The West Pawlet area spans the Vermont-New York border in the slate valley region, offering camping spots between 400-1000 feet elevation with mild summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-78°F. The camping season runs longer at lower elevations compared to northern Vermont, with some private campgrounds operating into November depending on weather conditions. Cell service tends to be stronger at New York locations while Vermont sites offer more varied terrain.
What to do
Hiking options: Several campgrounds provide trail access for day hiking. At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, campers can explore multiple trail options. "We especially loved the trail around the lake - quiet with good swimming all around. The vista trail has an awesome view of the lake from across the road, and the meadow trail leads to an old cemetery, which is kind of fun to explore," notes one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: The Battenkill River offers trout fishing within 15 minutes of West Pawlet. Camping On The Battenkill provides direct river access. A reviewer mentions it offers "world-class trout fishing. It features wooded, sunny and on the river sites," making it convenient for anglers.
Water activities: Beyond swimming, many lakes offer rentals for water exploration. One visitor at Emerald Lake noted, "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."
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Campers consistently praise the roominess at certain campgrounds. At Moose Hillock Camping Resorts, "The sites at this park are huge. You could have parked three RVs in our site. Added bonus is that there is nice separation between sites with trees and shrubs that block out your neighbors and provide lots of privacy."
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower cleanliness varies significantly between locations. Lake George RV Park receives high marks for maintenance. "Beautiful campsites. Very Clean," states one reviewer, while another notes, "Living 10 minutes away, we were looking for an affordable vacation and we found it!"
River camping: Sites adjacent to flowing water are among the most requested. At Camping On The Battenkill, one camper shared, "I stayed right on the river in site 14 with a small popup. The river is beautiful and the site was huge. We did some fishing and swimming."
What you should know
Shower facilities: Most state parks require quarters for showers. At Emerald Lake, one visitor advised, "Don't forget to bring quarters for the shower," while another mentioned, "Pay showers so save your quarters. Nice lake for canoeing with trails from the camping area."
Site selection matters: Not all sites are created equal, even within the same campground. One visitor to Hearthstone Point Campground recommended, "The bottom part of the campground is gorgeous...the beach area is beautiful. But keep in mind not all sites are created equal though so def scout around for next stay and make note of your favorite sites."
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially lakefront options. A reviewer at Emerald Lake warned, "This is a popular camp ground so reserve as early as 11 months before arrival."
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. At Hearthstone Point, a camper noted, "Campsite was a bit noisy due to location close to major road," while another mentioned, "One downside is that our camp site was close to the road so we did hear cars driving by at night, so I would advise to get a spot away from the road."
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly areas: Some campgrounds offer sites specifically designed for multiple families. Moreau Lake State Park Campground provides pavilions for larger gatherings. "There are two pavilions you can rent which are nice if big groups want to gather," noted a visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report owl sightings and small mammals at dusk. At Emerald Lake, one camper reported, "A lot of owls at night!!!!!!!!!" making nighttime an opportunity for wildlife education.
Organized activities: Some private campgrounds offer scheduled events. Moose Hillock features "planned activities each day like limbo, scavenger hunts, movie night at the pool (in summer months) and a great pool to swim in with two water slides."
Playground options: Quality and maintenance of play areas varies widely. One camper at Camping On The Battenkill wrote, "My family and I have been camping here for 40 years. 4 of my 5 children learned to ride their bikes on the circle that surrounds the playground."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require leveling blocks. At Moose Hillock, "Sites are huge. Plenty of room for our RV, and small tent. Private." But another visitor to a different campground warned, "Sites are level but some definitely were not."
Electric hookup locations: Power post placement varies by site. At Dorset RV Park, a visitor noted, "My parents paid for 50 amp electric and the site next to them was using it instead of the 30amp they were meant to have."
Tree clearance: Older campgrounds may have tight turns with low branches. One RVer mentioned, "Our campsite was spacious but required some maneuvering to avoid scraping trees with our RV," highlighting the need to scout potential sites before committing.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds have dump stations, but not all sites have sewer hookups. Campers appreciate when this basic amenity is convenient: "The hookups were all well-placed and we didn't have any issues with the electric."
