Camping cabins near Plainfield, Vermont provide year-round access to the Green Mountains region at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,000 feet. Seasonal temperature variations influence cabin availability, with most facilities operating from mid-May through mid-October when temperatures average 45°F to 75°F. Several campgrounds maintain primitive cabin facilities with wood stove heating for fall camping when nighttime temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking on waterways: Ricker Pond State Park Campground offers motor-free pond access perfect for paddling. "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. in her review.
Hike abandoned settlements: Little River State Park Campground contains historic sites from former communities. "The hiking trails are really good—actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," explains Rita M., highlighting these unique historic features.
Winter camping adventures: Smugglers Notch State Park maintains limited off-season cabin access. "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," shares Ed M.
Rail trail biking: Several campgrounds connect to the Cross Vermont Trail system. "The campground has a small beach, boat launch and it's right on the Cross Vermont Trail," explains Michele S. about Ricker Pond State Park, providing direct trail access from campsites.
What campers like
Digital detox opportunities: Many woodland cabins lack connectivity. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," advises Michele S. about Ricker Pond State Park Campground. This disconnect extends throughout much of the Plainfield region.
Private cabin options: Art and Health Chill Camping offers secluded cabin rentals on expansive property. "It is a private landowners land, and she 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," reports Heather C.
Proximity to local resources: Many cabin sites maintain strategic locations near towns. "The campground is in a good location, just a few miles from downtown St. Johnsbury, just a mile or so from "Dog Mountain," and about 15 miles from Littleton, New Hampshire," notes Nancy W. about Moose River Campground.
Seasonal activities: Different cabin options cater to specific outdoor pursuits. "The Green Mountains of Vermont are amazing all year. Check with the local ski resorts for summer activities like gondola rides," suggests Harry H. regarding Smugglers Notch State Park.
What you should know
Temperature fluctuations: Plainfield area cabins experience significant evening cooling. "We stayed in October and it was really quiet and relaxing," reports Michele S. about Ricker Pond, where autumn nights regularly drop into the 30s.
River cabin considerations: Moose River Campground offers waterside accommodations with seasonal variations. "The shallow river is a clear flowing rocky river. If you can score a riverfront site those are nice to sit outside and enjoy a fire," explains Nancy W., though water levels vary throughout the camping season.
Wilderness navigation: Forest cabins require adequate planning. "Leave your mobile devices off, because cell towers haven't quite made it to this quiet corner of the woods," advises Shari G. about the Ricker Pond area, emphasizing the need for physical maps.
Grocery access limitations: Cabin campers need food planning strategies. "The nearby town of Groton has a gas station with a small grocery store for all the most important staples (marshmallows, chocolate, bread, beer)," mentions Shari G., highlighting limited shopping options.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for children: Little River State Park Campground offers family-friendly cabin locations. "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," recommends Rita M.
Multi-day activities: Plainfield region cabin camping supports extended stays. "We visited here with our 5 kiddos for 2 nights late July 2016. The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water," shares Rita M. about Little River State Park.
Guided outdoor programming: Rangers provide structured learning opportunities. "The ranger programming was exceptional, as are the views and the nearby areas for hiking and backpacking," notes Harry H. about Smugglers Notch State Park.
Weather preparation: Mountain cabin conditions change rapidly. "Stayed in October and it was really quiet and relaxing. There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," advises Michele S., emphasizing the need for weather planning without access to forecasts.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: Mountain View Campground offers cabin options for RVers seeking temporary shelter. "We stayed in a cabin and it was absolutely wonderful. It was clean and had everything we needed. All of the buildings were meticulously kept and the staff were incredibly friendly," reports Sarah C.
Winter hookup considerations: Seasonal closing dates reflect freezing conditions. "We stayed here 2 nights. Wanted to see the sights like Green Mountain Coffee, Ben and Jerry's and Trapp Family Lodge. Nice quite place. We had a pull through, and nice green grass sights," shares Craig F. about Lazy Lions Campground, noting the importance of level sites.
Road access limitations: Cabin access varies by season and vehicle type. "Getting here isn't direct or easy, but the reward is worth it," mentions Shari G. about Ricker Pond State Park, highlighting the challenging mountain roads.
Extended stay utilities: For cabin campers bringing RVs, utility planning matters. "Your patio opens to a neighbor but the sites are far enough away that it's not a bother and you don't feel like you are on top of them," notes Nancy W. about cabin camping at Moose River Campground.
