Glamping experiences near Peru, Vermont cluster between 2,000 and 2,500 feet elevation, offering a transitional climate between lower valleys and higher peaks of the Green Mountains. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-75°F with cooler evenings requiring extra layers even during July and August. Fall glamping season extends through mid-October when foliage reaches peak colors and overnight temperatures regularly drop to near freezing.
What to do
Paddle on serene waters: Emerald Lake State Park provides a beautiful lake for kayaking and canoeing with boat rentals available on site. "Beautiful campground in south central Vermont. On a lovely emerald green small lake with nice beach. Good for fishing and kayaking," notes Christina S. The lake's vibrant color makes it particularly photogenic for morning paddling when the water is calmest.
Hike to mountain views: Gifford Woods State Park Campground connects directly to the Appalachian Trail with multiple difficulty levels of hiking. "The park has a nice grassy area on the water that's dog-friendly, and a separate little no-dog swimming and paddle boat area. Trails were pretty enough if basic, Park also provided a guide to nearby hiking," explains one camper. The Deer Leap Overlook offers significant views with a moderate 2.5-mile hike.
Fish the local waters: Woodford State Park has fishing opportunities with multiple spots to cast from shore. "The sites are pretty big and somewhat private which is nice. They also have cabins you can rent which is nice. There's a small reservoir with a little beach that you can swim or kayak/canoe in. There's a bunch of fish and other little creatures so it's fun to explore," shares Jenny A. Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased online or at local tackle shops.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Molly Stark State Park Campground offers well-maintained camping areas with thoughtful layouts. "I pulled in mid week at about 5pm looking for a tent site for the night. I got site #5, it was very private & quiet. The bathrooms where very clean," explains Alyssa F. The outer ring sites provide the most seclusion while inner sites offer easier bathroom access.
Clean facilities: Quechee State Park Campground maintains exceptionally clean facilities according to multiple visitors. "Might be the nicest bathrooms I've seen in decades of camping. 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," notes Jan B. The park provides both standard and accessible bathroom facilities with hot water available.
Water access: Many campers appreciate the proximity to swimming areas at area campgrounds. "We were able to walk down to the second loop and parked on the side of the campground road and carried our kayaks down to the camper's beach. Our dog loved getting a little swim," shares Melissa S. about her Woodford State Park experience. Most water access points have gradual entries suitable for children.
What you should know
Seasonality factors: Most glamping accommodations in the region operate from Memorial Day through mid-October. "We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning. We're going back later this summer for a longer stay," writes Melissa S. about Woodford State Park. Bookings for weekend dates in July and August should be made 6-9 months in advance for yurts and safari tents.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise that may affect light sleepers. "There is some road noise from the campground at night, but overall this is a pretty fantastic camping experience," notes Gary C. about Emerald Lake State Park. Sites further from main roads typically provide quieter experiences.
Shower facilities: Ashuelot River Campground and other area parks have token or quarter-operated showers. "The bathrooms were clean. Token operated showers that we didn't use this time," mentions Melissa S. Most showers cost $0.25-0.50 per 3-5 minutes of water, so bring quarters if planning to shower frequently.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly programming: Vermont state parks often provide ranger-led activities. "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)," shares Jen B. about Quechee State Park. Program schedules are typically posted at bathhouses or visitor centers.
Swimming options: Emerald Lake State Park provides excellent swimming for families with children. "We try and get to Emerald Lake State Park at least a few times every summer. It's an awesome park for kids, and the turquoise water is a dream to cool off in. There's a small, sandy beach at one end of the lake, with a bath house and changing rooms nearby," explains Tara S. The swimming areas typically have gradual entry points.
Site selection for kids: Consider campsite locations when traveling with children. "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 Tara S. about Emerald Lake. Maps with topographical information are available on the Vermont State Parks reservation website to identify level sites.
Tips from RVers
Tight turns: Some local glamping sites have limited maneuvering space. "The roads aren't wide enough to take a motorhome into. The pull through site is not level and is barely long enough to fit my 43' rig," cautions Jim B. about Caton Place Campground. RVs over 30 feet should verify access before booking at smaller campgrounds.
Limited hookups: Woodford State Park and several other glamping areas have minimal hookups for RVs. "No Electric or hookups. They also sell ice and firewood at the check in station," notes Chris A. about Quechee State Park. Generator usage is restricted at most state parks, so plan for battery or solar power when boondocking.
Dump station access: Most parks provide dump stations for RVers even when full hookups aren't available. "They do have a dump station if you are in a RV," confirms Jan B. Dump stations typically close 2 hours before park closing time, so plan accordingly when departing.
