Campers searching for glamping near Marlboro, Vermont have numerous options in the southern Green Mountains region where elevations range from 1,000 to over 2,500 feet. This area experiences distinct seasons with winter temperatures often dropping below freezing and summer days reaching the 70s and 80s. The region features several state parks and private campgrounds where visitors can enjoy rustic or upscale glamping accommodations amid dense forests and mountain landscapes.
What to do
Hiking Mt. Olga trail: The trail system at Molly Stark State Park includes a 1.7-mile round trip hike to the Mt. Olga fire tower. "There's a fire tower at the top, which provides awesome views of the Green Mountains. 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," notes a visitor to Molly Stark State Park Campground.
Kayaking and canoeing: The Ashuelot River runs alongside Ashuelot River Campground, offering water recreation opportunities. One camper reports, "We took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit. We were able to enjoy a nice, slow drift around the campground."
Swimming and beach activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming options, including Emerald Lake State Park. A camper describes, "There's a small, sandy beach at one end of the lake, with a bath house and changing rooms nearby. Swimmers can swim out the a small island in the middle of the lake and check out the rope swing."
Exploring local towns: The Marlboro region provides access to several charming Vermont and Massachusetts towns. "We enjoyed a fun day at Mount Snow which is close by with restaurants and things to do in that area, as well as the fun town of Brattleboro in the other direction which is always a great place to visit," reports a visitor to Molly Stark State Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region are known for their well-maintained amenities. At Woodford State Park Campground, a reviewer noted, "Clean lodge (hostel) for hikers; access to a kitchen and showers as well." Another camper at Woodford added, "Bathrooms are plentiful and clean, hot showers for a small price. Beautiful clean swimmable lake with a walking trail around it."
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural setting and privacy at these campgrounds. A visitor to Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground shared, "Many of the sites (most of the ones on the periphery of the campground) are wooded and somewhat secluded, with 1-3 being the most secluded. We stayed in site 1, and we could barely see our neighbor's fire at night, because there were so many trees between us."
Wildlife viewing: The natural surroundings provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. A visitor to Molly Stark State Park mentioned, "It is well taken care of, just wish there were hiking trails directly available," while another camper at Woodford State Park noted, "We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning."
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer a quiet environment, despite being popular destinations. At Emerald Lake State Park, a camper commented, "The site was large and clean, and relatively quiet even though it was a holiday weekend. Hiking trails are steep, so prepare for a good workout."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most glamping sites near Marlboro operate on limited schedules. Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground runs from "mid May to mid October," while Emerald Lake State Park Campground operates "Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. At Savoy Mountain, "I had a flicking bar of coverage at the high point of the campground on Verizon, but all you MIGHT be able to do is text." Similarly, at Erving State Forest, there is "zero cell service (there is an operational pay phone at the showers) which is fine … but wished we knew ahead of time."
Reservation requirements: Popular sites book quickly, especially during peak season. For Emerald Lake, one visitor advised, "This is a popular camp ground so reserve as early as 11 months before arrival."
Weather variability: The mountain climate can change rapidly. At Woodford State Park (2,400 feet elevation), temperatures can be significantly cooler than surrounding lowland areas, often 5-10 degrees lower than nearby towns.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly sites: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families. "Perfect for families! There are tons of different types of campsites with either tent spots, lean tos, and a few (hard to get) cabins," mentions a visitor to Woodford State Park.
Consider site location carefully: At Emerald Lake State Park, a camper advises, "While there are trails down to the lake from the campground, none of the sites are waterfront, or even water view. In fact, many of them are perched on a steep ledge, making them a bit sketchy for families with kids. If you have little ones, check out the map before you reserve a site and find one on the opposite side of the ledge."
Plan for activities: Having options keeps children engaged. At Country Aire Campgrounds, a visitor reports, "This campground is family oriented. They have a pool they have games we even have a hayride pulled by a tractor."
Pack for variable weather: Mountain weather can change rapidly, so layers are essential even in summer months. Nighttime temperatures can drop into the 40s even during July and August.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. For Savoy Mountain, a visitor cautions, "Google Maps will often take you down a bumpy dirt road….stick to Rt 2 as long as possible if you're coming from that direction!"
Site size awareness: At Ashuelot River Campground, an RVer mentions, "Sites big enough for our 42' 5th wheel and 2 cars. Sites in the woods have water and 50 amp service, no sewer. Most of the open sites have 30/50 amp service with full hook-ups."
Limited hookup options: Many state parks offer minimal amenities for RVs. Woodford State Park has no hookups but does provide a dump station for waste management. Visitors should plan accordingly with full water tanks and empty waste tanks.
Consider elevation changes: The mountainous terrain means significant grades on some access roads, particularly to higher elevation campgrounds like Woodford State Park, which sits at over 2,300 feet above sea level.
