Vermont's glamping opportunities near Northfield Falls offer sites at elevations between 700-2000 feet with varied terrain providing distinctly different camping experiences. Several state parks maintain cabin and glamping sites year-round, with seasonal availability from May through mid-October at most locations. Winter glamping remains available at select sites like Smugglers Notch, where unserviced lean-tos can be reserved during snow season.
What to do
Hiking historical trails: At Little River State Park Campground, trails connect to abandoned homesteads with educational markers. "The hiking trails are really good--the actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," notes Rita M. in her review.
Kayaking on motor-free waters: Ricker Pond State Park Campground offers calm paddling without motorboat traffic. A visitor explains, "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."
Winter sports access: Glamping sites remain accessible for winter adventures. One visitor at Smugglers Notch notes, "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March of 2019. 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."
What campers like
Private waterfront access: Sites directly on water provide private entry points for swimming and boating. "If you paddle or swim to the other side of the camp ground, there is a huge rock with a rope swing," mentions Hannah H. about her Ricker Pond experience.
Urban-accessible nature: North Beach Campground offers glamping with city access. "Bring your bikes! you're tucked away in the woods on gorgeous lake champlain and can bike into burlington for meals and city street strolls," suggests Mackenzie B.
Star viewing locations: The clear mountain air provides exceptional night sky viewing. A camper at Mount Philo State Park Campground reports, "Vermont's oldest state park has just 10 campsites (7 tent sites and 3 lean-tos). We've stayed there a few times, and even during high summer the campsites aren't usually full."
What you should know
Limited amenities at remote sites: More secluded locations offer fewer services. "No electrical hookups to be found, so bring your solar panels if you want power. There is a ton of space between sites -- we could barely see our neighbors or hear them," notes Shari G. regarding Ricker Pond State Park.
Seasonal water challenges: Lake levels and water quality vary throughout the season. "Very nice campground, great location! The reservoir was beautiful. Took the kayak, only issue I had was getting to the lake. Most sites up on hill looking over lake, not easily assessable from camp site," shares Cindy L.
Limited cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly between glamping locations. "This is a pretty small State Park, so it fills up quickly. The sites on the pond are beautiful if you can get one! The campground has a small beach, boat launch and it's right on the Cross Vermont Trail. I stayed in October and it was really quiet and relaxing. There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Stillwater State Park Campground provides dedicated play areas and swimming beaches. Rita M. reports, "We were within easy walking distance of the beach and pavilion. The girls mostly biked everywhere. There is even a nice path through the woods to the local camp store."
Junior ranger programs: Seasonal educational activities engage children in nature learning. "On our second day, there was an interpretive program at the pavilion. The ranger led visitors in making bark boats out of materials found in the park. The project was a great idea, as the kids could test their boats right there in the lake."
Child-friendly hiking: Several glamping locations connect to gentle trails suitable for young hikers. "We visited here with our 5 kiddos for 2 nights late July 2016. The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Gifford Woods State Park Campground accommodates varied vehicle sizes but requires planning. "The sites on the lower loop are closer together. Get a site in the upper loop if you can, but no complaints for not making advance reservations on July 4th weekend," advises Emil.
Limited hookup availability: Most glamping locations near Northfield Falls provide limited or no RV hookups. "It's basically a public park with beach access. The views on the beach are absolutely beautiful. No frills sites."
Winter access restrictions: Off-season glamping near Northfield Falls requires special considerations. "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."
