgrounds: Some locations cater more to adults than children. According to Rick C. about Moose River Campground, "Not a great place for kids...no pool, arcade, etc.....but perfect for adults. Love it!"
Lean-to shelter options: Burke Campground offers covered structures for families. "Burke mountain lean-to #1. First of 2 lean-to. On the red trail...near the split for red-blue options. With fire pit," describes Alex R., noting these provide protection during Vermont's unpredictable weather.
Weekend activities: Crazy Horse Family Campground schedules regular family-friendly events. "Fun activities for the kids and adults. The reservoir right down the street and had great fishing and a good place to cool off with the dogs," mentions Camie S.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Crazy Horse Family Campground provides complete services. "The site was very leveled and cleaned. The campground has a wooded area which makes you feel you're camping in the forest," Mary O. explains.
Pull-through availability: Kingdom Campground offers easier access sites for larger rigs. "The site we stayed at has a few trees around it & a beautiful view in the back. Has a heated, salt water pool! I definitely plan on coming back next year," shares Heather O.
Site positioning: At Moose River Campground, site selection matters. "The pull thru sites are very close on one side as each RV pulls in the opposite direction; however, the sites are so long that if you pull up far enough you are not looking at your neighbor," advises Nancy W.
Off-season options: For self-contained RVs, Happy Hill Maple Farms offers basic sites. "Quiet spot just off the Hwy. You can hear traffic but not many cars out this time of year. They had a fire pit and picnic table. No electricity so we used the generator," notes Jim S.
