Glamping options near Vernon, Vermont range from yurts to cabins across multiple state parks within driving distance. Most accommodations operate seasonally from late May through mid-October due to the region's cold winters and moderate summers. The area sits in the southern Green Mountains region where elevations range from 300 to 3,000 feet, creating diverse camping environments from riverside sites to mountain views.
What to do
Riverside recreation: Ashuelot River Campground offers water activities right from camp. "Great riverfront location. Huge sites and a very helpful owner. What more could you want?" notes Wayne B. The river provides relaxing float opportunities as Michael M. describes: "Beautiful river to float down or paddle up. Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground."
Winter rafting alternatives: During the off-season when glamping accommodations close, Zoar Outdoor remains open for adventure activities. "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river. It's close to where locals jump off outcrops into the lazy river and hang out on the river side," explains Seth K.
Rail trail access: The old railway systems offer car-free exploration routes. "You can pick up the Ashuelot Rail Trail at the campground. They have canoes and kayaks on site, plus a shuttle service for water sports or biking," says Carry M. about Ashuelot River Campground.
What campers like
Privacy variations: Site selection matters for those seeking seclusion. At Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground, "Many of the sites (most of the ones on the periphery of the campground) are wooded and somewhat secluded, with 1-3 being the most secluded," reports Kris M. "We stayed in site 1, and we could barely see our neighbor's fire at night, because there were so many trees between us."
Clean facilities: Otter River State Forest maintains high standards year-round. "So clean, quiet, friendly staff, great trails and lots of exploring and lounging by the fire," says Anna B. Another camper adds, "The bathrooms were clean and water was easy close to the camp ground. If you drive they have a great breakfast place about two miles from the camp ground."
Unique accommodations: Less common glamping options exist beyond standard yurts and cabins. "They also offer 4 cabins, though under 2020 coronavirus precautions, these are unavailable. They do offer views of ponds," notes Jean C. about Savoy Mountain State Forest, showing how site amenities can vary seasonally.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically between sites. At Shir-Roy Camping Area, which offers glamping options, campers enjoy being disconnected. For those needing to stay connected, "I had a flicking bar of coverage at the high point of the campground on Verizon, but all you MIGHT be able to do is text," advises Jean C. about Savoy Mountain.
Route planning essential: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. "Don't rely on gps to get you there it will put you on the wrong end of the park in the middle of a rural neighborhood," warns Bill K. Another camper advises, "Highly suggest reading the directions on the campgrounds website about the covered bridge you're not allowed to cross- we discovered this the hard way."
Seasonal availability: Most glamping facilities shut down after Columbus Day weekend. "With 2020 coronavirus restrictions, reservations must be made in advance. Out of state guests will pay a significantly higher fee," notes one camper, highlighting that even when available, policies can change between seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Woodford State Park Campground provides child-oriented programming. "If you're looking for a quiet spot maybe don't look here. If you have kids and don't mind them making friends and roaming the campground then this is great! Boat rentals!" says J L.
Playground access: Some sites provide better facilities for younger children. "A great escape from the world right now. All staff has masks on and it's spotless here," notes Dakota B. about Molly Stark State Park, where clean facilities matter for family stays.
Weekend events: Seasonal activities can enhance family visits. "They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through," reports Jason A. about the Northampton/Springfield KOA, showing how special events can occur during fall glamping season.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Molly Stark State Park Campground accommodates various RVs but has limitations. "This is a great campground for on the road campers. It is near Route 9 so not much quiet during the day, but at night its great," explains Angelica H., highlighting how road noise affects certain sites.
Hookup variations: Power availability differs between glamping sites. "We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was level and easy to get into and park," reports Rae-Ann W. about camping near the region, pointing out that utility access matters for extended stays.
Seasonal site quality: Ground conditions change throughout operating months. "The tent site itself was very small and barely fit my truck and tent. It was made smaller still because of the mud and holes on the perimeter of the site," notes Sara Q., showing how weather affects site usability even during open seasons.
