Dispersed camping near Morrisville, Vermont offers access to the Green Mountains region at elevations ranging from 700 to 4,300 feet. The camping season typically runs May through October, with temperatures ranging 45-75°F in summer and dropping to 30-55°F during fall. Winter camping options exist in limited locations with reduced services and require specialized cold-weather gear.
What to do
Rail trail biking: Little River State Park Campground provides convenient access to multiple trails including the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail. "This campground is easy to access... We had our trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground," notes Emma B.
Explore historic ruins: Several state parks contain hidden remnants of past settlements. "The hiking trails are really good--actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," writes Rita M. about Little River State Park Campground.
Winter activities: For cold-weather enthusiasts, some campgrounds offer winter access despite reduced services. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March of 2019. Free of charge during off season... 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," advises Ed M. at Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
What campers like
Secluded sites with views: Many campers appreciate the privacy found at certain campgrounds. "Some of the best sites are up on a bluff with views over the lake and towards sunrise," reports Miccal M. about Little River State Park Campground.
Off-grid tranquility: Several parks offer opportunities to disconnect completely. "This is a small campground, really it's an extension of Stillwater just up the road. For Vermont, these sites felt close, but we could still get privacy... We had 1 bar of AT&T service," notes Miccal M. at Big Deer State Park Campground.
Year-round yurt camping: Morrisville, Vermont area provides yurt camping options through multiple seasons. North Beach Campground supports this alternative accommodation style. "We stayed 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. from Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
What you should know
Campsite reservations: Due to limited sites, booking well ahead is essential. "Reserve early, as this place doesn't have a ton of sites and it fills up quickly!" advises Ben C. about Smugglers Notch.
Bathroom facilities: Facilities vary widely between parks. "The bathrooms were adequate, nothing special," mentions Miccal M. regarding Big Deer. Meanwhile at Lake Carmi State Park Campground, Lee D. reports: "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."
Lake conditions: Water quality can change seasonally. "The lake had green algae and we spotted several dead fish floating. It made me nervous about the water," warns Melissa L. about Lake Carmi.
Tips for camping with families
Boat rentals for kids: Several parks offer watercraft rentals for family activities. "Paddling out on the lake has to be the best way to enjoy this wonderful area. With boats available for rent, you don't even need to bring your own," suggests Shari G. about Ricker Pond.
Private walk-in sites: Parents seeking quieter experiences can find walk-in options. "This campground is great. Nice and quiet. Campsites are well spaced. Some of the campsites on the outside ring you need to walk into (a very short distance), but it makes it feel very secluded and less like car camping," recommends Jess O. about Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly ranger programs: Many state parks offer educational activities. "On our second day, there was an interpretive program at the pavilion. The ranger led visitors in making bark boats out of materials found in the park. The project was a great idea, as the kids could test their boats right there in the lake," shares Rita M. about Stillwater.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most state parks offer minimal services for RVs. "We got an error on our control panel that said stop! Power source is not correct!" warns Snooz H. about Shelburne Camping Area, highlighting electrical challenges.
Leveling challenges: Terrain can make RV setup difficult. "The sites in the field are generally un-level, and we had to really work to level our trailer," notes Heather C. about Singing Wood Farm.
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs. "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," explains Jessi C. regarding Lake Carmi.