Glamping near Springfield, Vermont presents diverse camping options beyond the upscale canvas tents. Located in the Connecticut River Valley at roughly 400 feet elevation, this region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping months. Winter snow accumulation makes most campgrounds seasonal operations with closures from late October through mid-May.
What to do
Hike to mountain views: At Gifford Woods State Park Campground, campers can access the Appalachian Trail directly from the campground. "We stayed in the Elm lean-to, which sits up on a wooded hill. The only down side is that the lean-to opening faces the road instead of the woods, which would have been better for privacy," notes one reviewer. The park offers trails to Deer Leap Overlook and connections to nearby mountain hikes.
River activities: Tubing and paddling opportunities exist on local waterways near many campgrounds. "We took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit," shares a visitor at Ashuelot River Campground.
Family recreation: Many campgrounds offer scheduled activities beyond hiking. "Between the beach, the mini golf, playground, and an entire shed of recreation items available to use this place is amazing! Activities are scheduled throughout the season," reports a camper at Loon Lake Campground.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: The regional campgrounds often feature tree-lined sites. "The campground is a large park that is terraced since it is in a pretty hilly area. There is the range of sites from pull-thrus, pull-ins and back-in sites and can accommodate RVs of any size," explains a visitor at Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.
Clean facilities: Maintained bathrooms rank high on camper priorities. "This is such a well maintained park. Well taken care of sites, gardens all around, cute lean-tos, new bathrooms/showers, hiking trail to MT. Olga, and friendly staff," mentions a camper at Molly Stark State Park Campground.
Waterfront options: Campgrounds with water access receive positive feedback. "The sites are large. If you stay in the back it's quieter. The bathroom is very clean. They offer showers that cost you a few quarters. There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in a RV," notes a reviewer about Quechee State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most camping options operate within specific date ranges. Gifford Woods runs from May 19 to October 16, while Emerald Lake operates Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend.
Road noise concerns: Some campgrounds sit near busy roads. "The park is close to good shopping, and also the Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park in Woodstock, which is an awesome destination for families. Camping was fairly quiet, except for the noise from the road, which is very close to the park," cautions a camper at Quechee State Park.
Site selection importance: Campground layouts vary considerably. "Sites 66 & 55 seemed to be the most private. There's nice little swimming area on the river for kids. Close to the Sugar River Rail trail for biking. Definitely not a wilderness experience, but pleasant," advises a visitor at Crow's Nest Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. "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). Pets are welcome," shares a visitor at Quechee State Park.
Swimming options: Water access provides important recreation. "Beautiful campground in south central Vermont. On a lovely emerald green small lake with nice beach. Good for fishing and kayaking. Well kept. Was very quiet when we visited though I suspect it's much busier in mid summer," notes a camper at Emerald Lake State Park Campground.
Safety considerations: Some sites present challenges for young children. "Many of them are perched on a steep ledge, making them a bit sketchy for families with kids. If you have little ones, check out the map before you reserve a site and find one on the opposite side of the ledge," advises an Emerald Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site navigation: RV access varies between campgrounds. "Camped here Labor Day Weekend in our 40 ft 5th wheel. We had a pull thru site. Easy to drive into the campground and into the site. We had no issues at all. Hosts were very friendly and helpful," explains a visitor at Caton Place Campground.
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections aren't universal. "Some sites are full hookup while others are not and that is reflected in the cost. We paid $57/night for our full hookup site which is pretty costly especially since we did not use any of the amenities," notes a camper at Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.
Size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "This past holiday weekend we went to the campground. Upon arrival the owner made me go with them to the site and leave the motorhome blocking the entrance into the campground. The roads aren't wide enough to take a motorhome into," cautions a visitor about Caton Place.
