Best Camping in Vermont

Vermont is not only one of the best places to live and work in the U.S.; it’s also a hugely popular vacation destination. All seasons have their own charm in this freethinking New England state, from the long, snowy winters to gloriously sunny summers and, of course, the breathtaking fall foliage. It comes as no surprise that Vermont is popular among campers. Along with hiking, skiing and fishing, camping in Vermont is among the greatest things to do in this gorgeous state.

Vermont is one of the least populated American states, home to vast forests, accessible mountains, and picturesque villages. Whether you come for fishing or hiking, kayaking or skiing, Vermont has it all in world-class quality. Fishing on Lake Champlain can be done all year long – ice fishing in winter through boat trips in summer – while kayaks and canoes are welcome on most rivers and lakes. Hiking, however, is arguably the most practiced outdoor pursuit in the Green Mountain State. Trails crisscross across the land, running along the beautiful Lake Champlain shoreline and up to the highest Green Mountain peaks, such as Camels Hump and Mount Mansfield. Vermont is also home to the oldest long-distance trail in the United States, the Long Trail. This path runs from the Massachusetts border all the way north to Canada, following the crest of the Green Mountains. A section of the beloved Appalachian Trail cuts through the state’s southern part as well. Rest assured that you’ll find plenty of camping in Vermont on the way, along the trails, on riverbanks and lakeshores. Are you a winter camper, too? We sure hope so! Vermont happens to be one of North America’s best destinations for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. With renowned resorts such as Killington, Sugarbush and Stowe, it’s a winter sports enthusiast’s paradise.

No matter what adventures you’re after, Vermont has you covered. And at The Dyrt, we’re always ready to help you find the best camping in Vermont.

Best Camping Sites in Vermont (217)

    Camper-submitted photo from Grand Isle State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Grand Isle State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Grand Isle State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Grand Isle State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Grand Isle State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Grand Isle State Park Campground

    1.

    Grand Isle State Park Campground

    27 Reviews
    67 Photos
    259 Saves
    Grand Isle, Vermont

    Welcome to Grand Isle State Park, located on South Hero Island in Lake Champlain. The Island, also known as Grand Isle, is 14 miles long and over 3 miles wide, making it the largest in Lake Champlain. It contains the towns of Grand Isle (on the northern half) and South Hero (on the southern half). The North and South Hero Islands are named in honor of early pioneering Vermonters who served in the American Revolution.

    Grand Isle State Park is the most-visited campground in the state park system. With 4,150 feet of Lake Champlain shoreline, Grand Isle is popular with many destination campers who spend their entire vacation here. At the same time, the park location on US Route 2 attracts a high number of one-night campers, while proximity to population centers in Burlington, Vermont and Montreal, Quebec make it an easy destination for the weekend or spur-of-the-moment camper. Park property extends all the way west to Route 2, where part of the land is being kept open by agricultural lease, and some of what was pasture thirty years ago has reverted to woodland.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $6 - $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach Campground

    2.

    North Beach Campground

    26 Reviews
    46 Photos
    179 Saves
    Burlington, Vermont

    North Beach Campground, nestled near Burlington, VT, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors with some modern conveniences. This place is a gem if you want to be close to Lake Champlain and all the activities it offers. The campground runs from May 1 to October 15, giving you a good chunk of the year to plan your visit.

    One of the standout features here is the proximity to the Burlington bike path, which is perfect for a scenic ride or walk along the lakefront. The beach is just a short stroll away, offering beautiful views of the Adirondacks across the water. If you're into biking, there's even a bike ferry that lets you continue your ride across the lake.

    The campground itself has a mix of tent and RV sites, with some spots offering electric and water hookups. Sites 90 to 108 are particularly nice, spaced out under the trees, while sites 113 to 119 are a bit more cramped. If you're bringing a big rig, no worries—this place is big-rig friendly.

    Amenities include showers, toilets, and a sanitary dump, making it a comfortable stay. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. There's also a market on-site for any last-minute supplies you might need.

    Some visitors have mentioned that the campground can get lively, so if you're looking for a quiet, secluded spot, this might not be it. But if you want to be close to Burlington and enjoy easy access to the lake and bike paths, North Beach Campground is a fantastic choice.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $37 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Little River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little River State Park Campground

    3.

    Little River State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    75 Photos
    291 Saves
    Waterbury Center, Vermont

    Little River State Park, which is part of Mt. Mansfield State Forest, is home to central Vermont's largest and most popular campground. The campground has 81 tent/RV sites, 20 lean-tos, and five cabins. Restrooms have flush toilets and hot and cold running water, and three of the four restrooms have coin-operated hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available, but there are no hookups. Within the campground, there are swimming beaches, play areas, a boat launch, ball fields, and boat rentals for campers (for day use boat rentals and swimming, see Waterbury Center, State Park). Adjacent to the park are miles of hiking trails for campers and day use visitors that take in the rich cultural and natural history of the area.

    Remote camping: The remote campsites can be reserved online or through the Reservation Call Center at 1-888-409-7579 starting May 19. Those not reserved are first come/first served. Information about open campsites may be found at each access area. Simply find a vacant designated campsite, pitch in and the park ranger will come by to get you registered. Campsites may be used by any single party for up to 7 days with no fees. Every remote campsite has a maximum occupancy of 6 people, unless otherwise posted. There are privies at these sites, but there is no potable water. View remote camping page here.

    Today, Little River State Park is one of the most popular parks in central Vermont. Waterbury Reservoir is particularly favored for boating with a portion of the reservoir devoted to quieter uses. Angling for bass and trout is as popular here as water-skiing.>

    Enjoy swimming beaches, play areas, boat rentals and a launch, and miles of hiking and mountain bike trails in the adjacent Mt. Mansfield State Forest. Self-guided history and nature trails are located close to the camping area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $19 - $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground

    4.

    Smugglers Notch State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    65 Photos
    244 Saves
    Stowe, Vermont

    This popular state park, located in Vermont, is a narrow passage that leads through the Green Mountains. In 2003, the park was relocated to allow room for expansions, including an updated campground and sites featuring alternative energy. Despite this, great care was taken to relocate and restore the original structures that were built there by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The site originally housed the many young men looking for work during the Depression era, so it was important for their work to be preserved as much as possible.

    Visitors report satisfaction with the new renovations, as the new campground has sites that allow for much more room than before, and ample thought was given to the facilities operating on alternative energy. Campers can now enjoy hot showers, firewood and ice for sale, as well as a new location that provides easy access to Bingham Falls.

    Before planning a stay at the park, travelers should be aware that most sites in the park are first come first serve, and not easily accessible by vehicle. Because of the limited space and narrow geography, there are only a small number of sites that can accommodate a trailer or RV. Animal lovers are welcome to bring their furry pals for a visit to the park as well.

    Day use of the park consists of a variety of recreation and fun. There's a wetlands boardwalk near what's called the Barnes Camp Visitor Center. Bouldering and cave exploring commonly take place here as well, and when the weather allows it, some try their hand at ice climbing. Day use of the park comes with an entrance fee of $4 for adults, $2 for kids 12 and younger, and children ages 0-3 enter the park free of charge.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Quechee State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Quechee State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Quechee State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Quechee State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Quechee State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Quechee State Park Campground

    5.

    Quechee State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    161 Photos
    121 Saves
    Quechee, Vermont

    Welcome to Quechee State Park Campground, nestled near Hartford, VT. This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors with some solid amenities. The campground operates from May 19 to October 16, giving you a good chunk of the year to plan your visit.

    One of the standout features here is the cleanliness. Visitors consistently rave about the immaculate bathrooms and coin-operated showers. You get five minutes of hot water for just 50 cents, which is a steal. Firewood and ice are available for purchase, so you won't have to venture far for the essentials.

    The campsites themselves are spacious and well-maintained, accommodating everything from tents to big rigs. If you're into hiking, there's a trail right by site 37 that leads you down to the stunning Quechee Gorge and the visitor center. It's a bit steep, but totally worth the effort.

    For those who prefer a bit more comfort, the campground offers lean-tos and even some cabins. The lean-tos are a great option if you're worried about rain or just want a bit more structure. And speaking of rain, one camper mentioned that even a downpour couldn't dampen their spirits here.

    The location is also a big plus. You're just a short drive from Woodstock and Killington Resort, where you can enjoy activities like mountain biking and zip-lining. If you're hungry, the snack bar on-site comes highly recommended, and there are plenty of dining options in nearby White River Junction.

    Overall, Quechee State Park Campground offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, convenience, and comfort. Whether you're here for a weekend or a week, you're bound to have a memorable stay.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Jamaica State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jamaica State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jamaica State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jamaica State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jamaica State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jamaica State Park Campground

    6.

    Jamaica State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    64 Photos
    152 Saves
    Jamaica, Vermont

    Welcome to Jamaica State Park Campground, nestled near the charming town of Jamaica, VT. This place is a gem for anyone looking to escape into nature while still enjoying some creature comforts. The campground is open from May 12 to Columbus Day weekend, making it a perfect spot for spring, summer, and fall adventures.

    The campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, along with 18 lean-tos, some of which are right on the West River. These lean-tos are highly sought after, so snagging one is a real treat. The sites are well-maintained and spacious, giving you plenty of room to spread out and relax.

    One of the standout features here is the access to the West River. You can cool off with a swim at Salmon Hole or explore the river's edge. The park also boasts some fantastic hiking and biking trails. The Overlook Trail offers a 2.5-mile loop with stunning ridge views, while the trail to Hamilton Falls is a must-see, especially if you love waterfalls. If you're up for a bit of a trek, biking partway and then hiking to the falls is a great option.

    For families, there's a playground and a small park area for kids to enjoy. Pets are welcome too, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just remember, there's no cell service in the park, but you can find Wi-Fi hotspots in the nearby village of Jamaica.

    Visitors have praised the friendly and accommodating staff, clean facilities, and the overall peaceful vibe of the campground. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Jamaica State Park Campground offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty and convenient amenities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
  1. 7.

    Camping On The Battenkill

    19 Reviews
    46 Photos
    354 Saves
    Arlington, Vermont

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    Camping On The Battenkill is a quiet nature orientated campground on 35acres of land that offers large spacious private sites in 30 Acres of forest, 2 rivers and a large open field area for group bookings. The beauty of The Battenkill and Roaring Branch rivers can be experienced throughout the varied terrain of the campground. We have RV Sites and Raw Camping sites that are situated on the Battenkill River the other sites are located in the forest or open field. Life does not get better than this! A natural swimming hole with a sandy beach lies in the midst of the campground with all campers having access to it for long cool summer’s day experiences. Campers also enjoy tubing and canoeing on the river as well as basking in the sun, or taking their pets for long cool walks through the forest. The Battenkill is noted as an exceptional trout stream for fishing and we even offer guided fishing tours right from the campground. On rainy days campers can enjoy the games room or take a covered bridge tour nearby the campground. We offer a mobile honey wagon service for campers who require longer stays. The campground is well known for creating memories and experiences that last a lifetime so book your stay now and start making memories. 

    Nearby Attractions: Lake Shaftsbury State Park, Battenkill River, Mount Equinox, Covered Bridges, Lye Brook Wilderness, Merck Forest, Lincoln House, Robert Frost Stone House Museum, Norman Rockwell Art Museum and Sugar Shack, Christmas Day Shop, Shaftsbury Alpaca Farm, Manchester VT for world class shopping, and many other local attractions. 

    Nearby Cities/Town: Arlington, Shaftsbury, Bennington, Manchester.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $45 - $57 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Woodford State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodford State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodford State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodford State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodford State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodford State Park Campground

    8.

    Woodford State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    58 Photos
    328 Saves
    Bennington, Vermont

    Welcome to Woodford State Park Campground, nestled in the scenic town of Woodford, VT. This campground is a fantastic spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors from Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend. With a solid 4.5-star rating, it's clear that campers love it here.

    One of the standout features of this campground is its beautiful and clean bathrooms and showers. Visitors have raved about how well-maintained these facilities are, with individual shower rooms that lock and include benches, hooks, and shelves for your convenience. Just remember, the showers now require tokens instead of quarters, so grab those at the campground office.

    Speaking of the office, they sell firewood for $6 a bundle and even offer free kindling from leftover cuttings. You can also pick up ice and some fun merchandise while you're there.

    The campground offers a variety of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, glamping options, and yurts. Some sites, like site 64, are particularly private and surrounded by trees, giving you that secluded feel while still being conveniently close to amenities like water spigots and bathrooms.

    For those who love water activities, the nearby reservoir is a highlight. It's perfect for kayaking, fishing, or just enjoying a peaceful paddle. There are also plenty of picnic tables and grills around the lake, making it a great spot for a day out.

    If hiking is more your speed, you'll find trails close by, including a nice 30-45 minute trail around the reservoir that's easy to navigate. Plus, the campground's proximity to the city of Bennington means you can easily pop into town if you need anything.

    Overall, Woodford State Park Campground offers a great mix of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer stay, you're bound to have a memorable time.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Lake State Park Campground

    9.

    Emerald Lake State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    51 Photos
    136 Saves
    Danby, Vermont

    Welcome to Emerald Lake State Park Campground, nestled near Dorset, Vermont. This place is a gem for anyone looking to escape into nature while still having some comforts. The campground is open from Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend, making it a perfect summer and early fall destination.

    The campground offers a mix of tent, RV, and glamping accommodations, so there's something for everyone. One of the standout features here is the beautiful Emerald Lake itself. The lake is clear, warm, and perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. There's even a nice beach area where you can relax and soak up the sun.

    Visitors often rave about the spacious and private campsites. Many sites are large and wooded, providing a good amount of privacy and a serene atmosphere. The facilities are well-maintained, with clean bathrooms and hot showers, although you might need some quarters for the showers. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.

    For families, the campground is a hit. There's a concession stand, picnic areas, and even a playground to keep the kids entertained. If you're up for a bit of exploring, Manchester is just a short drive away. It's a charming town with great restaurants and shops. Some campers have recommended checking out Lyle Brook Falls for a beautiful hike and Honeypie in Jamaica for some fantastic burgers and shakes.

    Whether you're here for the fishing, the hiking, or just to unwind by the lake, Emerald Lake State Park Campground has got you covered. Enjoy your stay and make the most of this beautiful spot!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Woods State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Woods State Park Campground

    10.

    Gifford Woods State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    65 Photos
    193 Saves
    Killington, Vermont

    Gifford Woods State Park Campground, nestled near Killington, VT, is a gem for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. Open from May 19 to October 16, this spot offers a variety of accommodations including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options.

    One of the standout features here is the abundance of hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail that runs right through the park. If you're into hiking, you'll find no shortage of trails to explore. The park is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

    Visitors have praised the campground for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities. The bathrooms and showers are frequently cleaned, and there's a sanitary dump station available. If you need to stay connected, the cell service is pretty solid, which is a nice bonus for those who might need to work while camping.

    For those who enjoy a good campfire, firewood is available for purchase, and fires are allowed. The sites are generally spacious and offer a decent amount of privacy, though some are closer together than others. If you're looking for a bit more seclusion, try to snag a spot in the upper loop.

    Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the peaceful pond across the street, perfect for a quiet day of casting lines. And if you're into mountain biking, Killington Bike Park is just a few minutes away.

    Overall, Gifford Woods State Park Campground is a fantastic spot for a getaway, whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax in a beautiful setting.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
Showing results 1-10 of 217 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping in Vermont

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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available in Vermont?

According to TheDyrt.com, Vermont offers a wide range of camping options, with 217 campgrounds and RV parks in Vermont and 30 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground in Vermont?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Vermont is Grand Isle State Park Campground with a 5-star rating from 27 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Vermont?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 free dispersed camping spots in Vermont.

What are the best parks in Vermont?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks in Vermont that allow camping, notably Green Mountain National Forest and Townshend Lake.