Vermont's Reading area sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation in the Green Mountains, experiencing cool nights even in summer with daytime temperatures typically reaching the mid-70s to low 80s. The region features a mix of state parks and private campgrounds within 30 minutes of Reading, most operating from mid-May through mid-October. Campsites in this area tend to fill quickly during fall foliage season.
What to do
Hiking to scenic vistas: At Gifford Woods State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple trails including the Appalachian Trail which runs directly through the park. "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," notes Kyle R. The park offers connections to longer trails including routes to Killington Peak.
Swimming in natural settings: Emerald Lake State Park Campground provides a small, sandy beach with swimming access to its turquoise waters. "Swimmers can swim out to a small island in the middle of the lake and check out the rope swing," mentions Tara S. The lake is particularly refreshing during summer months when temperatures climb.
Exploring historical sites: The Reading area provides easy access to historical attractions including the Marsh Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park in nearby Woodstock. Quechee Pine Valley KOA serves as a convenient base, with one camper noting, "The campground is located near the Quechee Gorge, covered bridges, hiking trails, good dining, maple syrup/cheese farm, the Marsh Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park."
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance of facilities across Reading area campgrounds. At Quechee State Park Campground, visitors appreciate "immaculate" bathrooms with Jan B. noting, "The bathroom is very clean. They offer showers that cost you a few quarters. The staff and volunteers are very helpful."
Natural water features: Multiple campgrounds offer water access for recreation. Crows Nest Campground features riverside camping with "nice, quiet, shaded riverside sites and other sites options as well," according to Brenda H., who adds that "pallets of firewood are delivered to your site and reasonably priced."
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds near Reading cater to families with activities and facilities. Emerald Lake State Park Campground has "a nice field for kids to play in, and clean washrooms," notes Tara S., while another visitor mentions that "Rangers also run fun programs for children — my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee)."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the Reading area operate from mid-May through mid-October. At Gifford Woods State Park Campground, sites in the "Upper Loop sites are spaced further apart" according to Rachel C., making them preferable for those seeking more privacy during busy periods.
Site selection matters: Reading area campgrounds vary widely in terms of privacy and setup. When glamping near Reading, Vermont, site selection becomes important. "Look carefully at the map when choosing your site. Many of them are near the main road. Sites aren't particularly level or large," warns Jean C. about Rogers Rock Campground.
Utility limitations: Most state parks have limited hookups. Quechee State Park Campground has "no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in a RV," according to Jan B. Plan accordingly for power needs, especially when glamping in cooler weather.
Internet connectivity: Cell service and WiFi can be spotty throughout the region. As Dave S. notes about Lake Bomoseen KOA, "There is NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect," which is typical for many campgrounds in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Reserve early for preferred sites: Family-friendly sites at popular campgrounds book quickly. At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, "Larchmont is our favorite camp site. It is much larger than most sites, a short walk to the showers and a bit tucked away for privacy. We had two tents set up there, which is impossible for most sites," shares Ming R.
Choose locations with kid-friendly amenities: When glamping with children near Reading, look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment. Jen B. recommends Quechee State Park Campground as "Clean and quiet, good for kids and pets are welcome... Rangers also run fun programs for children."
Consider proximity to attractions: Select campgrounds that minimize travel time to activities. Caton Place Campground offers "Clean Campground and owners are helpful and friendly. Clean facilities," says Anne R., providing a comfortable glamping base near Reading's attractions.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many Vermont campgrounds weren't originally designed for larger RVs. At Crows Nest Campground, Brandon C. observes "90% of the campers are RVs here" but notes the "river sites are pretty close together with little privacy."
Prepare for limited hookups: Most state parks offer minimal services for RVers. Chris A. notes at Quechee State Park Campground, "The sites are nicely spaced and seem to accommodate big rigs rather well. We have seen all shapes and sizes come and go... There are plenty of fresh water spigots and a spacious dump site if needed."
Plan for uneven terrain: Vermont's mountainous landscape creates challenges at some sites. At Lake Bomoseen KOA, Dave S. reports "The sites are a good size and relatively level," making it workable for their "36ft 5th wheel but manageable."
