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Jacqueline S.
Traveler
TravelerFox Lair Campsites
We had a great time and there’s a few campsites to choose from.. if you don’t pay attention you could completely miss them
Dog-Friendly Camping near Benson, VT
5 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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Half Moon Pond State Park Campground accommodates pets throughout its wooded sites and lakefront camping areas with clean, well-maintained facilities. The park offers tent sites, RV spots, lean-tos, and cabins where dogs can accompany campers. Lake Bomoseen KOA also welcomes pets with designated pet-friendly accommodations including tent sites, RV sites with hookups, and cabin options. Both campgrounds maintain pet waste stations and require dogs to be leashed at all times. Bomoseen State Park provides waterfront lean-tos where campers can keep dogs with them while enjoying lake access. The bathrooms at these campgrounds remain exceptionally clean despite the presence of pets, with Half Moon Pond's facilities noted as some of the cleanest of any Vermont state park.
Several hiking trails accessible from these dog-friendly campgrounds near Benson accommodate pets, including paths around Half Moon Pond and the Slate History Trail at Lake Bomoseen. The Bomoseen Loop Trail and connecting paths to Glen Lake provide excellent opportunities for dog walking and swimming away from crowded beach areas. Dogs are not permitted at the main swimming beaches at either Lake Bomoseen or Half Moon Pond, but can access water at designated areas along the shoreline. Sites on the right side of Half Moon Pond offer more wooded privacy for campers with pets that might bark at passersby. The pond itself is shallow and weedy in parts but provides calm paddling opportunities where dogs can swim alongside kayaks and canoes launched directly from waterfront sites.
Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Benson (155)
1. Rogers Rock Campground
"The sites used to be further apart with more privacy and woods surrounding each site, but they had to change so more people could enjoy the park."
"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."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $22 - $172 / night
2. Lake Bomoseen KOA
"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."
3. Half Moon Pond State Park Campground
"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)."
4. Bomoseen State Park Campground
"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."
5. Brookwood RV Resort
"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."
Check Availabilityfrom $39 - $49 / night
6. Putnam Pond Campground
"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."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $18 / night
7. Moosalamoo Campground
"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."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $15 / night
8. Moose Hillock Camping Resorts
"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."
9. Lake George Escape Campground
"Campground is pet friendly and have a small dog park. Pool was looking a bit outdated when we were last there but totally functional. We’d go back in a second."
"Campground is placed 10 minutes from the bottom of Lake George with great hiking trails in the surrounding area. The campground it’s self it’s very clean in every aspect."
10. Gifford Woods State Park Campground
"Decent bathroom situation--I've seen better and I've seen worse in Vermont."
"The park is amazingly clean, well run, located just of RT 4 and very near to Killington, Vermont. It has multiple lean-to sites which are in wooded areas."
Drive Time
- 49 min from Glens Falls, NY
- 1 hr 10 min from Burlington, VT
- 1 hr 33 min from Albany, NY
- 2 hrs 2 min from Pittsfield, MA
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Benson, VT
81 Photos of 155 Benson Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Half Moon Pond State Park Campground
Bomoseen State Park CampgroundJ
Rogers Rock Campground
Brookwood RV Resort
Putnam Pond CampgroundT
Davey Falls ADK
The Home Depot — RutlandM
Crane Pond Dispersed Site
Moosalamoo Campground
Granite Hill Lodge and Campground
Paradox Lake Campground
Lake Hadlock Inn, Beach and CampgroundC
Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Benson, VT
811 Reviews of 155 Benson Campgrounds
Matt T.
GuideBingo
Epic dispersed camp sites
There was a few sites 5-6 we didn’t get to the eastern loop. But the sites we saw were very secluded. All had fire pits ours had a picnic table. And was right next to the creek. Would highly recommend if you want to get away from city lights. All sites are not maintained. We had a small off road camper it was easy In and out some sites could be hard with larger pull behinds. Some sites might need 4wd to get in and out we had lots of mud after a lot of rain.
- ttim O.Guide
Gifford Woods State Park Campground
Gifford woods campground
Nice campground near Killington, VT. Water and dump station. Not for big rigs we have a 21 ft TT. Things were tight but doable. One of the few Vermont state campgrounds that is still open. Most close from second Monday in October until Memorial Day.
Tara S.
LegendCoolidge State Park Campground Vermont
Very private with gorgeous views
This is a quiet campground in a quiet part of the state. The terrain is mountainous, and all of the sites are private. There are two loops, one for tents/RVs and one for lean-tos. We stayed in the Willow lean-to, and while our site didn't have a view, it was one of the most private sites we've stayed in and just a short walk to the bathhouse.
The campground was created by the CCC in the 1930s, and from what I've heard, it hasn't changed much since that time. While we were here, we visited the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site (very cool), Long Trail Brewing, and the town of Woodstock. Great trip!
- PPeter L.Traveler
Vanderwacker Mountain Wild Forest
Quiet fire rings with outhouse
Multiple small fire ring, camping spots with an outhouse down a trail by site 3.
- SSTEVEN J.Guide
Lake Champagne Resort Vermont, Inc.
A Gem in Vermont
Simply said, if you like a well maintained place with a swim beach, floating dock, grass galore, space to stretch out, and more, this is the place. It’s beautiful. As a bonus, it’s cost effective over other RV parks. If you want free, nope. If you want wild open spaces, nope. You a great lush big clean park that feels like your Owen estate, then come check this place out. We will be back.
Jessica M.GuideKelley Stand Rd - NF Dispersed Camping
Interesting, decent site
Free dispersed camping site in the Green Mountain National Forest, off a dirt road. The site curves around past the driveway so you can tuck up into the trees to be more private. The upper part there has a circular open area, surrounded by thin trees. There’s a fire ring set up midway on the site. It felt more isolated than other sites I’ve stayed at and there were quite a few animal sounds in the woods, including large animal bones left past the treeline. They seem to be left behind from people (based off of how the bones were cut). Dispersed camping so don’t expect facilities of any sort. Decent site and pretty large compared to some of the other spots. Heard Barred Owls in the distance which was awesome. Uploaded a video of the site at night and pics of the area on a map that my friend was able to pull up.
- Jessica M.Guide
Dispersed site along Forest RD 71
Cute dispersed spot
Went with a friend on an impromptu last minute camping trip up in the NF and hoped we could find a spot on a Friday night. Quite a few spots were taken but there were still some free ones. We stayed at one near the creek just over a little bridge. Cute little site, nice fire pit, clean, perfect rock to put a big water jug on. The sound of running water was soothing. In the morning, adorable little red squirrels with big personalities made themselves known and there were wildflowers blooming all over with hummingbirds going about their business. This is dispersed camping so there’s no rest rooms, running water, etc. The particular site we stayed at did have another site on the other side of the creek and we could hear the family during the day and see them as they walked past, so it wasn’t as isolated as some of the other sites. It was a cute spot and I’ll def be back.
- KKaSondra S.
ScoutCrown Point Camping Area
Disappointed
Very Disappointed With the Changes
Crown Point Campground used to be a wonderful place to camp. Unfortunately, since Happy Grounds purchased the campground, we have seen a significant decline in the overall experience.
I do want to make one thing very clear: the woman managing the campground is absolutely wonderful. She genuinely cares about the campers, is kind, helpful, and does her best to make people feel welcome. Our frustrations are not directed toward her. She deserves recognition for the effort she puts in, especially given the circumstances.
Unfortunately, there are serious concerns with the direction the campground has taken. There is no reliable Wi-Fi or cell service, which is especially concerning because there is no dependable way to call out in the event of an emergency. We have also seen a significant change in the atmosphere and clientele. Drugs have been found on the premises, including needles, which is extremely concerning for the safety of campers, especially families with children.
The campground has also become increasingly overcrowded. Tent sites have had upwards of 10 people on a single site, creating a very different camping experience from what many long-time campers originally signed up for.
Seasonal campers were told that there would be a gradual increase over two years to bring rates up to the new “going rate.” However, when the new contracts came out for next year, the price had increased by approximately $900. That is a substantial increase for a campground that, in our opinion, has continued to decline rather than improve.
What was perhaps most disappointing was how campers' concerns were handled. When people questioned the increase and expressed their frustrations, the response from the corporation was, and I quote:
“Get out and leave. I’ve heard enough complaints. Just leave if you don’t like it.”
That is an incredibly disappointing way to speak to people who have supported this campground for years.
It is heartbreaking to see what Crown Point Campground has become. There are good people here, and the campground itself has so much potential. Most importantly, the manager genuinely cares about the campers, and she deserves credit for that.
Our hope is that Happy Grounds will listen to the people who have invested years of their time and money here, address the safety and overcrowding concerns, and bring back the sense of community that once made Crown Point such a wonderful place to camp.
Guide to Benson
Camping near Benson, Vermont spans a transitional zone between the Taconic Mountains and Lake Champlain lowlands at elevations averaging 400-600 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below zero, while summer months offer mild days with temperatures typically ranging 70-85°F. The region's mixed northern hardwood forests create distinct camping environments between lakeside and higher elevation sites.
What to do
Explore Slate History Trail: This trail at Bomoseen State Park Campground provides educational hiking with historical context. "There's a nice trail to walk that follows along the shoreline. Each site has a fireplace and table," notes Lauren S. about nearby water trails.
Paddle multiple connected waterways: From Half Moon Pond, kayakers can access multiple connecting bodies of water. A camper at Rogers Rock Campground explains, "Located at the northern end of Lake George and about 7 miles south of Ticonderoga, Rogers Rock is a boater's paradise."
Visit nearby historic sites: Fort Ticonderoga is just a short drive from several campgrounds. "Ft. Ticonderoga isn't far away, either," mentions Jean C., noting that the fort "is a few miles to the north where you can explore history with re-enactors."
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer direct water access from campsites. At Half Moon Pond State Park Campground, "Sites are a good size and we were able to snag a water front site which was really beautiful. There are also lean-to sites and some cabins. We fished and kayaked right from our site," describes Rebecca D.
Clean facilities: The campgrounds maintain high standards for bathhouses. "Bath houses were very clean and updated. Not many rv, mostly tents and pop ups," reports Michele S. about Half Moon Pond State Park, while another camper notes, "Restrooms are modern and clean. Everyone seems to adhere to quiet hours so it was easy to get a good night's sleep."
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer a peaceful experience. At Moosalamoo Campground, "The campsites are well spaced and staggered for maximum privacy. Hosts are pleasant and very helpful," according to Nancy M.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from Memorial Day through early October. "Oddly, our fire pit faced the neighboring site rather than the pond," notes a camper at Half Moon Pond, highlighting that site orientations may not be ideal.
Water conditions vary: Some lakes and ponds have vegetation issues. "The pond is very weedy, so fishing was not so great, but the hiking trails around the park were fun," mentions Cynthia K. At Lake Bomoseen KOA, a visitor noted, "Access to far end of Lake Bomoseen with boat rental and dock space but area pretty overgrown with lake weeds."
Connectivity limitations: Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region. "There is NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect. The lake is swampy at this end so not much to look at," explains Dave S. about Lake Bomoseen KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Seek out parks with dedicated swim areas: Some campgrounds have designated beach areas for families. "The swimming beach is small but perfect, and there are even cabins for rent on the other side of the pond," notes Tara S.
Look for quieter weekday reservations: Weekends can get crowded during peak summer. "We stayed here for two nights for a mid-week getaway. The park is small, quiet and very well cared for," reports Cynthia K.
Reserve well in advance for waterfront sites: The most desirable spots book quickly. At Narrow Island Group, "Book 9 months in advance & good luck. Last minute cancellations are a common occurance though," advises Rebecca E.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "Sites aren't particularly level or large. Cell phone coverage is spotty, I was getting 1-2 bars with Verizon," explains Jean C. about Rogers Rock Campground.
Consider seasonal site options: Many RVers choose longer-term arrangements. "The campground is a little tight for our 36ft 5th wheel but managable. The sites are a good size and relatively level," notes Dave S. who stayed at Lake Bomoseen KOA.
Be prepared for limited hookups: Full hookups aren't available at all campgrounds. "No hookups but the bathrooms are clean and the showers ($) are hot," mentions Susan E. about pet friendly camping options at Half Moon Pond State Park.
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According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Benson, VT is Rogers Rock Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 30 reviews.
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