Glamping near Montgomery Center, Vermont offers sites on a working maple farm where visitors can experience Vermont's agricultural heritage with comfortable canvas accommodations. Located in northern Vermont at 1,200 feet elevation, the region experiences cold winters with heavy snowfall and mild summers with temperatures averaging 75°F. Most glamping sites maintain seasonal operations due to Vermont's climate, typically closing from late October through mid-May.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Smugglers Notch State Park offers direct access to the Mount Mansfield trail system. "You are minutes from some amazing hiking, which is great when you don't feel like driving long distances after a day hike," notes Ben C. The park serves as an ideal starting point for exploring Vermont's highest mountain.
Kayaking on Lake Memphremagog: Visitors can rent kayaks and canoes during summer months to explore the water. "You can ride your bike to Canada or into town and see the small town community. Wonderful place to ride bikes and watch the sunset," says Bran P. about the lake areas near Newport.
Winter exploration: The region transforms during winter, with some sites offering unique off-season opportunities. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March of 2019. Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve," shares Ed M. "Right in the middle of great nordic and alpine backcountry skiing and snowshoeing."
What campers like
Private, wooded settings: Many glamping sites feature filtered views through trees that create a sense of seclusion. "Our site, like all others, was generous in size and a back-in site. Most sites don't have clearly defined camper pads, and the surface is grass/dirt. There are plentiful trees, so each site has at least some shade and some are very shaded," explains Lee D.
Spacious sites: Singing Wood Farm offers glamping with good separation between accommodations. "Sites are set up with picnic or other small tables, and randomly spread out across the field. There is good distance between sites, but all other sites are within view," notes Heather C. The property also features "access to water via a hose, and a very large flower garden."
Local amenities: Lake Carmi State Park Campground provides essential facilities for glampers. "A large wooden picnic table and fire ring complete the site," writes Lee D. "The one closest to us was very clean. Three stalls and one shower." The park maintains the grounds meticulously, as another reviewer notes, "VT state does a great job of keeping the campground very clean."
What you should know
Accessibility issues: Some glamping sites require special transportation arrangements. Burton Island State Park Campground requires planning for arrival. "Getting to the island was the hardest part. Depending on the weather, the 3/4 mile crossing from Kamp KilKare State Park can be rough and windy," explains Rita M. "The Island Runner Ferry is likely the best option for most people... The ferry is $8 per person, with no extra charge for gear."
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be unreliable at many glamping sites. "No cell service" is mentioned by multiple reviewers, with Kate R. noting this limitation despite otherwise "clean bathrooms." Plan accordingly by downloading maps and information before arrival.
Seasonal water conditions: Some water features have variable conditions. "The beaches were rocky and almost a mud/sand mix," mentions Melissa L. Another reviewer adds, "It was very clean and pleasant, water was great in the early summer when we went, loved it for kayaking."
Tips for camping with families
Campground programming: State parks often offer educational activities for children. "The ranger programming was exceptional," Harry H. writes of Little River State Park Campground, adding that the "small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water."
Beach access: Several glamping locations provide swimming areas perfect for families. "The campsites are beautifully situated with easy access to the water. The campground is very clean and the staff are friendly and helpful," notes one visitor. Another adds, "We enjoyed biking, hiking, campfires, etc. and everyone was so nice and helpful for us, especially since we were first timers."
Kid-friendly amenities: Tree Corners Family Campground caters specifically to families. "Massive campground made mostly for those with kids. They have two separate pools and hot tubs for kids and adults. Tons of other activities for kids- splash pad, water slides, playground, basketball court, etc," explains Mallory P., though she notes "you have to pay for WiFi which is less than ideal."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Glamping accommodations at some sites may require adjustments. "The sites in the field are generally un-level, and we had to really work to level our trailer," reports Heather C. about Singing Wood Farm. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for any wheeled accommodation.
Hookup availability: Maple Grove Campground offers full-service sites for RVs near glamping accommodations. "RV sites are arranged around an oval. Pads are gravel. Because the loop is on a hill, some sites are not quite level, but only slightly," notes Lee D. "The spaces are nice sized with full hookups on most. All the lots are beautifully landscaped," adds Tara N.
Reservation timing: Book far in advance for prime glamping seasons. "Campsites at Burton Island book far in advance. When we booked our Labor Day weekend tent site back in March, there were only 2 leantos (out of 26) left and a handful of tent sites," shares Rita M. This advice applies to most glamping spots in the region during peak summer months.
