Shrewsbury, Vermont sits at an elevation of approximately 1,200 feet in the western foothills of the Green Mountains. The region receives significant snowfall in winter months, with camping season typically running May through October when temperatures range from 45°F to 80°F. The surrounding terrain features dense mixed hardwood forests interspersed with mountain streams and small ponds.
What to do
Hiking and mountain biking: Branbury State Park Campground offers access to extensive trail systems. "There are approximately 50 campsites split across two areas. One section is heavily wooded and the other is an open grassy area near the shore of Lake Dunmore," notes one reviewer at Branbury State Park. The park connects to multiple hiking and biking trails in the surrounding Green Mountain National Forest.
Fishing opportunities: Luzerne Campground, about 40 miles west of Shrewsbury, provides excellent angling. "Nice swim at your own risk beach (no guards), boat rentals, good fishing," mentions a visitor to Luzerne Campground. The campground's lake is stocked with rainbow trout by the State of New Hampshire.
Winter activities: The region transforms during winter months with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing becoming popular on many of the same trails used for summer hiking. Several campgrounds maintain limited winter facilities, though most close completely from November through April.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer well-separated campsites. At Moreau Lake State Park, visitors appreciate that "campsites are spacious, shady, and had good separation between the neighboring sites which we enjoyed."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high on camper priorities. One visitor to Tippicanoe Campground noted, "Everything is immaculate from the bathrooms, shower, clubhouse, store and grounds so you can relax and know that the kids are safe and you will be stress-free for your stay."
Water recreation: Lakes and ponds provide swimming and boating options. A Luzerne Campground visitor shared, "We always get our site close to the lake so we can walk down and swim and my husband fishes. The showers are so nice and private and clean. Love that we can rent boats too."
What you should know
Horse camping limitations: While looking for horse campgrounds near Shrewsbury, Vermont, options remain limited. One campground reviewer for Luzerne noted it as "The only campground in all of New York that acquires to house back riders. There are campsites that also come with stalls for your horse!" This makes it one of the few equestrian-friendly options in the broader region.
Seasonal timing: Most campgrounds operate on limited seasonal schedules. NV Farms Outfitters and Cabins offers drinking water and allows pets but has no electric hookups, making it better suited for warmer months. Their walk-in or hike-in access may present challenges for those with horses or extensive equipment.
Reservation requirements: During peak summer months (July-August), campgrounds fill quickly. Most regional campgrounds require reservations at least 2-3 weeks in advance, with holiday weekends often booking months ahead.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Moreau Lake provides excellent swimming options for families. "The beach area seems to be a draw for people so the summer camping season is probably packed. The snack bar and gift/supplies shop at the sandy beach area were not open as we were there late in the season," notes one visitor, highlighting the importance of timing your visit.
Playgrounds and activities: Branbury State Park offers family-friendly facilities. "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. There's a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits," reports one family visitor.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage. A Branbury visitor warns, "Just make sure you put your food and trash away - there are black bears in the area!" Most campgrounds provide metal food lockers or recommend hanging food at least 10 feet high and 4 feet from any tree trunk.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Shrewsbury offer only basic amenities for RVs. While some provide electric hookups, full-service sites with water, electric and sewer connections are limited. One visitor to Moreau Lake noted, "This is dry camping so there are no hook-ups but there are restrooms and shower."
Access challenges: Large rigs may face difficulties on narrow forest roads. At Moreau Lake, "The road to our campsite was paved and in good shape but there were a few tight spots because of the trees that make it tricky for a big rig (Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs)."
Generator policies: Quiet hours and generator restrictions vary by location. At most campgrounds near Shrewsbury, generators must be turned off between 10pm and 7am. Some campgrounds have specific hours when generators are allowed to run during the day.
