Lake Carmi State Park sits on the largest natural lake entirely within Vermont, with 140 acres of shoreline at 435 feet elevation in the state's Northern Kingdom. The park features natural sandy beaches along with forested camping areas that remain relatively cool even during summer heat due to prevailing lake breezes. This region experiences shorter summer seasons than southern Vermont, with campers noting cooler temperatures particularly in May and September.
What to do
Boating accessibility: Lake Carmi offers dual boat launches suitable for various craft types. According to one camper at Maidstone State Park Campground, "We went fishing, swimming, and out in a canoe. We rented a canoe from the campground and paddled over to Wood Island."
Rail trail exploration: The Missisquoi Rail Trail extends near several campgrounds, providing miles of level biking paths. A visitor at Prouty Beach Campground reported, "You can ride your bike to Canada or into town and see the small town community. Wonderful place to ride bikes and watch the sunset."
Off-season activities: While most campgrounds close by mid-October, winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. One winter visitor to Smugglers Notch noted, "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March. Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve. Silent and starry nights, just make sure you have the gear/experience and a warm sleeping bag."
What campers like
Yurt camping North Troy, Vermont vicinity: Several campgrounds offer alternative lodging including yurts and cabins. At Lake Carmi State Park Campground, cabins provide more comfort during cooler weather. One reviewer mentioned, "A mix of primitive sites (no w/e/s), lean-tos, and two cabins, one in each section. Sites/lean-tos are designated premium (lakefront) or non."
Spacious sites: Many North Troy area campgrounds feature unusually large sites. A guest at Tree Corners Family Campground noted, "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."
Seasonal population shifts: Campgrounds near North Troy typically see their peak crowds from late June through August. A fall visitor wrote, "Came here in the fall with some friends. Dog friendly, cool trails to walk on. The sites were very private. The sites and bathrooms were also VERY clean."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in the region have limited or no cellular coverage. A camper at Little River State Park Campground shared, "I've stayed here a couple of times and both times had a blast. Canoeing or kayaking on the lake is great and there are paddle only sites available."
Water quality considerations: Several lakes in the region experience seasonal algae blooms. As noted by one visitor: "Although swimming is allowed, the 'beaches' are very small and there was a bacteria warning in place when we were there advising against swimming."
Rustic bathroom facilities: While campground bathrooms are generally clean, they tend toward functional rather than modern. One camper mentioned: "The bathrooms in 'B' were just redone" while another noted "Cold water only at both the sinks and the shower (at least I didn't get any hot water)."
Tips for camping with families
Best family-oriented campgrounds: Several yurt camping options near North Troy, Vermont cater specifically to families with children. According to a Kingdom Campground visitor: "Brand new sites, very spacious and clean. Great camp store, deli, huge walk in pool and very friendly staff."
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas for safer water experiences. One camper mentioned: "This is a great place to camp. We enjoyed biking, hiking, campfires, and everyone was so nice and helpful, especially since we were first timers."
Planning around weather: Spring and fall camping requires extra preparation for temperature swings. A visitor advised: "Definitely a long weekend is needed depending on where you are coming from. Gave the feeling of being off the beaten path which was nice and relaxing."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most state park campgrounds have minimal or no RV hookups. A camper noted: "No power hookups and no water hookup at site; ferry takes you to the island; for a few, your equipment will be delivered to your campsite."
Site leveling challenges: Private campgrounds generally offer more level sites than state parks. One RV camper at Singing Wood Farm reported: "The sites in the field are generally un-level, and we had to really work to level our trailer. While we were there, there were car campers, tent campers, and a class C rv, in addition to us in our travel trailer."
Electrical reliability: Some campgrounds experience voltage fluctuations during peak usage times. As one RVer explained: "Our electric was problematic. Granted it was hot while we were there (in the high 80's and low 90's) our electric pedestal showed readings between 110 and 115 volts which was constantly cutting off our air conditioners."
