Vermont's Perkinsville region sits along the Connecticut River Valley with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs from May through mid-October when overnight temperatures remain above freezing. During peak foliage season in late September and early October, campgrounds report nearly 100% occupancy rates with reservations often required 6-8 months in advance.
What to do
Paddling on clear mountain lakes: At Ricker Pond State Park Campground, campers enjoy motor-free waters perfect for exploration. "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," notes Hannah H. The park offers boat rentals for those without their own equipment.
Hiking nearby trails: Outdoor enthusiasts can access the Cross Vermont Trail directly from campgrounds in the region. "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," shares Michele S. about Ricker Pond. Trail difficulty ranges from easy walking paths to more challenging mountain terrain.
Enjoying fall foliage: Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground makes an excellent base for autumn color viewing. "Lots of great sites, clean, lots of amenities and activities. Can be tough to get into because so nice and popular in a good location," writes Rick G. Fall color typically peaks between September 25 and October 10, with campgrounds filling quickly during this period.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer generous spacing between camping areas. "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," notes Michele S. about Ricker Pond. Site distances vary from 20 to 50 feet apart at most campgrounds.
Local attractions: Cannon Mountain RV Park provides access to numerous regional highlights. "If you aim to hike Franconia Ridge, on the weekend you can catch a shuttle from the Cannon skier parking lot. With a family, explore the Flume gorge, the Pemi trail, the Basin, and the New England Ski Museum," suggests Jean C. Most attractions are within a 15-30 minute drive.
Riverside locations: Many rv parks near Perkinsville, Vermont provide water access. "My family loves this campground right on the CT River. It has RV sights and cabins they keep the campers busy with fun activities for kids and grown ups," writes Chris H. about River Meadow Campground RV Park. Most riverside sites fill quickly, often requiring reservations 2-3 months in advance.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many Perkinsville-area campgrounds have spotty connectivity. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," warns Michele S. about Ricker Pond. Visitors should download maps and information before arrival.
Weather considerations: Vermont camping conditions can change rapidly. "We stayed here in early August 2016 with friends and kids. The tent only loop is so private and perfect for kids biking and swimming," notes Rita M. Nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F even in summer months.
Reservation timing: Smugglers Notch RV Village fills quickly during peak seasons. "This is new campground opened this past season. This is our 3rd visit and it gets better each time. They offer a variety of different sites to fit each campers needs," writes Alan B. Most campgrounds require reservations 2-3 months in advance for summer weekends and 6+ months for holiday weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Bring bikes for kids to explore campground roads. "The tent only loop is so private and perfect for kids biking and swimming. Nice pavilion and the pond was wonderful for canoes and kayaks," shares Rita M. about Ricker Pond. Most campground roads are gravel with 5-10 mph speed limits.
Convenience features: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly amenities. "This campground has everything! Horse carriage rides, paved roads, 2 pools, playgrounds, mini golf, fireworks..." notes Jen C. about Sugar Ridge RV Village. Family-focused campgrounds typically charge $5-15 extra per night compared to more basic facilities.
Kid-friendly activities: Riverside Camping & RV Resort offers planned recreation. "Easily one of the most well maintained sites we have visited. Beautiful nature trails behind the campground. I found one that lead to a beach by the river, perfect for reading and relaxing," writes Rebecca Y. Scheduled activities typically run on weekends from late June through August.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Carefully review campground maps when booking RV sites in Perkinsville and surrounding areas. "The sites are narrow, a little bigger than a parking space, especially because of the trees in between the sites. We stayed at site four. Site seven looks to be the best because no trees on one side let's you have some room," explains Cathy G. about Cannon Mountain RV Park.
Off-season advantages: Consider camping outside peak summer months. "My wife and I spent the month of July at Riverbrook and we couldn't have been happier. The owners are super friendly and accommodating; the park is clean, comfortable, and convenient to adventures in the White Mountains," shares Corby M. about Riverbrook RV & Camping Resort. Most RV parks near Perkinsville offer discounted rates of 20-30% during May, early June, and late September.
Navigation challenges: Access roads to some campgrounds present difficulties. "The park is clean, comfortable, and convenient to adventures in the White Mountains; and the wifi worked great...especially when compared to other campgrounds we've been to," notes Corby M. Many campgrounds provide specific arrival instructions for larger rigs.