Vermont's state parks offer comfortable glamping options near Manchester Center, with sites typically at higher elevations than surrounding areas. Most glamping accommodations in this region sit between 1,300-2,300 feet above sea level, providing cooler temperatures in summer. Woodford State Park stands as Vermont's highest elevation campground at 2,360 feet, which creates a distinctly different climate than lower elevation camping areas.
What to do
Hiking on the Appalachian Trail: At Gifford Woods State Park Campground, visitors can access the famous Appalachian Trail which runs directly through the park. According to one camper, "While on a 4 state section hike I traveled by foot through this park. The ranger gave me an ice cream, pointed me to the showers and then chatted with me for an hour about my hike so far."
Explore old ski area ruins: The trails near luxury camping sites often include interesting historical features. One reviewer at Gifford Woods noted, "It's also fun to explore the relics of the old Hogback Ski Resort. They are rested remnants of the ski lifts and warming huts, and they are slowing crumbling back to the earth."
Winter camping options: Some glamping facilities near Manchester Center remain open beyond the typical Memorial Day to October season. A camper at Lake Lauderdale Campground mentioned, "The campground is acres and acres of beautiful land. The management is very friendly. They really want you to have a good time."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: The camping areas near Manchester Center typically offer good separation between sites. At Woodford State Park Campground, a reviewer noted, "The sites are nice and private. The views on some of the sites to the lake are beautiful. The grounds and facilities are well kept."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many glamping sites near Manchester Center provide chances to see and hear local wildlife. A camper at Woodford State Park reported, "We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning."
Trolley transportation: Some larger campgrounds in the region offer convenient transportation options. A visitor to Lake George RV Park shared, "There is a trolley to get around the camp ground as well as to the local outlets. Fun family activities and quite a few pools to relax in."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: The quality of shower and bathroom facilities differs significantly between glamping sites. At Molly Stark State Park Campground, a camper reported, "Bathrooms are super clean. Staff is friendly. Seasoned firewood available for purchase ($6 a stack)."
Reserve well ahead for lean-tos: The sheltered accommodations book quickly. "This campground offers great hiking and a casual feel to it. Good for passer byes or staying the weekend to go fishing. Again on Route 9 so not the quietest campground, but there are back sites that offer some more privacy if wanted. Lean-tos are the best part!"
Weather preparedness is essential: The mountain environment can bring unexpected conditions. A visitor observed, "We camped here with our dog on a tent site in camping area B. I really appreciated the VT state parks interactive campground map, which allowed us to see the sites from home and choose the one that would suit us best."
Tips for camping with families
Choose specific loops for quieter stays: Some campground sections are better suited for families seeking peace. At Moreau Lake State Park Campground, a visitor advised, "The road to our campsite was paved and in good shape but there were a few tight spots because of the trees that make it tricky for a big rig (Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs)."
Consider dog-friendly amenities: Pets are welcome at most glamping sites, with some offering special facilities. One camper noted, "Lake George rv park great week! The campground is so clean and nice! Perfect for the dogs with best dog park I ever saw."
Look for organized activities: Some campgrounds provide structured programming for youth groups. At Emerald Lake State Park, a camper shared, "We camped for two nights in Lean-tos with 20 Girls and Leaders. It's a great place to bring a Troop and use the lake and trails for badges plus cooking badges as well."
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling before booking: RV sites in the Manchester Center area often require leveling equipment. At Caton Place Campground, one RVer explained, "Camped here Labor Day Weekend in our 40 ft 5th wheel. We had a pull thru site. Easy to drive into the campground and into the site."
Access roads can be challenging: The mountain terrain creates some difficult approaches. A visitor warned, "The roads aren't wide enough to take a motorhome into. The pull through site is not level and is barely long enough to fit my 43' rig (with my motorcycle lift)."
Seasonal site differences: Glamping options near Manchester Center vary dramatically by season. An experienced camper advised, "The sites are huge. Plenty of room for our RV, and small tent. Private. Can't say enough about the pool. We had multi-generations camping."
