The area surrounding Waitsfield, Vermont sits within the Mad River Valley at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,000 feet, offering varied camping terrain throughout the Green Mountains region. Summer temperatures typically range from 50°F at night to 78°F during the day, while fall brings cooler conditions with nighttime temperatures often dropping below 40°F. Most local campgrounds operate from May through mid-October, with many requiring early reservations during peak foliage season.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Access the extensive Mad River Riders trail network directly from several campgrounds in the region. As one visitor to Smugglers Notch RV Village noted, "Very close to Smuggs and only a short but beautiful ride to Stowe."
Swimming holes: Cool off in natural pools along the Mad River, within walking distance of many campsites. Near Branbury State Park Campground, "A five minute hike- though it is quite a rocky, boulder-y hike- from the sites leads to a small river and swimming hole."
Gem mining activities: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly prospecting experiences. At Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks, "The kids loved the gem mining and train rides!! We enjoyed the water view and the staff was so nice to us!"
Historic site exploration: The region features numerous historic attractions within short driving distance. A camper mentioned, "Fort Ticonderoga is a few miles to the north where you can explore history with re-enactors," when describing activities near local RV campgrounds.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many RV campgrounds near Waitsfield, Vermont offer well-spaced accommodations. At Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground, campers appreciate that "most sites are spacious and some good ones with privacy as well."
Natural water features: Campers consistently mention the appeal of waterfront locations. One visitor to Brookside RV Camping described it as "a great spot to stop for a night with your RV and enjoy the river for a night."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank high in camper reviews. A guest at Branbury State Park noted, "Bathrooms are flushing compost. However, there are only four showers for the whole campground," while another mentioned "bathrooms were always clean and well maintained."
Recreational amenities: On-site activities enhance the camping experience. Sugar Ridge offers "horse carriage rides, paved roads, 2 pools, playgrounds, mini golf, fireworks," according to one reviewer.
What you should know
Cell service variations: Reception can be unpredictable throughout the Green Mountains region. A camper at Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground reported "decent cell phone signal (Verizon)," while others noted spotty coverage in more remote areas.
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds in the area have restricted operating seasons. According to listing information, many RV campgrounds Waitsfield visitors might consider operate from "May 1 to Oct 31" or close even earlier depending on weather conditions.
Water conservation issues: Some campgrounds have water restrictions during dry periods. One reviewer noted that at a nearby RV park, "With COVID-19 restrictions this year, the bathrooms are closed to those who have facilities in their RV. There's also a drought and they're on a well, so water conservation is essential."
Wildlife considerations: Black bears are present in the region. A camper at Branbury State Park Campground advised, "Just make sure you put your food and trash away- there are black bears in the area!"
Tips for camping with families
Heated pools: Some campgrounds offer swimming options even during cooler weather. At Sugar Ridge, one family noted: "Kids were happy with the heated pool, horse rides, and other activities."
Playground options: Multiple play areas keep children entertained. A family staying at Sugar Ridge mentioned, "Dog friendly, mini golf, heated pool, two playgrounds, and crafts and fun things for the kids!"
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on proximity to amenities. At Branbury State Park, "There are approximately 50 campsites split across two areas. One section is heavily wooded and the other is an open grassy area near the shore of Lake Dunmore."
Rental availability: Check for on-site equipment rentals to avoid bringing everything. Branbury State Park offers "fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals," plus "a nature center with all kinds of information and activities."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Verify your RV size matches available spots. At Brookwood RV Resort, sites are "level, shaded" with "full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP)" but some note "gravel site" conditions.
Power requirements: Confirm electrical service compatibility before booking. A Sugar Ridge camper reported their "family staying next to us found their site had 50 amp service not the expected 30 amp and they needed to borrow an adapter cord."
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds require careful maneuvering. A reviewer noted: "Site map is oriented upside down and would be helpful if corrected and updated. Our site looked angled on map so thinking it would be easier to approach from a certain direction to back in, drove in as I needed but found site was perpendicular to road."
Road conditions: Access roads vary in quality throughout the region. At one campground a visitor mentioned "roadway a little rough but overall ok," while others noted the need for careful driving on mountain roads with steep grades.
