The Northeast Kingdom area surrounding Perkinsville, Vermont sits at elevations between 500-1,500 feet with dense mixed forests and river valleys. Cabin camping options in this region operate seasonally with most closing after mid-October when temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Winter cabin rentals are limited to a few year-round facilities that provide adequate heating systems.
What to do
River activities on Ricker Pond: Visitors to Ricker Pond State Park Campground can explore the motor-free pond for paddling and fishing. "Ricker Pond State Park literally has something for everyone! It's located along with several other state parks in the Groton State Forest so there's so much to do! Clear mountain lake? Check! Miles of stunning hiking trails? Check! Rail trails? Check! Horseback riding trails? Check!" notes one camper.
Mountain exploration near Smugglers Notch: The area around Smugglers Notch State Park Campground offers numerous hiking trails through mountain terrain with elevation gains from 500-2,000 feet. "Getting here isn't direct or easy, but the reward is worth it. Leave your mobile devices off, because cell towers haven't quite made it to this quiet corner of the woods," reports a visitor to the region.
Cross Vermont Trail access: Several campgrounds provide direct access to the extensive trail network. "We had our trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground," notes a camper who stayed at Ricker Pond State Park.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: At Little River State Park Campground, cabins near the water provide privacy. "Some of the best sites are up on a bluff with views over the lake and towards sunrise," reports one camper. The reservoir offers both motorized and non-motorized boating options.
Proximity to mountain towns: Cabin options at Mountain View Campground provide access to nearby attractions. "If you want to visit Stowe, VT, this is a great place to camp. It's also only an hour from Burlington, so this could be a good home base for visiting there," notes one visitor. Most cabins include heat for shoulder season stays when overnight temperatures can drop significantly.
Winter access for cabins: Select locations offer cold weather options. "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 and the area is not plowed," explains a visitor to Smugglers Notch State Park.
What you should know
Booking timelines: Plan ahead for prime cabin locations. "I've been visiting Ricker Pond for nearly 20 years (except for the years that I don't book enough in advance and aren't able to secure a spot for my desired length of stay)," mentions one regular visitor.
Site variations between campgrounds: Cabin styles range from rustic to modern. "Art and Health Chill Camping has various camping options including a cabin, hives, or open locations for rv or tent camping. The land is 8 acres, and you feel a sense of privacy and serenity. You hear roosters in the morning from a local farm," describes one guest.
Limited cell coverage: Many cabin camping areas have minimal connectivity. "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," advises a Ricker Pond visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: At Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground, family amenities include multiple play areas. "We stayed here and were VERY happy! Dog friendly, mini golf, heated pool, two playgrounds, and crafts and fun things for the kids! We truly enjoyed this park most sites are spacious and some good ones with privacy as well," notes a family visitor.
Best river cabin locations: Choose sites carefully for water access with children. "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. If you paddle or swim to the other side of the camp ground, there is a huge rock with a rope swing."
Weather preparation: Pack for temperature variations even in summer. "When we first pulled into this campground and saw how close our site was to our neighbors, we were a little dismayed. But it turned out we had a really pleasant stay at the campground and came to like all the amenities and people," reports a visitor to Mountain View Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: At Lost River Valley Campground, cabin options provide alternatives to difficult RV access. "You cannot go wrong. Right on kangamangus highway basically in the mountains. Recommend the sites by the river!" notes one visitor. Many cabins accommodate parties who also bring an RV but prefer sleeping in solid structures.
Seasonal availability: Most cabin facilities close by mid-October. "This sleepy campground feels more like a place for retirees than active campers or overlanders," notes one visitor about Lazy Lions Campground. During peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weekend cabin reservations typically require 2-night minimum stays.
Utilities and access: Verify water availability for cabin sites. "Our site (#103) was long enough to fit our rig but we had to squeeze the car in front. The site was level and all the hookups were well-placed and worked fine," reports a camper at Mountain View Campground where both cabins and RV sites share similar amenities.
