Best Campgrounds near Orleans, VT
The Northeast Kingdom region surrounding Orleans, Vermont features a diverse array of camping options within the rural landscape. Brighton State Park Campground, located about 20 miles east of Orleans, offers highly-rated waterfront sites with boat-in access and traditional amenities including electric hookups and showers. Several family-oriented private campgrounds dot the area, including Kingdom Campground and Will-O-Wood Campground in nearby Brownington, which operate seasonally from May through mid-October. Prouty Beach Campground in Newport provides year-round camping on Lake Memphremagog with full hookups for RVs and a biking path to downtown. The area's camping landscape includes traditional tent sites, RV accommodations with 30-50 amp service, rustic cabins, and some glamping options, particularly at Tree Corners Family Campground in Irasburg.
Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally, with the majority closing by mid-October and reopening in May. According to one camper at Maidstone State Park, "It's hard sometimes to get away from all the people in Vermont, but this park is far enough out of the way where you can avoid a majority of the summer tourists." Cell service remains spotty throughout much of the Northeast Kingdom, with visitors reporting limited connectivity at most campgrounds. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with temperatures occasionally dropping into the 20s even during late spring and early fall camping seasons. Campsite quality and privacy vary significantly between locations, with state parks generally offering more spacious and secluded options compared to private campgrounds where sites may be closer together.
Waterfront camping locations receive consistently high ratings from visitors, with lakes and ponds serving as focal points for recreation. Campers frequently mention the pristine water quality and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly loons and other waterfowl at locations like Maidstone State Park. The traditional Vermont lean-to shelter appears at several state parks in the region, offering a distinctive camping experience. Site privacy varies considerably, with one reviewer noting of White Caps Campground, "You are a bit on top of your neighbors, but the grass area and view of lake right in front of you is priceless." Many campgrounds provide easy access to the Kingdom Trails mountain biking network, making them popular bases for outdoor recreation. Advance reservations are essential during summer months and fall foliage season when campgrounds frequently reach capacity.
