The Green Mountain National Forest surrounding Pittsford, Vermont offers diverse camping opportunities between 400-2,000 feet elevation. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, with campgrounds at higher elevations experiencing frost even in late spring and early fall. Most dispersed sites around Pittsford remain snow-covered until April, with mud season making forest roads challenging until Memorial Day.
What to do
Hiking near campsites: At Gifford Woods State Park Campground, campers can access multiple trails directly from their sites. "There is a nice trail to walk that follows along the shoreline," notes a visitor about the paths. Another camper highlights: "For a shorter or less-intensive hike, walk about 2.5 miles to the Deer Leap Overlook for some incredible views of the mountain ranges nearby."
Paddle on calm waters: Half Moon Pond State Park Campground provides excellent kayaking opportunities from waterfront sites. "We fished and kayaked right from our site," explains one camper. The pond's small size makes it perfect for beginners and families seeking calm paddling experiences.
Wildlife viewing: At Moosalamoo Campground, the surrounding national recreation area offers excellent wildlife observation opportunities. A family noted, "When you are in the Moosalamoo area, beautiful trees and wildness surrounds you!" Visitors frequently report seeing deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species throughout the camping areas.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Campers consistently praise the layout at Moosalamoo Campground: "The campsites are well spaced and staggered for maximum privacy. Hosts are pleasant and very helpful." Another review confirms: "The campsites are spread out and it's nice and quiet with great privacy."
Swimming options: Branbury State Park Campground receives high marks for its swimming areas. "Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night! A five minute hike from the sites leads to a small river and swimming hole," explains a visitor.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise from visitors to the Pittsford area. At Bomoseen State Park, a camper noted: "Bathrooms were the cleanest of any campground we've ever stayed at." Many state parks in the region have recently upgraded their shower buildings and restroom facilities.
What you should know
Spring access challenges: Michigan Brook Road in Green Mountain National Forest becomes particularly difficult during spring thaw. "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" warns one visitor. Forest roads typically remain closed or severely rutted through mid-May.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically throughout the region. At Michigan Brook Road Camping, a camper advises: "PLEASE NOTE: THIS LOCATION DOES NOT PROVIDE CELL PHONE SERVICE OR WIFI CONNECTION. However, if you walk to the end of upper Michigan Brook road you will have cell phone service and a gas station."
Weather variations: The Pittsford area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, especially at higher elevations. Even summer nights can require warm sleeping bags. At Chittenden Brook Campground, temperatures frequently drop below 50°F overnight even in July and August.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Bomoseen State Park Campground offers multiple recreation options. One family reports: "Our spot was close to the beach which had a fantastic park it was clean not busy at all." The park also features a boardwalk path through the marsh area that children enjoy exploring.
Lean-to options: Families appreciate the shelter options at several area campgrounds. At Half Moon Pond, waterfront lean-tos provide protection from unexpected weather while maintaining easy water access. "Each site is separated with trees, offering some privacy and a greater sense of nature," notes one family camper.
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds in the region offer nature programs specifically designed for children. Ranger-led activities teach kids about local ecosystems and wildlife, with several parks providing junior ranger booklets that children can complete during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Lake Bomoseen KOA, RVers should carefully review site options. One camper shared: "It was a little tight for our 36ft 5th wheel but managable. The sites are a good size and relatively level." Another noted: "The sites are spacious enough, but are very close to each other. Zero buffer between neighboring sites means encroaching slide outs."
Utilities and amenities: Most campgrounds around Pittsford have limited hookups. An RVer at Lake Bomoseen KOA advised: "There is NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect." For reliable internet access, most RVers recommend planning stops in Rutland or Middlebury for connectivity needs.
Seasonal accessibility: Most area campgrounds cannot accommodate large RVs before Memorial Day or after mid-October due to road conditions. Several campgrounds have reduced water service during shoulder seasons, with full hookups generally unavailable during April, early May, and late October.
