Remote wilderness camping awaits in northeastern Vermont's Connecticut River Valley, known locally as the Northeast Kingdom. Situated near the Canadian border, Norton sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with cold winters and mild summers. Camping conditions vary dramatically by season with most campgrounds operating from May through October, and waterfront sites often booking months in advance.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Francis: Find excellent kayaking and fishing at Lake Francis State Park Campground, where campers report seeing wildlife. "Very clean facilities. Friendly staff. I only explored sites 1-21, but all of those sites without hook ups are pretty private. Sites with hook ups are more open," notes Jillian. The lake provides opportunities for both relaxation and recreation.
Fishing in multiple locations: Local ponds and rivers offer varied fishing experiences. At Coleman State Park Campground, one visitor reports, "The pond is wonderful, the sounds of loons - Magical. If you enjoy exploring the woods, fishing and being in the wild this is a good clean option." Most fishing spots are accessible without special equipment.
Wildlife viewing: The region is known for moose, eagles, and loons. At Mollidgewock State Park Campground, a reviewer explains, "Mollidgewock State Park, overlooking the Androscoggin River, is embedded in the beautiful and tranquil scenery that makes up what I would call, the moose capital of NH." Dawn and dusk provide best viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer direct lake or river access. According to one camper at Maidstone State Park, "I've found my place of peace and tranquility and it's where I'd like to reside eventually, our stay here was to short for the beauty we found at the park. The lake had to be the most pure and pristine lake in Vermont."
Clean facilities despite remoteness: Campgrounds maintain good standards even in remote locations. At Lakeside Camping, a visitor mentioned, "We have been coming here for the last 14 years together, and my husband since he was a baby. Lovely small quaint town and beautiful campground. The beach is the best! Not overcrowded."
Variety of accommodation options: From tent sites to cabins and yurts for glamping in Norton, Vermont. At Kingdom Campground, a visitor noted, "Brand new sites, very spacious and clean. Great camp store, deli, huge walk in pool and very friendly staff." Many campgrounds have renovated their facilities in recent years.
What you should know
Limited services: Most areas have minimal cell service and few nearby stores. At Prouty Beach Campground, a camper shared, "For fellow work from homers - Strangely Verizon has strong signal but bandwidth issues/very slow to stopped at times - not just me but confirmed by office rep. AT&T works better and u can do WebEx's."
Weather preparation essential: Summer temperatures can drop significantly at night. One visitor to Coleman State Park mentioned, "This small little campground (25 sites) is tucked off the main road (Route 16) and dead ends at Little Diamond Pond... Its location makes it a great spot to truly get away including zip, zero, zilch cell phone reception!"
Reservation needs: Peak season requires advance booking for most sites. A camper at Lake Francis explained, "We stopped in on a Saturday at noon to see if by chance there was a site available for one night. There was a cancellation and we had a beautiful secluded, sunny, grassy site." Off-season visits offer more flexibility.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with multiple activities: Some locations offer more than others. At Lakeside Camping, a family reported, "Great place to go kayaking, jump off the dock, or go search for the log! Best camping out there!" Most family-friendly sites have designated swimming areas.
Choose sites away from ATV trails: Noise can be an issue at some campgrounds. A visitor to Coleman State Park advised, "ATV traffic can be a little annoying, but otherwise quiet. Not close to shopping." Most family campers prefer sites farther from main roads.
Pack extra supplies: Stores are limited and often close early. At Mollidgewock State Park, one camper warned, "Errol is a small community, with only a few convenience stores, gas stations, gift shops and restaurants in town. You'll want to keep in mind that many places are closed sundays and Mondays. Make sure you plan ahead!"
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many glamping sites near Norton, Vermont have size limitations. A visitor to Lakeside Camping noted, "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."
Water and electric hookups vary: Not all sites offer full connections. At Kingdom Campground, a camper explained, "Very clean and quiet campground mostly set up for RVs. All RV sites have water, sewer, and electric. Tent sites have water and electric." Some premium sites cost significantly more but provide better amenities.
Limited dumping facilities: Plan accordingly for longer stays. At Prouty Beach, an RVer mentioned, "This is a county park in what Vermonters call the Northeast Kingdom. The campground sits on Lake Memphremagog overlooking downtown Newport. Campground amenities include 50-amp, water, sewer, laundry, free showers and restrooms, and free wi-fi."
