Little River State Park Campground sits in Vermont's Green Mountains at approximately 600 feet elevation, 25 miles from Moscow. Winter temperatures average 10-20°F with summer days reaching 70-80°F. The park experiences heavy visitation during fall foliage season, typically peaking between late September and mid-October when campsite availability becomes extremely limited.
What to do
Hiking historical trails: Explore abandoned homesteads throughout the park. "There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," notes Rita M. about Little River State Park Campground.
Winter recreation: Smugglers Notch offers off-season camping options without facilities. "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. from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Rail trail biking: Access the Montpelier & Wells River Rail Trail directly from some campgrounds. "We had our trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground," writes Emma B. about Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Paddle exploration: Navigate motor-free ponds for peaceful water experiences. "A quiet camp ground on Ricker Pond, a motor free pond, is a wonderful way to spend the weekend. The pond is serene and a great place to swim, paddle, explore, and fish," explains Hannah H.
What campers like
Lean-to structures: Many Vermont state parks feature these semi-sheltered camping options. "True to northeast tradition many of the camp sites are lean-to style," mentions Harry H. about Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Quiet weekday camping: Mid-week visits offer more seclusion and peaceful experiences. "It was late in the season and mid week so it was pretty quiet around the park," notes Rachel N. about Ricker Pond.
Mountain proximity: Direct access to hiking trails from campsites. "We love hiking and this sweet campsite is the perfect spot to start or end a hike. It's well kept, private, beautiful, and right in the mountains," says Mackenzie B. about Smugglers Notch.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," warns Michele S. about Ricker Pond State Park.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "I've been visiting Ricker Pond for nearly 20 years (except for the years that I don't book enough in advance and aren't able to secure a spot for my desired length of stay). My favorite lean to site is directly on the water, private, and fills up fast," explains Neena B. from Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Yurt camping options: While traditional yurt camping near Moscow, Vermont remains limited, nearby options exist at Big Deer State Park. Camping at sites near Moscow often requires early reservations, particularly for specialty accommodations like yurts.
Shower facilities: Most parks have coin-operated showers. "Coin-op shower with hot water is 50 cents for 5 minutes, 75 cents for 7:30, etc.," notes Drew Q. about Mount Philo State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Look for campgrounds with swimming areas. "The park features a small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water," shares Rita M. about Little River.
Playground availability: Some parks offer dedicated play areas for children. "Clean, quiet campground that feels like wilderness, but is accessible!" notes Brenna T. about Little River State Park.
Private sites: Select sites that offer more seclusion for family comfort. "Sites 1, 6 and 8 are the best if you're only camping with those at your site as they're the most secluded and private. Sites 2 and 3 are more open, to both each other, and to those en route to the bathrooms," advises Drew Q. about Mount Philo.
Winter considerations: For families seeking yurt camping near Moscow, Vermont in winter, prepare for primitive conditions and pack appropriately. "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," cautions Ed M. about Smugglers Notch's winter camping.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Many state parks lack electrical connections. "No electrical hookups to be found, so bring your solar panels if you want power," advises Shari G. about Stillwater State Park Campground.
Pull-through options: Private campgrounds offer more RV-friendly sites. "We had a full hook up, pull-thru corner space for us. Offered parking for our truck right across lane on separate site," shares DJ about Shelburne Camping Area.
Distance to supplies: Grocery access can be limited near some parks. "This area of VT is 25-30 minutes from any type of grocery store. There is the camp store, but their stock is limited," notes Rita M. about Stillwater.
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