Campgrounds in the Sharon, Vermont region sit at elevations between 500-1,500 feet in the Connecticut River Valley. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, while summer camping season brings daytime temperatures averaging 75-80°F. Most campgrounds in this region operate from late May through mid-October, with state parks typically closing after Columbus Day weekend.
What to do
Hiking to scenic overlooks: Gifford Woods State Park Campground offers access to the Appalachian Trail directly through the park. As camper Kyle R. notes, "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." The campground serves as an excellent base for both casual and serious hikers.
Water recreation options: Rest N Nest Campground provides swimming opportunities in their pond or pool. According to Jen C., they offer "Pull through, back in, tent sites" and many campers visit "every memorial day for their 1 set of awning to awning sites." The campground's swimming areas provide welcome relief during hot summer days.
Seasonal activities: Fall foliage viewing peaks from late September through mid-October near Silver Lake State Park Campground. The campground offers excellent autumn scenery as camper Savannah C. describes: "Surrounded by breathtaking mountain-scapes. Facilities are nice and the lake is lovely with some great fishing. You can swim, walk around it or rent a vessel to cruise around in."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of facilities at Quechee-Pine Valley KOA. Nancy W. shares, "As a whole, the park was very clean and manicured. No trash laying around and the gravel roads were free of potholes." This attention to maintenance creates a comfortable camping experience even for those new to outdoor stays.
Private campsites: Many visitors appreciate the site layout at Coolidge State Park Campground. According to Cliff M., "This place gets my vote for best campground in Vermont. Especially true if you're lucky enough to get one of the few sites on the outside of A loop that has a Lean-to with a view." The strategic placement of campsites provides privacy even during busy periods.
Pet exercise areas: Lake Champagne Resort provides dedicated spaces for pets. Christopher S. notes the campground has "very spacious dog parks, one for big dos and one for little ones." These designated areas allow pets to exercise safely while maintaining clean grounds throughout the property.
What you should know
Reservation timing: The most desirable sites at Gifford Woods State Park Campground book quickly, particularly for weekends and holidays. Camper Emil shared, "Get a site in the upper loop if you can, but no complaints for not making advance reservations on July 4th weekend." Reservations open approximately 11 months in advance for most campgrounds in the region.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have highway proximity that affects noise levels. Douglas L. mentions that at Quechee State Park, "The grounds were quite at night" despite being near the road, while Tara S. notes, "Camping was fairly quiet, except for the noise from the road, which is very close to the park."
Pricing variations: Costs can fluctuate significantly based on timing and site selection. Christopher S. reports at Lake Champagne Resort: "I booked in November of last year for May of this year and was charged 75 dollars a night. When I finally got someone on the phone in April, I asked about the pricing as was told that I should have been charged 65 dollars a night."
Tips for camping with families
Youth programs: Look for scheduled activities led by park staff. At Quechee State Park, rangers organize educational events for children throughout the summer. Jen B. shares, "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.)"
Playground access: Henderson's Hideaway provides riverside recreation options ideal for families. As Tessa H. reports, "They offer their 'tubin taxi' which gives you tubes and a ride up the river and back once you float down." This activity appeals particularly to families with older children.
Site selection for privacy: For families needing space, Jan B. recommends at Quechee State Park: "If you stay in the back it's quieter. The bathroom is very clean. They offer showers that cost you a few quarters." Selecting sites farther from main roads and facilities often provides more space for children to play.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most state parks lack electrical hookups, while private campgrounds offer more services. At Rest N Nest, Jen C. describes it as "Primitive, woodsy full hookups!" providing a balance between natural setting and conveniences.
Site leveling challenges: Pay attention to site descriptions when booking. At Coolidge State Park, William P. notes, "I accidently booked a tent site, and my popup camper and truck almost didn't fit. We will have to go back and get a shelter site."
Dump station access: For those traveling with RVs, Quechee State Park provides necessary facilities. Chris A. shares, "There are plenty of fresh water spigots and a spacious dump site if needed," making this state park workable for shorter RV stays despite lacking full hookups.