Camping spots near Plainfield, Vermont range in elevation from 800 to 1,500 feet, offering varied terrain across the region's dense northern forest ecosystem. Cell service throughout the camping areas is inconsistent at best, with strongest signals typically found along lake shorelines or higher elevations. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero degrees Fahrenheit, explaining why most campgrounds close from mid-October through mid-May.
What to do
Swimming and paddling on motor-free waters: At Ricker Pond State Park, visitors enjoy a pristine pond experience. "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.
Hiking through historical ruins: The trails around Little River State Park offer unexpected historical exploration. "The hiking trails are really good--the actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," shares Rita M. The ruins are remnants of an abandoned hill farming community from the 1800s.
Gravel biking on rail trails: Access the Cross Vermont Trail directly from several campgrounds for cycling. "We took a half day bike trip on it one day to go to the town of Marshfield to visit Rainbow Sweets, home of some of the best French pastries in Vermont. We biked through marshland, seeing Great Blue Herons and other wildlife," explains a camper at Kettle Pond.
What campers like
Loon watching: Kettle Pond State Park provides wildlife viewing opportunities from its remote sites. "One evening, during a sunset paddle, we got to float alongside a loon family, which was VERY cool," shares a visitor. Night time loon calls add to the wilderness experience.
Secluded tent camping: Campers appreciate the private sites at several parks. "The tent only loop is so private and perfect for kids biking and swimming," mentions Rita M. about New Discovery State Park, where sites are "secluded in the woods" with "direct access to the camper kayak/canoe launch on Kettle Pond."
Clear night skies: The limited light pollution creates optimal stargazing conditions. "Dog friendly and quiet campground with goregous views of the milky way galaxy," reports Kelli M. about Big Deer State Park. The clearest skies typically occur during late summer and early fall months.
What you should know
Remote sites require planning: At Kettle Pond State Park, remoteness is appealing but requires preparation. "You must park in the lot and walk to all these sites. The farthest, most remote site, is about a mile from the parking lot," explains Bryan P. These remote sites provide greater privacy but limit what you can bring.
No running water at some locations: Not all campgrounds offer plumbing. "Kettle Pond State Park is primitive. There is not ANY running water. The running water is accessed by going to New Discovery Campground, which is is about 3 miles down the road," notes a camper. Bring large water containers or filtration systems.
Winter camping limitations: While most state parks close for camping during winter, Stillwater State Park operates until early October. "I stayed in October and it was really quiet and relaxing. There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," advises Michele S. about nearby Ricker Pond.
Tips for camping with families
Choose group camping sites: For family gatherings, specific sites work best. "Group sites all have 5-6 lean-tos, with each lean-to having privacy and its own fire ring with grill. In addition, each group site has a large, community fire pit, picnic tables, and out house," notes a visitor about Kettle Pond.
Look for ranger programs: Educational activities enhance family camping experiences. "On our second day, there was an interpretive program at the pavilion. The ranger led visitors in making bark boats out of materials found in the park. The project was a great idea, as the kids could test their boats right there in the lake," describes Rita M.
Pack beach toys: Several campgrounds offer swimming beaches worth preparing for. "The lake water was beautiful and clear. There was enough sand at the camper beach for sand castles and other beach games," shares a visitor to Big Deer State Park. The beaches are typically uncrowded on weekdays.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: RV campers should note limited full-service options near Plainfield. "Water and electric hookups available. Sites are pretty close together along the rim of a large field," explains Rachel C. about Onion River Campground, suggesting it "does the trick" but isn't particularly scenic.
Bridge constraints: Some campgrounds have access limitations. "You need to go over a bridge in order to get to the campground which is ridiculously narrow and there are terrible potholes. Our 42 foot fifth wheel barely made it in," warns Cyn D. about road conditions to certain sites.
Consider smaller rigs: The nature of Vermont camping favors compact setups. "There are sites with electric hookups as well as some without. Some sites are in the middle of a grassy field while others are tucked in the trees. Site size various pretty vastly as you travel through the campground," notes Sarah C. about Groton Forest Road Campground. Rigs under 30 feet generally have more site options.
