The western Vermont landscape surrounding Benson features diverse camping options within a short drive, particularly along the shores of Lake Bomoseen and Half Moon Pond. State parks dominate the camping scene, with Bomoseen State Park and Half Moon Pond State Park offering well-maintained facilities approximately 10 miles from Benson. Lake Bomoseen KOA provides a private alternative with full hookups and amenities for those seeking a more developed camping experience. Across the New York border, approximately 25 miles west, Rogers Rock Campground and Putnam Pond Campground offer additional options for campers willing to venture slightly farther. The region supports various accommodation types including tent sites, RV sites with hookups, rustic cabins, and Vermont's distinctive lean-to shelters.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from Memorial Day through mid-October, with state parks typically closing after Columbus Day weekend. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for waterfront sites which fill quickly during summer months. As one camper noted, "Of all the Vermont State Parks we've camped at, Half Moon Pond is high at the top of the list for its privacy, quiet paddling, and proximity to other cool attractions." Spring visits may encounter muddy conditions on unpaved access roads, while fall brings spectacular foliage viewing opportunities. Cell service varies considerably throughout the region, with better coverage near larger towns. Weather patterns can change rapidly, particularly in early spring and late fall when overnight temperatures may drop significantly.
Vermont's state parks receive consistently high ratings for cleanliness and site privacy. Waterfront sites at Half Moon Pond and Lake Bomoseen are particularly sought after, allowing campers to "go straight from the tent to kayak," according to one reviewer. The campgrounds near Benson typically feature clean bathhouses with coin-operated showers (50 cents for 5 minutes is standard). Many sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and access to firewood for purchase. Visitors frequently mention the tranquility of the area's camping options, with one camper describing their experience as "quiet and relaxing with plenty of space." Lean-to shelters, a distinctive feature of Vermont camping, provide protection from the elements and are available at several nearby state parks, though they tend to book quickly due to their popularity.
$22 - $172 / night
"For the last three years, we have traveled with dozens of friends and families to Rogers Rock Campground, which is tucked into the north end of the gorgeous 32 mile-long oasis that is Lake George."
"Ive been coming to this spot nearly every year since I was a little girl."
"Bomoseen State Park is right down the road, but I recommend staying at Half Moon and taking advantage of the large swimming area at Bomoseen, as well as all the cool ponds, lakes, and hiking trails nearby"
"The pond is clean and swim-able and great for kayaks/canoes (near Glen Lake and Lake Bomoseen for boating and more kayaking/canoeing)."
"No ATM on site to get cash… The sites are spacious enough, but are very close to each other. Zero buffer between neighboring sites means encroaching slide outs."
"family camping Kabins, rv, and tent sites, arcade, store, ice cream, and Lake Bomoseen. Easy to get to, close to Castleton, Rutland, and Hubbarton Battlefield. Great spot for a family get-a-way."
"It was during the COVID-19 pandemic, and we are happy to report that everyone wore masks in public spaces (restrooms), and that there was plenty of room for social distancing. "
"We had a nice private site, close to amenities and the lake, the beach area was nice, kind of rocky, but had sand for the beach. The play area has a nice set up, overall a nice camping area."
$39 - $49 / night
"This RV park on the outskirts of Ticonderoga offers full hookups and can also accommodate tents. Seasonal sites are largely separate from short-term campers and they are clean and well-kept."
"And easy access to Fort Ticonderoga, restaurants in town and Lake George area."
$18 / night
"Running through the campground are several hiking trails and they are worth it. Heart pond and Bear pond were nice, but unspectacular. Rock pond on the other hand was great."
"However it is a gateway to Pharaoh Lake Wilderness. Lots of hiking trails to many ponds and one lake most of which have lean tos and other sites which are free."
$15 / night
"there are no amenities other than cascading waterfalls, mountain views, incredible swimming hole, a nearby lake, a picnic table and a fire ring. the easiest access to sites one and two is the Silver Lake"
"Access to campground is on a gravel road but my van did okay. It is small and primitive and there is a camp host who is very nice."
"The site was so scenic with a little waterfall and stream nearby. The camp staff was so nice. They kept the the bathrooms and areas so clean."
"Love to lake access, secluded camping, the hiking and remote area. Planning on revisiting next summer, even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time."
$28 / night
"I have stayed on Nobles Island & Floating Battery Island in the Narrows of Lake George. You must have a power boat ride out there or be up for a long paddle."
"Golf cart rentals (4 and 6 person) were expensive so we just walked the park multiple days. Each site is gigantic and well thought out and can easily say there is not a bad site in the place."
"The park is very large so if you want to be near the pool/entertainment area or nearby bathrooms, pick your site accordingly."
GuideWe loved camping at Crane Pond. It was a little over 3 miles to hike into the waterfront sites. There is an outhouse nearby, several campsites, fire pits, and we went for a swim in the pond. Overall great experience!
TravelerFree dispersed camping right off of the road. Includes picnic tables and a fire ring. It is located in the mountains of Vermont and right next to a beautiful river. The only con was the highway noise since it's pretty close to the road. But, it's free, and in the beautiful mountains of vermont so cant really complain.
ScoutEasy to find, quiet & scenic with the river
ScoutWhen camping in VT it is usually our goal to hike, rest, cook, and relax at camp. We live in a busy/loud city so we really love a rural spot where we can just unplug and enjoy nature. Gifford Woods has great access to the AT and the Long Trail, nice bathrooms, and kind staff... but campers beware- it is wedged between two major highways. Initially we pulled up to the site "Poplar" after driving 4+ hours and I could have cried, this site faces a large DOT/Parks Dept. parking lot with a huge building and trucks everywhere. Luckily the (very sweet) staff said they understood that this was an issue and that they do get lots of complaints about that site. They moved us to T02 which was dramatically better. Unfortunately, you can still hear trucks/car honking/ambulances from that site and I assume all other sites. I understand now that people camp here just for AT access, but I would probably not go back due to the sheer volume of the neighboring highways and quieter camping options nearby.
GuideThis is a beautiful state park at the base of Mt ascutney. The campground is lovely. Forest Ed and beautiful fall colors in October. Good facilities. Friendly staff. Some noise from the interstate but not terrible. There is a 3.7 mile road that is extremely steep but paved, and goes to the summit of the mountain. Less than 1 mile hike from there to the observation tower. Great views. Lots of hiking trail trails.
TravelerClean, good facilities. Price has gone up to $38 a night. Got there close to the time the rangers left for the night, Nick was really kind to make sure I got situated before he left. Walking distance from the antique mall which is a stop everyone should make as well as good food and pizza right nearby. Great spot to stop at on any trip
GuideThis is a nice little private campground in Shelburne, just outside of Burlington. Close to Lake Champlain. Good place to spend the night and good access to activities. Sides are somewhat small close together. Bathrooms spotlessly clean. Older couple is the staff, very friendly and unhelpful.
GuidePretty nice campground all things considered, bathrooms are definitely rustic but kept clean. Some of the campsites are very close together, and others have a decent amount of space between them, not necessarily a lot of trees in between campsites for privacy. Beautiful views of the water, and surrounding mountains. Staff was extremely friendly!
ScoutThis was our second stay at this Vermont State Park. It was a great three days. The park rangers were tremendous in ensuring we had a delightful visit. They worked with us to get the right site. The bathroom facilities, while rustic, were clean. There is a plethora of things to do in the park itself and in the local community. Nonetheless, it starts and ends with the management of the campground. Lauren, the campground manager, and her team of professionals, do a great job. We will definitely return.
Camping near Benson, Vermont offers sites within the Taconic Mountains region, where elevations range from 500-1,000 feet creating variable temperatures even in summer months. Benson campers can access both Vermont state parks and New York facilities within a 30-mile radius, with most campgrounds positioned along bodies of water that provide natural cooling during hot summer days.
Paddling at Half Moon Pond: Launch directly from waterfront sites at Half Moon Pond State Park Campground. "We were able to snag a water front site which was really beautiful. We fished and kayaked right from our site," notes Rebecca D. The pond offers calm waters ideal for beginners.
Hiking forest trails: Access multiple trails directly from Moosalamoo Campground, located in Green Mountain National Forest. "There are many things to do and see in the area. No cell coverage and poor wi-fi if that is important," explains Rick G. The campground connects to numerous hiking paths of varying difficulty.
Historical exploration: Visit Fort Ticonderoga just 7 miles south of Brookwood RV Resort. "Ticonderoga offers some history and is worth a half-day visit. Lake Champlain isn't far away, either," recommends Jean C. The fort provides educational programs throughout summer months.
Private, well-spaced sites: Campers consistently note the spaciousness at Putnam Pond Campground. "The campground is small, quiet and very well cared for. Restrooms are modern and clean. Everyone seems to adhere to quiet hours so it was easy to get a good night's sleep," reports Cynthia K. Sites average 30-50 feet apart.
Clean facilities: State parks maintain high cleanliness standards. "The bathrooms were always clean, the showers were always clean and the campground as a whole was ALWAYS CLEAN," notes Michael G. about Putnam Pond. Most campgrounds feature coin-operated showers typically costing 50 cents for 5 minutes.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds cater to families with various amenities. "The bathhouse was very clean, the swimming beach is small but perfect, and there are even cabins for rent on the other side of the pond," mentions Tara S. about Half Moon Pond State Park.
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds operate from late May through early October. "Spring visits may encounter muddy conditions on unpaved access roads, while fall brings spectacular foliage viewing opportunities," mentions the existing description. Many facilities close after Columbus Day weekend.
Cell coverage issues: Limited connectivity affects most campgrounds in the region. "There is NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect," warns Dave S. about Lake Bomoseen KOA. Better service typically available near larger towns.
Wildlife awareness: Bears exist throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. "There are bears in the area, so be aware and store all food properly," advises Lisa S. about Branbury State Park. Most sites provide proper storage containers or guidance.
Water-based activities: Lakefront campgrounds offer swimming and boating options. "The beach is small, but it is never busy. No hookups but the bathrooms are clean and the showers ($) are hot," says Susan E. about Half Moon Pond, where canoe and kayak rentals are available for approximately $10-15 per day.
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "The park has a nice camp store with everything from t-shirts to RV supplies to food," notes Nancy W. about Moose Hillock Camping Resorts, which also features "a nice playground" according to Julie E.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate learning into camping trips. "Nearby is good hiking in Adirondack Park where trails range from easy to difficult and have some great views of the lake and surrounding area," suggests Nancy W. Many parks offer ranger-led programs during peak season.
Site selection: Choose carefully based on your RV needs. "The campground is ok. It was a little tight for our 36ft 5th wheel but manageable. The sites are a good size and relatively level," shares Dave S. about Lake Bomoseen KOA. Most sites require advance reservations during summer months.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the region. "There are a lot of good things and some bad things that could be corrected... The site was much smaller than expected," notes Kim T. about Rogers Rock Campground, which offers electric, water, and sewer hookups at select sites.
Seasonal considerations: Plan ahead for varying weather conditions. "We visited mid-week so it was quiet, but there are a lot of seasonal rigs there so weekends could be busy," observes Dave S. Most campgrounds have strict quiet hours beginning at 10 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Benson, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, Benson, VT offers a wide range of camping options, with 218 campgrounds and RV parks near Benson, VT and 29 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Benson, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Benson, VT is Rogers Rock Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 31 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Benson, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 free dispersed camping spots near Benson, VT.
What parks are near Benson, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Benson, VT that allow camping, notably Green Mountain & Finger Lakes National Forests and Green Mountain National Forest.
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