Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, where West Burke is located, sits at elevations ranging from 700 to over 3,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations throughout camping seasons. The terrain in this region features rolling hills that can challenge larger motorhomes on narrow access roads to rv parks near West Burke, Vermont. The region typically receives significant rainfall in spring and fall, with summer nighttime temperatures often dropping into the 40s even during July.
What to do
Mountain biking at Kingdom Trails: Located minutes from several RV parks in West Burke, Vermont, these trails attract cycling enthusiasts year-round. "Great for ski bums. Access to xcs, downhill, and snow machine trails," notes Corrie G. about Cannon Mountain RV Park.
Paddle sports on Lake Willoughby: The lake offers crystal-clear waters accessible from multiple campgrounds. "Take a paddle out there, they have rentals very reasonably priced! Enjoy your stay!!" recommends Courtney H. about White Caps Campground. Kayak rentals typically cost $25-35 for half-day use.
Hiking at Brighton State Park: The park features several well-marked trails for all ability levels. "Near by are all sorts of awesome hiking trails. Boreal forest. THE best. We saw [a moose], crossing the road right by [the Moose Observation Platform]," reports Tina D. after staying at the park.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "Very clean and quiet campground mostly set up for RVs. All RV sites have water, sewer, and electric. Tent sites have water and electric. Toilets and showers were very clean," notes Nick about Kingdom Campground.
Spacious sites at newer campgrounds: Newer parks offer more room between campsites. "The site we stayed at has a few trees around it & a beautiful view in the back. Has a heated, salt water pool! I definitely plan on coming back next year!" shares Heather O. about Kingdom Campground.
Lean-to shelters for weather protection: Several state parks offer these structures. "We stayed here in late August. The weather was beautiful and our campsite had an incredible view of the lake. My only fault to the campground is the showers have a coin system in place to use them," reports David S. about White Caps Campground.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "Entire location on rolling hills gives the feeling of a small campground but it is fairly large. Lots of seasonal campers. Decent cell phone signal (Verizon)," reports Russ V. about Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground.
Site size constraints: Some campgrounds have very compact sites. "Sites are narrow, a little bigger than a parking space, especially because of the trees in between the sites. We stayed at site four. Site seven looks to be the best because no trees on one side let's you have some room," advises Cathy G. about Cannon Mountain RV Park.
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate only during warmer months. "Clean spacious beautiful views right from campsites... Not too many people know about this place yet, partly due to a vague website. The newest sites are super spacious! No cable, and only PBS over the air," explains Keith L. about Kingdom Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with planned activities: Some sites organize regular events for children. "Kids were happy with the heated pool, horse rides, and other activities," reports Russ V. about Sugar Ridge RV Village. Their activities typically run daily during July-August.
Find parks with dedicated play areas: Multiple recreation options keep children entertained. "Dog friendly, mini golf, heated pool, two playgrounds, and crafts and fun things for the kids! We truly enjoyed this park," shares India H. about Smugglers Notch RV Village.
Consider proximity to swimming areas: Water access provides natural entertainment. "Just down the road is a nice day use area with a beach, changing rooms and restrooms. If you arrive early, it is a nice place to spend a little time while you wait for 2:00 p.m. to come around," suggests Sarah C. about Brighton State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Verify hookup specifications before arrival: Electrical service varies across campgrounds. "Site map is oriented upside down and would be helpful if corrected and updated... 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," warns Russ V. about Sugar Ridge RV Village.
Check site dimensions and terrain: Some sites have challenges for larger rigs. "This is a new campground opened this past season. This is our 3rd visit and it gets better each time. They offer a variety of different sites to fit each campers needs, a beautiful well kept bath house and a small but well stocked store," notes Alan B. about Smugglers Notch RV Village.
Consider water and dump station availability: Not all parks offer full hookups. "This hilltop RV park is still in its infancy, but offers pull through sites, seasonal sites with sewer. Water is available from a tank; you'll need to provide your own power, whether solar or generator," explains Jean C. about Sunshine Valley RV Park.