The Northeast Kingdom region offers unique RV camping opportunities with elevations ranging from 600-800 feet around Lake Memphremagog to 2,500+ feet in surrounding mountains. Seasonal temperature swings are dramatic, with summer highs averaging 75-80°F and winter lows frequently below 0°F. Fall foliage season typically peaks from late September to mid-October, creating high demand for campgrounds throughout the region.
What to do
Hiking from campgrounds: Brighton State Park Campground features multiple trail options directly from campsites. "Great trails right in the park, including the Shore Trail and the Boreal Forest loop. There are lots more trails to discover just a short drive from the park," notes one visitor who explored during foliage season.
Mountain biking access: Kingdom Campground positions campers near the renowned Kingdom Trails network. "Great for quiet getaway" with "beautiful views right from campsites," according to recent visitors who appreciate its proximity to biking destinations in the Northeast Kingdom.
Water recreation: Lake Willoughby provides crystal-clear swimming opportunities near White Caps Campground. A camper reports: "The beach right across the road. Kayak & canoe rentals. Crystal clear lake to swim in." Rental equipment is available directly at several campgrounds for paddling Lake Memphremagog or smaller bodies of water.
What campers like
Lean-to options: Multiple state parks offer covered lean-to shelters that extend camping seasons. At Brighton State Park Campground, campers appreciate that "lean-tos made our stay much more enjoyable than it would have been otherwise" during rainy conditions, providing protection while maintaining outdoor access.
Wildlife viewing: Loon sightings and calls are frequently mentioned in reviews. "Love listening to the loons in the morning," writes one regular visitor to Brighton State Park, while others note hearing them at dusk across several area lakes.
Dark skies for stargazing: Elmore State Park Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing from its meadow sites. "We were treated to the most awesome night sky we've ever seen at a Vermont state park. It was mesmerizing!" reports one camper who stayed in a lean-to at an open meadow site.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds operate from Memorial Day through Columbus Day weekend only. "Most sites were mostly private" at Elmore State Park, but availability is strictly seasonal.
Variable shower facilities: Shower arrangements differ significantly between campgrounds. White Caps Campground has "showers with a coin system in place to use them," while state parks offer varying quality facilities. One camper noted at Brighton State Park: "Cleanest showers I've seen at any campsite so far."
Connectivity challenges: Cell service and internet access varies widely. At Kingdom Campground, visitors report: "No cable, and only PBS over the air... Oh well, did I say this is great for a quiet getaway!" At campsites in valleys, expect little to no cell coverage.
Dump station availability: Several campgrounds lack on-site dump facilities. White Caps campers report being told "my only option was to go down the road to Willo Campground and I could dump my tanks there for $30," requiring planning for longer stays in RVs.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground offers heated swimming pools popular with families. "Kids were happy with the heated pool, horse rides, and other activities," mentions a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly amenities despite some site mapping issues.
Organized activities: Family programming varies by location. Sugar Ridge provides "mini golf, heated pool, two playgrounds, and crafts and fun things for the kids," according to a satisfied family camper who rated their experience highly.
Beach areas: Several campgrounds maintain beach access points. At Brighton State Park, "the campsite itself is beautiful... on a gorgeous lake to sit by on the beach and watch the stars at night," combining two popular family activities in one location.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing varies dramatically: Smugglers Notch RV Village provides more uniform, purpose-built RV spaces. "They offer a variety of different sites to fit each camper's needs... The sites are good size and come with full hookups," reports a return visitor who appreciates the consistent quality.
Winter accessibility: RV sites near Newport, Vermont have varying seasonal limitations. While Prouty Beach operates year-round, seasonal campgrounds like Sugar Ridge close from November through April. "The sites are HUGE" at several locations when available, but winter options remain limited.
Terrain considerations: Many campgrounds feature sloped or tight access roads. At White Caps, reviews indicate it's "not big-rig friendly" and "spots are so close to each other," while Kingdom Campground offers "super spacious" newer sites that accommodate larger RVs with "beautiful views in the back."
