Montgomery Center's campgrounds sit at elevations ranging from 600 to 850 feet in Vermont's northern Green Mountains. The region sees considerable seasonal temperature variations with summer averages of 75-80°F during peak camping season and evening temperatures that can drop below 50°F even in July. Winter snowfall averages 80-100 inches annually, with camping options limited primarily to May through mid-October.
What to do
Hike nearby mountains: At Smugglers Notch State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple trails to Mount Mansfield. "We 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., who appreciated the park's proximity to trails.
Fish in local waterways: The region offers numerous fishing spots within 5-10 miles of most campgrounds. "Our site was long enough to fit our rig but we had to squeeze the car in front... One of the most popular amenities is the river access. You can rent kayaks and tubes from the store or bring your own and float down the river," explains Nancy W. about Mountain View Campground.
Explore area by bike: Paved and unpaved biking trails connect many local areas. "Great place to go if you're looking to go trail riding- trail is right across from the campground alongside the corn field," according to Mallory P.'s experience at Tree Corners Family Campground.
What campers like
Remote camping experiences: Green River Reservoir State Park Campground offers unique boat-in only camping. "We try and make our way north to Green River Reservoir every summer. It's a primitive park, perfect for paddling, wild camping, swimming, and watching wildlife. The reservoir is 653 acres with 19 miles of shoreline," shares Tara S.
Well-maintained facilities: Several campgrounds receive high marks for cleanliness. "The campground was nearly empty during our stay so it felt extremely private. No hookups are available but there is a dump station and a bathroom facility with paid showers," mentions Trip Over Life about Elmore State Park Campground.
Winter camping options: Some sites remain accessible in colder months. "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 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," explains Ed M. about Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal water quality issues: Some lakes experience seasonal algae problems. "The beaches were rocky and almost a mud/sand mix. The lake had green algae and we spotted several dead fish floating. It made me nervous about the water," reports Melissa L. about Lake Carmi State Park.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty connectivity. "For fellow work from homers - Strangely Verizon has strong signal but bandwidth issues/very slow to stopped at times - not just me but confirmed by office rep. AT&T works better," notes Ted D. about Prouty Beach Campground.
Shower facilities vary widely: From coin-operated to free, shower quality differs between sites. "The one closest to us was very clean. Three stalls and one shower. Cold water only at both the sinks and the shower. The showers do take quarters and although you get five minutes for each quarter, it was quite possibly the wimpiest shower I've experienced in quite some time," describes Lee D. about Lake Carmi State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Seek out child-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds focus heavily on family activities. "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.," says Mallory P. about Tree Corners Family Campground.
Consider noise levels: Family-friendly doesn't always mean quiet. "All about the family, from the owners to the guests family friendly first," notes Pete Q. about Tree Corners Family Campground, highlighting the bustling atmosphere that some families may prefer.
Look for educational opportunities: Many campgrounds offer ranger programs. "The ranger programming was exceptional, as are the views and the nearby areas for hiking and backpacking," shares Harry H. about Smugglers Notch State Park.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many campgrounds have limited large-rig capacity. "Beautiful setting on a lake nice sites, many with lean tos. The only major drawback is lack of cell service & power... you can fill up the camper with water on the way in but no sites have any hookups. And there are few that are big enough for large rvs," advises Jessi C. about Lake Carmi State Park.
Consider proximity to Vermont attractions: Some campgrounds serve as excellent base camps. "If you want to visit Stowe, VT, this is a great place to camp. It's also only an hour from Burlington, so this could be a good home base for visiting there," recommends Michelle C. about Mountain View Campground.
Reserve dog-friendly sites early: The limited number of pet-friendly campgrounds near Montgomery Center book quickly. "We camped here with our dog. It was wonderful minus the noise of other campers," mentions Elisha L. about Lake Carmi State Park, one of the dog-friendly options in the area.
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