Dog-friendly campgrounds near Orleans provide convenient access to northeastern Vermont's unique recreational areas. The Northeast Kingdom region sits at elevations between 700 and 1,500 feet with autumn temperatures that can vary dramatically—often dropping below freezing at night while maintaining comfortable daytime temperatures. Winter camping requires serious cold-weather gear as temperatures regularly fall below zero, while summer temperatures typically range from 60°F to 80°F.
What to do
Trail access for dogs: Kingdom Campground offers proximity to multiple hiking networks in the Northeast Kingdom. "Very clean and quiet campground mostly set up for RVs. All RV sites have water, sewer, and electric. Tent sites have water and electric," explains Nick, adding that "you're close to everything in the NEK."
Mountain biking with dogs: Camp Kiki provides direct trail access. One reviewer notes: "This place is amazing! We had two nights here and I wish we could have stayed longer. We could hop on our bikes and hit the trails from our site! Short walk or ride to town for food, music, and supplies."
Water activities with pets: Lakeside swimming and boating opportunities abound. According to a visitor at Lakeside Camping: "The beach is the best! Not overcrowded. Great place to go kayaking, jump off the dock, or go search for the log! Best camping out there!"
What campers like
Secluded settings: Many campers appreciate sites that offer privacy. A camper at Belview Campground described: "The site was perfect for it. Would be perfect for someone pitching a tent as well, as there is a lot of room on each site for multiple things."
Stargazing opportunities: The limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. At Elmore State Park Campground, a camper shared: "Because our lean-to was in a meadow with no tree coverage, we were treated to the most awesome night sky we've ever seen at a Vermont state park. It was mesmerizing!"
Lake access: Multiple campgrounds provide direct water access. At Brighton State Park Campground, one visitor noted: "I usually don't camp near other people, but I really like this site. I think every site has a waterfront view. They rake the sites after people leave so everything is neat and tidy and as flat as possible for your tent."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Prouty Beach Campground, one camper observed: "The stalls in the bathroom are uncomfortably short so when you stand up your head is poking out over the door, you can make eye contact w everyone else in the room which is just weird!"
Wildlife encounters: The area is home to diverse wildlife. "We saw one [moose], crossing the road right by it when we were about to give up! it was too dark for a good photo at that point, but at least we found one!" shared a Brighton State Park visitor.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require appropriate gear. "During our stay, there was an ongoing summer camp for kids which was a little annoying. While the kids were not in the campground, we constantly heard them and they used all parts of the park," noted a visitor to Prouty Beach Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water slides and amenities: Tree Corners Family Campground offers numerous child-friendly 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."
Off-season benefits: For families seeking quieter experiences, consider shoulder season camping. At Elmore State Park Campground, a visitor shared: "Early and late seasons are quiet. It's quite busy during the summer months as the lake is great for families and swimming. Book the loop away from the road for the quietest campsites."
Pet-friendly activities: Multiple dog-friendly campgrounds offer dedicated pet areas. "This place is drive in and never touch the car again. Two huge sites that can be rented in tandem as a group site. Sites are pet friendly and there's lots of space for big dogs to run around," noted a visitor to Camp Kiki.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have site size limitations. At Will-O-Wood Campground, a reviewer explained: "The sites were relatively private and large, and the campground was quiet overall. Water and electricity is available for each site. Each site is also equipped with a picnic table and a stone fire ring."
Hookup availability: Electrical service varies between locations. A Kingdom Campground visitor noted: "Very clean and quiet campground mostly set up for RVs. All RV sites have water, sewer, and electric. Tent sites have water and electric."
Road access: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. At Lakeside Camping, an RVer reported: "The first thing that happened is you go over the train tracks to go to the office to register and you have to turn your rig around to go to Riverside which the sites are extremely small had a 42 foot fifth wheel and took me 15 minutes to get set so I could disconnect."
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