Smoke Rise Campground

- 2145 Grove St, Brandon, VT 05733

Introduction / Overview

For Vermonters and visitors who value a clean, secure, and conveniently located base for exploring the heart of the state, Smoke Rise Campground in Brandon, VT, offers a dedicated space for RV and tent camping. Located along U.S. Route 7, just a short drive from the charming town of Brandon, this privately owned campground provides essential amenities and a friendly environment for those looking to experience the Green Mountains and nearby lakes. The property is seasonal, typically operating from May 15th to October 15th, aligning perfectly with Vermont’s peak outdoor recreation season.

Guests often remark on the well-maintained nature of the grounds. One positive reviewer, representing a group of three rigs, specifically noted, "The grounds were neat and clean. Very well maintained," and highlighted the easy booking and check-in process. The owner’s personal introduction was also appreciated, contributing to the welcoming atmosphere. With a mix of sites, including many full hookup options, the campground is geared towards comfortable, extended stays, making it an excellent hub for exploring the Rutland and Addison county regions.

However, it is important for prospective guests to be aware of certain operational policies regarding shared facilities. Some guests have expressed strong dissatisfaction with a strict enforcement of guest hours and a fee-based system for the communal restrooms. The use of coin-operated facilities, including the hot showers, and a rigid application of visitor policies—including those concerning facility access after a certain hour—have been cited by some users as being inconvenient and excessively strict. While the management is clearly committed to maintaining a secure and orderly environment, guests should familiarize themselves with these policies upon booking to ensure their stay aligns with their expectations.

Location and Accessibility

Smoke Rise Campground is strategically situated at 2145 Grove St, Brandon, VT 05733, USA. This address places it directly on U.S. Route 7, which is a major north-south artery in Vermont, making it exceptionally easy for local residents to reach from various parts of the state. It is conveniently located only about two miles north of the town of Brandon and approximately ten miles south of Middlebury, providing quick access to local shops, restaurants, and cultural centers.

The campground's location in Rutland County is a key asset for outdoor enthusiasts. It is an ideal launching point for adventures in the surrounding area, including the vast Green Mountain National Forest. Key nearby recreational areas include Lake Dunmore (about six miles away), Branbury State Park, and the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area. This central location ensures that Vermont residents seeking hiking, biking, boating, or fishing are within a short drive of world-class natural attractions.

Services Offered

• Full Utility Hookups: The campground features numerous full hookup sites, offering 20-30-50 Amp electric service, water, and sewer connections, catering primarily to RVs and trailers.
• Diverse Site Types: Sites are available in pull-through and back-in configurations, many of which are graveled and include room for slide-outs. There are also designated tent sites available for reservation.
• Recreational Facilities: Guests can enjoy a clean swimming pool, a recreation room, a lighted pavilion with picnic tables perfect for group gatherings, a community fire-pit, and a playground.
• On-Site Amenities: Facilities include a bathhouse with coin-operated hot showers and restrooms, a coin-operated laundry room, and a propane filling station.
• Connectivity: Campground-wide WiFi is provided for guest use, a crucial service for modern travelers seeking to stay connected.
• Camp Supplies: Firewood and ice (blocks or cubes) are available for sale on the property for camper convenience.
• RV Service: The facility offers some RV-related services, including a self-service or staffed RV wash and secure RV storage options.

Features / Highlights

• Central Vermont Hub: Its location on Route 7 makes it one of the most accessible private campgrounds in the central Vermont area, positioned near major towns like Brandon and Middlebury.
• Access to Natural Assets: The campground provides a direct route to the spectacular Moosalamoo National Recreation Area, Lake Dunmore, and Branbury State Park, putting some of Vermont's best hiking, biking, and water recreation within minutes of your site.
• Comprehensive RV Support: Offering full hookups, multiple amperage options, a dump station, and RV wash/storage services, the campground is particularly well-equipped for RV and travel trailer owners.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: Consistently praised in reviews for being "neat and clean," the property’s commitment to maintenance ensures a visually appealing and comfortable setting for all visitors.
• Seasonal and Group Opportunities: The option to book the lighted pavilion and adjacent kitchen facility for special events, reunions, or club outings makes it a great choice for organized group camping among local residents.

Contact Information

Address: 2145 Grove St, Brandon, VT 05733, USA

Phone: (802) 247-6984

Mobile Phone: +1 802-247-6984

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Smoke Rise Campground is highly suitable for Vermont residents looking for a dedicated, amenity-rich campground that serves as an excellent home base for local exploration. For those who own RVs or trailers, the presence of numerous full hookup sites with 50 Amp service, along with laundry and propane services, makes it an exceptionally practical and comfortable choice for a long weekend or a seasonal stay without having to tow their rig far from home. Its convenient location on Route 7 allows for easy day trips to Middlebury, Rutland, and the scenic areas surrounding Lake Dunmore and the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area, keeping the travel time short and the adventure options plentiful.

While some guests have noted the strictness of certain guest policies, particularly concerning restroom access and visitor rules, the campground’s dedication to a clean and well-maintained environment is a consistent and appealing factor for those who prioritize a tidy and orderly stay. Vermonters seeking a reliable, friendly, and practical camping experience in the heart of the state’s natural beauty will find Smoke Rise Campground to be a functional and appealing option for their regional outdoor getaways. It’s a great way to explore the beauty of Brandon and the surrounding Green Mountains while enjoying the comforts of a full-service site.

Smoke Rise Campground

2145 Grove St, Brandon, VT 05733, USA