Camping opportunities around Plainfield, Vermont range from state park campgrounds to private glamping facilities in the North East Kingdom. Situated at around 1,200 feet elevation in Washington County, this region experiences cool summer nights with average temperatures dropping into the 50s, even during July and August. Many campgrounds operate seasonally, with most facilities closing between mid-October and late May due to harsh Vermont winters.
What to do
Morning paddling: Ricker Pond State Park offers a motor-free pond environment. Rachel N. shared, "Staying at Ricker Pond was awesome. It was late in the season and mid week so it was pretty quiet around the park. Also super close to some great hikes like owls head. The pond is really nice especially since very few motor boats are on the pond."
Historical exploration: Little River State Park contains old settlement ruins. Rita M. noted, "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." The trails feature remnants of homesteads from before the 1927 flood and dam construction.
Winter camping: Smugglers Notch State Park offers free off-season lean-to sites. Ed M. shared, "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. No facilities off season…Carry out all trash/waste."
What campers like
Private sites: Well-spaced campsites provide solitude. At Big Deer State Park, Tim R. observed, "Very nice sites, most have good privacy and are rather large - many of them also have large boulders around them! Access to Boulder Beach is included, which is a short walk or drive down the road."
Natural soundscape: Loon calls enhance the overnight experience. Many visitors mention falling asleep to wildlife sounds. At Stillwater State Park, Carley D. commented, "This campground was fantastic! Tucked away in a beautiful part of Vermont, the campground is right on Groton Lake with a swimming area and designated boat launch."
Seasonal flower displays: Some campsites feature intentional plantings. Shari G. mentioned about Ricker Pond State Park, "The staff have gone the extra mile and planted flowers along many of the choicest camping areas." These natural gardens enhance the camping experience from late spring through fall.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Prepare for disconnection. Michele S. warned about Ricker Pond, "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly." Multiple campgrounds throughout Groton State Forest report similar connectivity issues.
Quarters needed: Shower facilities require coins at most state parks. Ashley L. noted about Ricker Pond State Park, "Bathrooms are clean and take quarters. Wood and ice are able for purchase." Plan to bring $1-2 in quarters per shower.
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly, especially waterfront options. Neena B. advised, "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). My favorite lean to site is directly on the water, private, and fills up fast."
Glamping in Plainfield, Vermont: Luxury camping options exist but require advance planning. Multiple campgrounds in Groton State Forest offer lean-to shelters as entry-level glamping accommodations, while some provide more elaborate setups with raised platforms.
Tips for camping with families
Rail trail access: Several campgrounds connect directly to the Cross Vermont Trail. At Little River State Park, Alison O. shared, "I would highly recommend this campground to anyone looking to visit the Stowe/Waterbury area. We had easy access to hikes in Stowe, plus the Ben and Jerry's shop is about 20 minutes down the road!"
Shallow swimming: Some beach areas better for young children. Rita M. stated about Little River, "The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water." These protected swimming areas provide safer options for families with small children.
Tent-only loops: Specialized areas offer better biking for kids. Rita M. commented about Ricker Pond, "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. Nice pavilion and the pond was wonderful for canoes and kayaks."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Full-service sites are scarce. At North Beach Campground, Laura L. shared, "We loved being able to walk down to the beach, as well as having full hookups. We also met the nicest people here. You can purchase firewood at the office, and there are also propane options." Call ahead to confirm hookup availability.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. Heather C. noted about Singing Wood Farm, "The sites in the field are generally un-level, and we had to really work to level our trailer." Bring extra leveling blocks when glamping near Plainfield, Vermont with an RV.
Centralized dump stations: Plan for no-sewer camping at most state parks. Dennis M. advised about Littleton/Franconia Notch KOA, "My only disappointment with the camp is that there are only a few sites with sewer hookup. However, the dumping station is conveniently located, so if you have a small tank, daily trips are not a problem."