Pet friendly camping near Westfield, Vermont ranges from full-service campgrounds to primitive sites. The Northeast Kingdom region sits at elevations between 1,000 and 3,000 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures that average 75-80°F during peak camping season. Several campgrounds in this area offer electrical hookups, with amperage typically ranging from 30 to 50 amps depending on the facility.
What to do
Mountain hiking trails: At Smugglers Notch State Park Campground, trails lead directly to Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak. "You are minutes from some amazing hiking, which is great when you don't feel like driving long distances after a day hike," notes Ben C. Winter camping options also exist: "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."
Lake activities: Lake Carmi offers water-based recreation despite some seasonal challenges. "It was very clean and pleasant. Water was great in the early summer when we went, loved it for kayaking," says Brian J. Some visitors note water quality varies: "The lake had green algae and we spotted several dead fish floating. It made me nervous about the water."
Biking opportunities: The region features multiple rail trails and bike paths. 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!" Another visitor adds, "You can ride your bike to Canada or into town and see the small town community. Wonderful place to ride bikes and watch the sunset."
What campers like
Private campsites: Elmore State Park Campground offers secluded options among its 45 sites. "The campground was nearly empty during our stay so it felt extremely private. No hookups are available but there is a dump station and a bathroom facility with paid showers." For those seeking wooded sites, "Some of the wooded tent sites are quite private, but most are not."
Boat-in camping: For true seclusion, Green River Reservoir State Park Campground provides remote camping experiences. "I love this location because you have to paddle out to a site for camping. It's private, quiet, and really gives you that 'forest bathing' escape." The reservoir features "27 campsites and two group campsites. Most sites are within a mile of the boat launch, a few require closer to a 2-mile paddle."
Stargazing opportunities: The Northeast Kingdom's minimal light pollution creates exceptional night viewing. "Because our lean-to was in a meadow with no tree coverage, we were treated to the most awesome night sky we've ever seen at a Vermont state park. It was mesmerizing!" For tent campers at Will-O-Wood, "There was so little light pollution that we woke up during the night thinking that someone was shining a light outside, but realized that it was just the moonlight."
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Lake Carmi State Park Campground, location significantly impacts experience. "We have camped is several different sites - most recently, #12. This was definitely not our favorite. It was difficult to find a flat tent spot, and the site seemed very overused. Our favorite spots are # 13, 24, and 30, and the earlier in the year you reserve, the more choices you will have."
Bathroom facilities vary: Most campgrounds offer basic facilities with some limitations. "The restroom in the campground loop we were in was very clean but outdated. The sinks are cold water only, which I normally wouldn't mind, but the temps dropped into the 20s during our trip, which made washing up a little bit painful." Some campgrounds have unusual features: "The stalls in the bathroom are uncomfortably short so when you stand up your head is poking out over the door."
Seasonal considerations: Spring and fall camping offers more solitude. "Early and late seasons are quiet. It's quite busy during the summer months as the lake is great for families and swimming." For Green River Reservoir, one camper notes: "Despite the fact that Green River Reservoir is only open to paddlers for primitive camping and limited day-use activities, it can still get pretty busy on the weekends. Definitely recommend trying to reserve for a weekday, or in the off season."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Mountain View Campground offers multiple swimming options. "There are 2 pools (one for adults only) and a hot tub. There is mini golf, a playground, corn hole, and tube rentals for the river behind the campground." Another visitor notes it's "beautifully maintained" with "a small putt-putt course, a corn hole set and a short hiking trail."
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Several campgrounds specifically cater to families with children. "All about the family, from the owners to the guests family friendly first," notes one visitor about Tree Corners Family Campground. At Mountain View, expect "plenty of amenities that the kids will love. Well stocked camp store and two pools."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can experience nature up-close. "Be sure to paddle out to the Beaver Meadow - we have seen moose there several times." Lake areas provide wildlife viewing: "There is a lot of beautiful wildlife, and they do an amazing job at preserving the sites."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Will-O-Wood Campground accommodates smaller rigs comfortably. "The sites vary like all RV parks but there were options for seclusion. We were in site 95 and even though it was next to the rest room it was quiet and clean with woods in the back." Most Vermont state parks have size restrictions: "Some of the wooded tent sites are quite private, but most are not."
Electrical concerns: Power capacity varies between campgrounds and can be problematic during hot weather. "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."
Level sites: Mountain View Campground offers relatively flat spots. "The sites are gravel and seem pretty level." Another RVer notes: "Our site (#103) was long enough to fit our rig but we had to squeeze the car in front. The site was level and all the hookups were well-placed and worked fine."
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