Nestled in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, Westfield sits at an elevation of approximately 1,400 feet with cold winters and mild summers. The camping season typically runs May through October with many campgrounds closing during winter months due to heavy snowfall averaging 100+ inches annually. The area features diverse glamping accommodations set within working farms, lakefront properties, and forested state parks.
What to do
Biking and rail trails: Near Lake Carmi State Park Campground, connect to the extensive Missisquoi Rail Trail for cycling adventures. "Nearby is access to the Missisquoi Rail Trail," notes one visitor. Another camper shared their experience: "We came here in the fall with some friends. Dog friendly, cool trails to walk on. The sites were very private."
Winter camping: Smugglers Notch State Park Campground offers off-season camping opportunities. A visitor explained: "Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve and make sure you park in the allotted area. Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed and the area is not plowed. No facilities off season…Carry out all trash/waste."
Water activities: Enjoy boating on Lake Memphremagog at Prouty Beach Campground. "There is a very nice bike trail that runs through the campground, to the city of Newport on one side and to Canada on the other!" A visitor noted the beach conditions: "The park covers 35 acres with 75 campsites and many amenities that you would expect in a public park like tennis courts, playground, disc golf course, basketball court, shuffleboard, horseshoe pits, walking paths, and bike and boat rentals."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Little River State Park Campground offers waterfront camping with various access options. "There are many beautiful backcountry campsites right on the water only accessible via the water. Great local overnight spot with flat tenting, privies, and picnic tables." Another reviewer noted: "We visited here with our 5 kiddos for 2 nights late July 2016. The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water."
Seasonal perks: The Vermont glamping scene transforms with the seasons. "We came here in the fall with some friends. Dog friendly, cool trails to walk on. The sites were very private. Would love to come back! The sites and bathrooms were also VERY clean. Friendly staff!" shared a Lake Carmi visitor.
Urban proximity: Several glamping sites provide access to town amenities while maintaining rural character. A Kingdom Campground visitor noted: "Great for quite getaway, the newest sites are super spacious! We are here with 34' fifth wheel. No cable, and only PBS over the air...... Oh well, did I say this is great for a quite getaway!"
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Most glamping sites near Westfield have minimal cell coverage. At Kingdom Campground, a visitor shared: "We are here for their last weekend the campground is open. Foliage is just past peak, the staff is friendly, the store is pretty well stocked and everything is clean and tidy. Not too many people know about this place yet, partly due to a vague website."
Seasonal weather impacts: Vermont's weather affects campground conditions throughout the season. A Prouty Beach visitor warned: "Our electric was problematic. Granted it was hot while we were there (in the high 80's and low 90's) our electric pedestal showed readings between 110 and 115 volts which was constantly cutting off our air conditioners."
Reservation requirements: Most glamping options require advance booking, especially during peak foliage season. One Singing Wood Farm visitor advised: "If you want a place to nomadic camp that is near Stowe, but away from the hustle and bustle, then this place is for you. The landowner is very responsive and helpful with questions."
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Lakeside Camping offers family-friendly beach access. A regular visitor explained: "We have been coming here for the last 14 years together, and my husband since he was a baby. Lovely small quaint town and beautiful campground. The beach is the best! Not overcrowded. Great place to go kayaking, jump off the dock, or go search for the log!"
Outdoor recreation options: State parks provide affordable activities for children. A Little River State Park visitor noted: "The hiking trails are really good--the actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover."
Quiet time enforcement: Different campgrounds handle noise levels differently. At Prouty Beach, one camper observed: "All in all, people were nice but the lake location meant a LOT of additional noise from other users and there did not seem to be any reminders about quiet time. Don't come here if you're looking for solitude."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: RV sites vary significantly between campgrounds. At Kingdom Campground, visitors commented: "Very clean and quiet campground mostly set up for RVs. All RV sites have water, sewer, and electric. Tent sites have water and electric."
Leveling challenges: Terrain can make RV setup difficult at some locations. A Singing Wood Farm visitor advised: "The sites in the field are generally un-level, and we had to really work to level our trailer. While we were there, there were car campers, tent campers, and a class C rv, in addition to us in our travel trailer."
Power reliability: During peak summer heat, some campgrounds experience electrical issues. A Prouty Beach visitor warned: "During our stay, there was an ongoing summer camp for kids which was a little annoying. While the kids were not in the campground, we constantly heard them and they used all parts of the park."