Pet friendly camping near North Troy, Vermont offers options in the Northeast Kingdom region where elevations range from 700 to 2,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-70s during the day with cooler nights in the 50s. The region receives approximately 45 inches of precipitation annually, creating lush forests and numerous lakes that campers can explore with their dogs.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: At Prouty Beach Campground, you can enjoy Lake Memphremagog with boat rentals available directly from the campground. "There is a very nice bike trail that runs through the campground, to the city of Newport on one side and to Canada on the other!" according to camper Bran P. Note that some beach areas may have seasonal closures as one visitor reported: "I really liked the campground but I was upset that they didn't say anything about flood damage to their beach."
Trail hiking with dogs: Explore walking paths accessible from Brighton State Park Campground where dogs can join you on forest trails. "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 Tara S. The park maintains "cleanest showers I've seen at any campsite so far" according to Justina C., making it comfortable to clean up after trail adventures.
Winter camping opportunities: For the adventurous, off-season camping is available at some locations. At Smugglers Notch State Park Campground, winter camping is available but requires preparation. "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.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer spacious, private sites ideal for camping with pets. At Will-O-Wood Campground, "The sites were relatively private and large, and the campground was quiet overall. Water and electricity is available for each site," writes Emma N. Their sites include "a picnic table and a stone fire ring," making them comfortable for extended stays with dogs.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities. "The park was very clean. The staff used push mowers and weed whackers to cautiously cut grass around campsites. There was no trash laying around and every morning we saw them rake beach grass and debris along the beach," observed Nancy W. at Prouty Beach Campground.
Natural soundscapes: Several campgrounds offer natural soundscapes that enhance the camping experience. Brighton State Park Campground visitors frequently mention "listening to the loons in the morning" as Heather O. notes. Another camper mentioned: "the loons are quite vocal during the evening and morning hours," creating a peaceful natural atmosphere.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some lakes experience seasonal algae issues. As one camper at Lake Carmi State Park Campground noted: "the lake had green algae and we spotted several dead fish floating. It made me nervous about the water." Check with park offices about current water conditions before planning swimming activities with pets.
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be spotty throughout the region. "Campground has no cell service and you have to pay for WiFi which is less than ideal," reported Mallory P. about Tree Corners Family Campground. At Prouty Beach Campground, "Strangely Verizon has strong signal but bandwidth issues/very slow to stopped at times. AT&T works better," according to Ted D.
Site selection matters: When booking pet-friendly sites, consider specific location factors. "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. about Lake Carmi State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities: Tree Corners Family Campground offers extensive recreational facilities. "Massive campground made mostly for those with kids. 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.," describes Mallory P. The facilities ensure children and pets have plenty of space to play.
Quiet hours enforcement: Families appreciate consistent quiet hours at most campgrounds. At Mill Pond, owners "strictly enforce noise hours which is good for young and older campers," according to John L. This creates a better environment for families with children and pets who need regular sleep schedules.
Beach access: Many campgrounds offer beach areas ideal for families with children and dogs. At Belview Campground, one visitor noted: "The short walk to the beach was a plus," and mentioned their "space 14 which is an easy drive through site for beginners like us." The bench around the fire ring provides comfortable seating for family gatherings.
Tips from RVers
Site sizes and accessibility: RV campers should check site dimensions before booking. At Prouty Beach Campground, some sites are "HUGE! Probably the biggest we have ever seen in our travels thus far," according to Bran P. However, others note limitations at certain parks, like Lake Carmi where "there are few [sites] that are big enough for large RVs."
Electric considerations: Electrical reliability varies between campgrounds. At Prouty Beach Campground, one camper experienced problems: "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." This is particularly important when camping with pets who need climate control.
Winter preparation: For those considering off-season RV camping, note that many facilities close and services are limited. At Smugglers Notch State Park Campground during winter, there are "No facilities off season…Carry out all trash/waste." Winter camping requires "the gear/experience and a warm sleeping bag," advises Ed M.
