Winter camping opportunities around Middlesex, Vermont remain available in select areas when many traditional campgrounds close. Smugglers Notch State Park offers winter access to lean-to sites during off-season months at no charge with advance reservation by phone. The region experiences average January temperatures of 10°F to 25°F, with snow typically covering the ground from December through March.
What to do
Mountain biking from camp: Little River State Park Campground connects to extensive trail networks suitable for riders of various skill levels. "We tend to hang at the site more than the beaches as the beaches are very small and full of children. This is a great park to just relax," notes Hannah H., highlighting how the campground serves as a perfect base for local adventures.
Paddle to remote sites: Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites offers boat-in only camping for those seeking solitude. "These remote sites are so peaceful. Be sure to launch from cotton brook road if your site r11-27," recommends Julia S., who adds valuable access information.
Winter backcountry skiing: Smugglers Notch State Park Campground provides access to alpine terrain during winter months. "Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve and make sure you park in the allotted area. Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed and the area is not plowed," advises Ed M.
What campers like
Glacial pond serenity: Kettle Pond State Park Campground features remote campsites accessible by boat or trail. "I scouted this area a couple of years ago and stayed in one of the lean-tos, this is a great area in the winter when no-one else is around," shares Miccal M., who appreciates the solitude during off-peak seasons.
Historical exploration: Little River State Park offers trails connecting to historical sites. "The hiking trails are really good--actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," notes Rita M., describing family-friendly exploration opportunities.
Riverside primitive camping: Austin Brook provides no-fee dispersed camping alongside moving water. "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!" advises Thomas and James S., highlighting the importance of low-impact practices.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Expect minimal to no connectivity throughout the region's state parks. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," notes Michele S. about Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Winter camping preparation: Off-season camping requires specific gear and experience. "No facilities off season…Carry out all trash/waste. Right in the middle of great nordic and alpine backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. Silent and starry nights, just make sure you have the gear/experience and a warm sleeping bag," warns Ed M. about winter stays.
Reservation policies vary: Some private campgrounds have strict cancellation rules. Gold Brook Campground requires payment in full at booking, with different refund policies based on when reservations were made.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Ricker Pond State Park Campground offers gentle water activities suitable for all ages. "We visited here with our 5 kiddos for 2 nights late July 2016. The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water," shares Rita M.
Multi-use trail access: Several campgrounds connect to the Cross Vermont Trail system. "We took a half day bike trip on it one day to go to the town of Marshfield to visit Rainbow Sweets, home of some of the best French pastries in Vermont. We biked through marshland, seeing Great Blue Herons and other wildlife," reports a Kettle Pond visitor.
Weather preparation: Vermont weather changes quickly, especially in higher elevations. Pack layers and rain gear even during summer months when overnight temperatures can drop into the 40s.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most state parks offer primitive camping without utilities. Gold Brook Campground provides full hookup sites near Stowe. "Our site was level and extremely spacious, FHUs, and featuring a fire pit. There is a nice playground in the center and a creek that follows the tent sites," reports Kara W.
Size restrictions: Many forest roads have tight turns and limited turnaround spaces. "I had trouble finding a level spot. Minimal ATT reception but overall pretty area," notes Tim M. about dispersed camping options at Austin Brook.
Off-season considerations: Most RV campgrounds close by mid-October and don't reopen until mid-May. Winter camping with RVs is extremely limited in the Middlesex area.
