Glamping in South Royalton, Vermont benefits from the region's temperate summers with average highs around 78°F during peak season. The area sits at approximately 700 feet elevation within the White River Valley, providing access to the Connecticut River watershed. Seasonal operations typically run from late May through mid-October, when foliage colors transform the camping landscape.
What to do
Hiking near Quechee Gorge: Visitors staying at Quechee State Park Campground can access direct trails to Vermont's deepest gorge. "The Quechee Gorge, best accessed from the back of the lawn behind the bathhouse, is the deepest in Vermont... Prepared to be whelmed," notes one camper. The moderate trail takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the bottom where visitors can access some slow semi-rapids.
Paddle on Ricker Pond: The motorboat-free waters at Ricker Pond State Park Campground offer serene kayaking and canoeing. "A quiet camp ground on Ricker Pond, a motor free pond, is a wonderful way to spend the weekend. The pond is serene and a great place to swim, paddle, explore, and fish," writes a regular visitor. Boat rentals are available directly from the park for those without their own equipment.
Explore historical sites: The region contains numerous historical landmarks within short driving distance of camping areas. "Nearby hikes include the Bucklin Trail to the top of Killington, Sherburne Pass to Pico Peak, and Canty Trail to Blue Ridge Mountain. So many choices!" writes a visitor to Gifford Woods. Many trails connect to historical sites and former homesteads with educational signage.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Gifford Woods State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its spacious, naturally-separated campsites. "This campground is the number one rated in Vermont for a reason. The staff were wonderful, the sites are pristine and picturesque, the faculties are decorated with wildflowers," writes one visitor. Upper loop sites offer more separation between neighbors for added privacy.
Water access: Many campers value direct waterfront access at Little River State Park. "Some of the best sites are up on a bluff with views over the lake and towards sunrise," reports a regular visitor. The park offers both drive-in sites and paddle-in remote sites for those seeking more seclusion from neighboring campers.
Clean facilities: Quechee-Pine Valley KOA maintains well-regarded bathroom and shower facilities. "This campground is small and quaint and kept in immaculate condition. The staff are so courteous and informative," writes a repeat visitor. Another notes, "This is a quaint campground with nice bathrooms. The owners were very helpful, meeting all of our needs promptly and always with a smile."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Many campgrounds in the region have minimal cell service and WiFi access. At Lake Bomoseen KOA, "There is NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect," according to a recent visitor. This applies to most natural areas around South Royalton, making it important to download maps and information before arrival.
Seasonal considerations: Vermont campgrounds typically operate from May through mid-October. A visitor to Little River State Park Campground mentions, "We hit this campground for one overnight as we passed through. Good spot with easy access to the Gorge. Bathrooms were clean and the grounds were quite at night." Fall camping offers spectacular foliage but colder nights.
Shower arrangements: Most state parks have coin-operated showers requiring quarters. At Quechee State Park, "They offer showers that cost you a few quarters." Planning ahead with sufficient change helps avoid inconvenience, as ATM access may be limited in rural locations.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Families particularly enjoy the swimming opportunities at Moose Hillock Camping Resort, which features an elaborate pool complex. "This campground was clean, nice sites, private, amenities galore, friendly staff and AMAZING pool! Will definitely be back annually," writes one family. The elaborate pool includes water slides and is popular with children.
Ranger programs: Several state parks offer educational programming specifically designed for younger visitors. At Quechee State Park, "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)." These activities typically occur on weekends during peak summer months.
Navigational challenges: Some family-oriented resorts have hilly terrain that can pose difficulties. One visitor to Moose Hillock notes, "The hilly terrain is insaneeee! If you have never been before, book a sight as close as possible to the pool and office, because the further you get, the higher the altitude."
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: For those in larger rigs, Pine Haven Campground offers appropriate accommodations but requires careful site selection. "Multiple RVs, we were the only tent site at the time which made it very secluded and nice," notes a visitor who appreciated the spaciousness. RVs should note that many Vermont state parks have limited or no hookups available.
Hookup availability: Most state parks in the region offer limited electrical connections. At Quechee State Park, "There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in an RV." Planning for dry camping with solar or generator backup is advisable for extended stays.
Leveling requirements: The mountainous terrain means many sites require significant leveling. One RVer at Rogers Rock Campground mentioned, "Sites aren't particularly level or large." Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended for the varied terrain throughout the region.
