Pleasant Valley Campground

- 421 Ticklenaked Pond Rd, Ryegate, VT 05042

Introduction / Overview

Pleasant Valley Campground, as its name beautifully suggests, is a wonderfully peaceful and quiet retreat nestled in the heart of Vermont's natural landscape. Located on 70 wooded acres in Ryegate, this family-owned and operated campground offers a serene escape for families, children, and pets, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Ticklenaked Pond. It is a place where genuine hospitality and a strong sense of community blend seamlessly with the beauty of the outdoors.

The campground is highly regarded by its patrons for its clean facilities and the welcoming nature of the owners, who are known for being kind, accommodating, and willing to go the extra mile—such as personally delivering firewood to new arrivals. This personal touch is a hallmark of the Pleasant Valley experience. While a significant portion of the campground is dedicated to seasonal campers, who create a friendly and established community, the owners reserve a selection of beautiful wooded sites for transient travelers and groups. Whether you are looking for a secluded spot for a short-term stay or seeking a seasonal base to enjoy the entire summer, this campground provides a comfortable, clean, and highly enjoyable environment.

The unique advantage of Pleasant Valley Campground is its prime location on the 'backside' of Ticklenaked Pond. This gives guests private access to the water, allowing for swimming, fishing, and boating on a clear, no-wake pond where loons and other wildlife are often sighted. For locals, it offers an escape that is both profoundly relaxing and rich in natural recreational opportunities, truly living up to the 'pleasant' experience promised by its name. The campground’s commitment to providing spacious sites, including fields for larger groups, ensures that every guest can find the perfect setting for their Vermont getaway.

Location and Accessibility

Pleasant Valley Campground is located at 421 Ticklenaked Pond Rd in Ryegate, VT 05042, USA. Ryegate is situated in the state's Northeast Kingdom/Central Vermont area, providing a convenient base for exploring a wide variety of natural attractions. Its location on Ticklenaked Pond is a key feature, offering direct and easy water access for campers.

The surrounding area provides ample opportunity for classic Vermont outdoor adventure. The campground is within reasonable driving distance of several popular state parks, including Ricker Pond State Park, Big Deer State Park, and the extensive Groton State Forest network. This means transient visitors and seasonal residents alike have access to miles of hiking trails and multiple fishing and swimming spots beyond the campground itself.

Accessibility for vehicles is generally good, with sites able to accommodate various sizes of RVs and campers. However, travelers should note the intentional quiet and unplugged atmosphere; like many authentic Vermont retreats, the location is known for having poor or no cell service, which is a major draw for those seeking to truly disconnect. While the camp store offers some essentials, the nearest significant towns for full grocery and service runs would require a short drive, making the campground feel secluded but not isolated. The tiered hillside layout of the sites means many benefit from a view of the beautiful pond, adding to the scenic accessibility of the location.

Services Offered

• Various Campsites: Offers tent sites, wooded sites, waterfront sites, and fields for large group camping.
• RV Sites: Provides water/electric sites, as well as full hook-up sites for RVs and trailers.
• Rental Units: A cabin rental is available on the water, and a camper rental is available on a campsite.
• Clean Restrooms: Facilities include well-maintained restrooms with sinks and flush toilets.
• Coin-Operated Showers: Hot showers are available on-site for a small fee.
• Coin-Operated Laundry: A washer and dryer are provided for camper use.
• Camp Store: Sells essentials like snacks, camp supplies, firewood, and ice, as well as fishing and hunting licenses and bait (note: store hours may be variable, so calling ahead for supplies is advisable).
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RV and trailer use.
• Essentials Delivery: Owners are known to deliver firewood and ice to sites upon request.
• Family and Pet Friendly: The campground welcomes families, children, and pets (leash required).

Features / Highlights

• Private Pond Access: Direct, private access to the backside of Ticklenaked Pond, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
• Beautiful Beach Area: Features a designated beach area for enjoying the clear water of the pond.
• No-Wake Water Activities: The pond is ideal for quiet boating, including kayaks, row boats, and paddle boats, with rentals available on-site.
• Loons and Wildlife: A nesting pair of loons and other wildlife are frequently observed on the pond, enhancing the natural experience.
• Seasonal Community: A strong, friendly seasonal camper base creates a welcoming and familiar atmosphere for all visitors.
• Group Camping Options: Provides entire fields that can be reserved, ideal for large groups or multiple families wishing to camp together with privacy.
• Owner Hospitality: Consistently praised for the owners’ welcoming, kind, and accommodating nature, ensuring a high quality of customer service.
• Outdoor Recreation: On-site opportunities for fishing, hiking, outdoor games, volleyball, and horseshoes.

Contact Information

Address: 421 Ticklenaked Pond Rd, Ryegate, VT 05042, USA

Phone: (802) 584-3884 (Also available: (802) 522-9283, often used for winter inquiries)

Mobile Phone: +1 802-584-3884

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Vermonters, Pleasant Valley Campground offers an authentic and accessible slice of the state’s beloved outdoor lifestyle. It provides a unique opportunity to embrace the 'unplugged' nature experience, free from the constant distractions of cell service, making it a true escape without requiring an hours-long drive. The option for seasonal camping is particularly appealing to local families who want a dedicated summer sanctuary, providing a sense of community and stability for annual retreats.

The clear, no-wake Ticklenaked Pond, with its private beach access, is an invaluable local resource for safe family swimming and peaceful paddling, setting it apart from busy public access areas. Furthermore, the campground's proximity to major state forests and parks makes it an excellent home base for exploring the region’s best hiking and fishing spots. By supporting this family-owned operation, locals ensure they are contributing to a business that prioritizes genuine hospitality, clean facilities, and a quiet atmosphere—all the hallmarks of a truly pleasant, local Vermont camping tradition.

Pleasant Valley Campground

421 Ticklenaked Pond Rd, Ryegate, VT 05042, USA