Vermont's camping options around Shelburne extend beyond the immediate town borders, with notable campgrounds scattered throughout the Champlain Valley. The region sits at approximately 200-400 feet elevation with the nearby Adirondacks rising to 4,000+ feet to the west. Camping season typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with fall temperatures dropping into the 30s at night.
What to do
Lake activities: Visit Lone Pine Campsites in Colchester for easy access to Lake Champlain. "The lake is a short walk down the street," notes one camper, making it convenient for water recreation. Another visitor mentioned they "drove our bikes to the lake bike path" during their stay.
Historical exploration: Drive 1 hour to Fort Ticonderoga near Brookwood RV Resort. "Ft. Ticonderoga is a few miles to the north where you can explore history with re-enactors," shares a reviewer. Another camper confirmed it's "easy access to Fort Ticonderoga, restaurants in town and Lake George area."
Mountain adventures: Plan day trips to Smugglers Notch State Park for hiking. This area offers trails ranging from easy to challenging. "Very close to Smuggs and only a short but beautiful ride to Stowe," mentions a visitor at Smugglers Notch RV Village, highlighting the convenient location for mountain activities.
What campers like
Private swimming: Enjoy natural water features at certain locations. One camper at Davey Falls ADK described their experience as an "amazing secluded creekside spot. Private waterfall, hiking trails."
Pool facilities: Access maintained swimming pools when lake swimming isn't preferred. A visitor at Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks shared that "the kids loved the gem mining and train rides!! We enjoyed the water view and the staff was so nice to us!"
Recreation amenities: Take advantage of on-site activities for families. "Nice pool, game room, and little store. It's a fun place for families!" reports a visitor about Lone Pine Campsites. Another mentioned "multiple pools, activity center, playgrounds, ball courts" making it ideal for extended stays.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer spacious sites while others are compact. At Brookside RV Camping, a camper noted they offer "nice flat sites and electric hookups," and the location is "just off of a one-way paved road."
Road conditions can be challenging: Many access roads aren't maintained for larger rigs. At Iroquois Campground & RV Park, a camper mentioned the "roadway a little rough but overall ok," which might affect arrival for larger vehicles.
Reservation timing matters: Most campgrounds fill quickly for fall foliage season. "We will be coming back this year," mentioned one camper at Smugglers Notch RV Village, indicating its popularity requires booking well ahead.
Noise levels vary by location: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. A Lone Pine Campsites visitor noted "there is noise from the highway but it eventually became white noise to us," something to consider when selecting sites.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Select sites near play areas for convenience. At Lone Pine Campsites, one family had a site "right next to the playground so our daughter could walk straight to it without having to cross a road. And speaking of playground, it was large and very nice."
Choose campgrounds with kid-friendly activities: Several locations offer special programs. A family staying at Alburg RV Resort reported "there is a big playground which keeps the kids busy" and mentioned "a big long sandy beach, a rec hall, and lots of games to play."
Consider shower facilities: Not all bathhouses are created equal. At Iroquois Campground & RV Park, a camper reported facilities were "dated but nice," noting "staff very friendly, under new ownership."
Pack for variable weather: Vermont temperatures can fluctuate 30+ degrees in a single day. Bring layers and rain gear even in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup specifics: Amperage varies between campgrounds. At Smugglers Notch RV Village, RVers appreciate that "they offer a variety of different sites to fit each campers needs" including "full hookups" with both "30 and 50-amp electrical service."
Site leveling requirements: Many Vermont campgrounds have uneven terrain. A visitor at Brookwood RV Resort appreciated their "level, shaded site" with "full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP)," making setup easier.
Research seasonal parks: Some rv parks near Shelburne, Vermont operate primarily for long-term stays. At Shady Oaks Camping Resort, a reviewer noted it was "mostly seasonal sites with only one overnight site that I saw" and "no tents allowed," which affects availability for short visits.
Water conservation may be required: Some campgrounds have usage restrictions. At Brookwood RV Resort, a camper mentioned that during drought conditions "water conservation is essential," something to plan for with tank usage.
