Sunderland camping options range from primitive dispersed sites to full-service campgrounds across elevations of 600 to 2,900 feet. The highest point in the region is Stratton Mountain at 3,940 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F with mountain locations often 10-15 degrees cooler than valley floors. Dispersed camping areas along Forest Road 71 provide free alternatives to established campgrounds but require campers to pack out all waste.
What to do
Paddling at Somerset Reservoir: Access the large, undeveloped water body from Somerset Airfield for kayaking and fishing. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes one Somerset Airfield visitor.
Explore Stratton Pond Trail: This moderate 4.6-mile hiking trail near Forest Road 71 leads to mountain views. A camper mentions, "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT," making Stratton Pond Camp a good base for hikers.
Swim at Adams Reservoir: The lake at Woodford offers swimming in Vermont's highest elevation state park campground. "There is a small, sandy beach at one end of the lake, with a bath house and changing rooms nearby. Swimmers can swim out to a small island in the middle of the lake," reports a visitor.
Tube the Battenkill River: Gentle rapids provide family-friendly tubing opportunities. "We also tube down the river. Very clean restrooms and nice staff," shares a camper at Camping on the Battenkill.
What campers like
High elevation camping: At 2,400 feet, Woodford offers cooler summer temperatures. "Great place to camp and access nearby hiking including the AT and LT. Clean lodge (hostel) for hikers; access to a kitchen and showers as well," writes a Woodford State Park guest.
Riverside sites: Campsites along water are consistently rated highest. "We had a lean to site at this campground. Facilities were great. The lake was beautiful and rented boats and canoes. Swimming is also available. Good central location," shares a visitor at Emerald Lake State Park.
Dispersed camping privacy: Free camping options on Forest Service roads offer more seclusion. "One of many locations along Forest rd 71, this spot was a good place to pitch a tent for the night while exploring the area even in the rain," notes a camper about the dispersed sites.
Clean facilities: State parks maintain high cleanliness standards. "The bathrooms were the cleanest campground bathrooms I've ever seen! The campsites are pretty big and somewhat private which is nice," comments a Woodford State Park visitor.
What you should know
Variable cell service: Many camping areas have limited connectivity. "No service or wifi," notes a Winhall Brook camper, while others report, "2 bars of USCellular LTE" at Stratton Pond Camp.
Seasonal weather challenges: Spring conditions often involve mud and potential access issues. "This was a great site. I couldn't believe that the site was not being used at all, especially just a couple of days before Fourth of July weekend," shares a camper about Jamaica State Park.
Shower tokens required: Many state parks require quarters for showers. "Pay showers so save your quarters. Nice lake for canoeing with trails from the camping area," advises a camper about Emerald Lake.
Limited hookups: Most state parks offer minimal or no RV hookups. "There are a few sites with hookups but since we like to be near the river, we opted for other areas," explains a visitor about campsite selection.
Tips for camping with families
River swimming spots: Shallow water areas are best for children. "We were at site 17, and it was a massive site. Lots of room would be great for a large family or group. The beach on the river is beautiful and clean! Easy swimming for all," reports a Camping on the Battenkill visitor.
Lean-to shelters: These structures provide extra weather protection for families. "Leantos at this state park give you protection from the elements - mind you not all sites have a leanto. Sites are on top of each other but some are more spacious and away from the others," explains an Emerald Lake camper.
Playgrounds and open spaces: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "We had a lean to site at this campground. Facilities were great... nice clean restrooms and nice staff. Fun playground and nature area for kids," says a Jamaica State Park reviewer.
Book early for summer weekends: Family-friendly sites fill quickly. "This is a popular campground so reserve as early as 11 months before arrival," advises an Emerald Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate bigger RVs. "Larger rigs might want to avoid loop 6-14, especially for sites 8-12. Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver," warns a visitor at Dorset RV Park.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds close roads during mud season. "Spring visits may encounter muddy, rutted forest roads unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles," explains a recent camper.
Dump station availability: Check campground amenities before booking. "The hookups were all well-placed and we didn't have any issues with the electric and the wifi at our site worked well," notes a Dorset RV Park visitor.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling blocks. "Our site was level but some definitely were not," reports an RVer at Dorset RV Park.
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