Vermont's Green Mountains create a diverse camping landscape around Sharon, with elevations ranging from 600 to 4,200 feet throughout the region. The Connecticut River marks the eastern boundary, providing additional water recreation options beyond the lakes and ponds mentioned in established campgrounds. Seasonal water sources in backcountry areas become most reliable from mid-June through September, though they can dry up during drought periods.
What to do
Hike the Deer Leap Trail: Access this moderate 4-mile round trip hike directly from Gifford Woods State Park Campground, where the Appalachian Trail runs through the property. "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.
Explore historic sites: The Calvin Coolidge historic homestead is located near Plymouth, about 20 minutes from many camping areas. "Make sure you visit Calvin Coolidge's historic home not far from the park," suggests Tim K. from Coolidge State Park, adding a cultural dimension to your outdoor adventure.
Wade in mountain streams: Several campgrounds offer access to water features beyond the main beaches. "We were able to walk to the gorge as well as to the Antique mall. The staff was very friendly and accommodating with us," explains William P. about his experience at Quechee State Park.
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Campers consistently mention site spacing as a positive feature. "The sites are large. If you stay in the back it's quieter," notes Jan B. about Quechee State Park Campground. The wooded environment creates natural separation between many sites.
Lean-to options: Many state parks in the area offer rustic lean-to shelters as alternatives to tent sites. "The lean-tos all have a great sense of privacy," notes Hannah H. about Silver Lake State Park. These structures provide protection from unexpected rain while maintaining a rustic camping experience.
Clean facilities: The region's campgrounds maintain high standards for bathroom facilities. "Might be the nicest bathrooms I've seen in decades of camping," reports one visitor at Gifford Woods State Park Campground. Most campgrounds offer coin-operated showers with reliable hot water.
What you should know
Limited backcountry water: When camping on the Appalachian Trail at sites like Winturri Shelter, water availability varies seasonally. "Note: This is a back country shelter on the Appalachian trail that doesn't have consistent water... Water was running when I was there in mid-August from a spring close to the shelter," reports Justin P. about Winturri Backcountry Shelter.
Road noise at some campgrounds: Several campgrounds in the region are situated near roadways. "Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant," mentions a reviewer about Quechee State Park. Sites further from entrance roads typically offer more tranquility.
Wildlife awareness: Black bears are active in the region. "We were advised that there was an active bear in the campground, but we took the advice of Sean the park ranger," shares Michael L. about his stay at Coolidge State Park. Proper food storage is essential at all camping locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly ranger programs: Some state parks offer educational activities for younger campers. "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)," shares Jen B. about her experience at Quechee State Park.
Swimming options for various ages: Several parks have designated swimming areas with features for different age groups. At Silver Lake, "The beach has wading depth, sand for playing, buoys to mark the shallow area, a large dock to jump from with a ladder for climbing out," according to Hannah H.
Resort-style camping alternatives: For families wanting more amenities, Quechee-Pine Valley KOA offers additional activities beyond standard camping. "There are campgrounds for all types of camping and they have Cabins for people who act like they enjoy camping but would rather be in a cabin then on the ground," explains Donna C., highlighting the options for less rustic family experiences.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookup options are limited to specific campgrounds like Quechee-Pine Valley KOA and Lake Champagne Resort. "There is the range of sites from pull-thrus, pull-ins and back-in sites and can accommodate RVs of any size. Some sites are full hookup while others are not," notes Nancy W.
Generator restrictions: Most state parks in the region prohibit generator use. "They do have a dump station if you are in a RV," explains Jan B. about Quechee State Park, but emphasizes the lack of hookups that might necessitate generator use.
RV site surfaces: Many campgrounds use gravel surfaces that may require leveling. "The issue I had was the camp next to ours had the generator on all night long," notes William P., highlighting potential challenges when staying at state parks with limited RV-specific amenities.
