Equestrian camping near Sheldon, Vermont requires planning as the landscape transitions between the northern Green Mountains and Lake Champlain Valley at elevations ranging from 400-1,000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer highs averaging 78°F and winter lows often below freezing. Most camping sites near Sheldon remain open from mid-May through mid-October due to the region's cold winters and spring mud season.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: AuSable Chasm Campground provides access to numerous hiking and biking paths. "I wish I had my bike!!! I didn't know that this was a biking campground and there were SO MANY trails. Made the most of them with running, but overall, a fantastic campground," notes Rebecca Y. after visiting AuSable Chasm Campground.
Water activities: Many visitors enjoy swimming and boating opportunities at nearby lakes. "The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use," shares Reid B. about his experience at Groton Forest Road Campground, located about 70 miles south of Sheldon.
Fishing: The region offers various fishing spots in lakes and streams. "Great for Campers and tenters. Good fishing and plenty of hiking," explains Chris H. regarding recreational options at Groton Forest Road Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained amenities. "The campground staff was friendly, and worked hard to keep the bathrooms and showers clean. The camp ground is within minutes of Ausable Chasm, which offers great hiking trails and rafting/tubing," reports Heather M. about her stay at AuSable Chasm Campground.
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out. "Sites were a medium distance apart but still spacious enough to not be close to neighbors. Showers and restrooms were nearby and it being a weekday, there really wasn't much traffic of campers or hikers," explains Levi M. about tent camping at AuSable Chasm.
Local attractions: The proximity to natural features and nearby towns enhances the camping experience. "This camp ground is a short drive to Lake Placid, Plattsburgh, Vermont State and so much more. The Chasm has their own store and cafe," mentions Susan S. regarding AuSable Chasm Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally. AuSable Chasm Campground operates from May 27 to October 14, making it important to plan visits during the warmer months.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. "Reservations are def a plus. Can be difficult to get into on the weekend," advises Saige V. about Groton Forest Road Campground.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have rustic access roads that can become challenging in wet weather. "The road through the campground is dirt and rutted but the speed limit is 5 mph, so it wasn't that bad, but it would be a mess if it was raining," cautions Lee D. about AuSable Chasm Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families appreciate designated play areas for children. "Pool was clean, play ground kids loved it. And facilities were clean, with hot showers," shares larry about his family's 4-day stay at AuSable Chasm Campground.
Activity options: The range of activities helps keep children entertained. "They are across the road from the Chasm to hike, Tube down the river, raft, rock climb, adventure course. They have a small store and rec room for kids," explains Susan S. regarding family-friendly amenities.
Site selection: End or corner sites often provide more space for families. "The site we had was quite large, I had booked an end site (#73) hoping it would be big!" reports Heather M. about her tent camping experience with electric and water hookups.
Tips from RVers
RV site limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on RV sizes and types. "We travel in a 17-foot camper van, but no one ever believes that we are no bigger than a standard cargo van and can easily fit in a regular size parking space. Upon arrival at Ausable Chasm, we were told we had to take a site with water and electric since we had a camper van," explains Lee D. about the classification policies at AuSable Chasm Campground.
Hookup availability: Electric, water, and dump station access varies by location. "Good sized site with electric and water. Shady but also had sun to dry our shoes from the raft tour," notes YM C. about the balance of shade and utility access at their campsite.
Seasonal RV options: For those seeking longer stays, researching management policies is essential. Some campgrounds offer seasonal options, though experiences vary significantly by location and campground management.