The Northeast Kingdom region around Newport, Vermont sits at approximately 700 feet above sea level on the southern shore of Lake Memphremagog. Summer temperatures typically range from 55°F to 80°F with frequent morning fog over the lakes. Winter camping isn't available at most locations as the region receives over 100 inches of snow annually and temperatures regularly drop below 0°F.
What to do
Paddling at Spectacle Pond: Brighton State Park Campground offers access to Spectacle Pond with boat rentals available. "A beautiful cozy little park with allot to do for the whole family, we went late to see or hear allot of loans but we still heard some," notes Kyle B.
Biking on rail trails: The nearby Missisquoi Rail Trail connects to Lake Carmi State Park Campground. "Nearby is access to the Missisquoi Rail Trail," confirms Lee D., who visited during the shoulder season.
Waterfall hiking: Several cascades are within driving distance of the Newport area. "Nearby waterfalls are lovely," writes Mackenzie B. about Smugglers Notch State Park Campground, which requires a longer drive but offers excellent hiking trails.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer water access with varying levels of privacy. At Brighton State Park Campground, Tina D. appreciated that "I think every site has a waterfront view. They rake the sites after people leave so everything is neat and tidy and as flat as possible for your tent."
Night sky viewing: The area has minimal light pollution for stargazing. At Will-O-Wood Campground, Emma N. shared, "My husband and I really enjoyed stargazing at night. There was so little light pollution that we woke up during the night thinking that someone was shining a light outside, but realized that it was just the moonlight."
Kayaking opportunities: The region's numerous lakes and ponds provide excellent paddling options. "Great place to go kayaking," notes Brian J. about Lake Carmi. For Island Pond, Dena A. simply stated, "kayaking is great" at Lakeside Camping.
What you should know
Seasonal algae issues: Some lakes experience water quality concerns in summer months. At Lake Carmi State Park Campground, Melissa L. reported, "the lake had green algae and we spotted several dead fish floating. It made me nervous about the water."
Limited cell coverage: Many campgrounds have poor or no cellular service. At Will-O-Wood Campground, Natalie N. noted "at&t 4g covered most of camp," though this varies widely by provider and location.
Coin-operated showers: Most campgrounds require quarters for hot water. Sarah C. observed at Brighton State Park that "the showers do take quarters and although you get five minutes for each quarter (up to 15 quarters), it was quite possibly the wimpiest shower I've experienced in quite some time."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Several campgrounds feature beaches and swimming areas. At Tree Corners Family Campground, Mallory P. found "two separate pools and hot tubs for kids and adults. Tons of other activities for kids- splash pad, water slides, playground, basketball court, etc."
Dog-friendly hikes: For pet owners, many trails welcome leashed dogs. "Near by are all sorts of awesome hiking trails. Boreal forest. THE best," recommends Tina D. at Brighton State Park, making it one of the most dog friendly campgrounds near Newport.
Off-season discounts: Shoulder season camping offers reduced rates and fewer crowds. At Smugglers Notch, Ed M. shared, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many older campgrounds have smaller spaces. At Lakeside Camping, Ronald C. warned, "The sites are extremely small had a 42 foot fifth wheel and took me 15 minutes to get set so I could disconnect. Good thing there was no one next to me on both sides so I had room to move around otherwise I would've never made it in there."
Electric reliability issues: During peak summer heat, electrical systems can be strained. Nancy W. reported at Prouty Beach Campground, "our electric pedestal showed readings between 110 and 115 volts which was constantly cutting off our air conditioners."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer sanitary dump stations. At Lake Carmi, Jessi C. noted the challenge: "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."
Guide
