Cabin camping near Bolton, Vermont provides access to the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain basin, with most sites positioned between 400-1,200 feet elevation. State parks in the region typically operate from mid-May through mid-October, with nighttime temperatures that can drop below 50°F even in summer months. Winter cabin options are limited to a few year-round facilities.
What to do
Waterfront recreation: At Little River State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy water activities on the reservoir. "The reservoir is a fun place to explore via kayak and cannoe as well as by motorboat! We tend to hang at the site more than the beaches as the beaches are very small and full of children," notes Hannah H.
Historical exploration: Little River State Park features abandoned foundations accessible via hiking trails. "The hiking trails are really good--the actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," says Rita M., highlighting opportunities to explore Vermont's past while enjoying cabin stays.
Winter activities: For cold-weather enthusiasts, Smugglers Notch State Park Campground offers off-season cabin access. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March of 2019. Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve and make sure you park in the allotted area. Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed and the area is not plowed," explains Ed M.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Campers appreciate the privacy offered at certain cabin locations. "This campground is great. Nice and quiet. Campsites are well spaced. Some of the campsites on the outside ring you need to walk into (a very short distance), but it makes it feel very secluded and less like car camping," reports Jess O. about her stay at Smugglers Notch.
Lake views: Waterfront cabins at Grand Isle State Park Campground provide stunning lake vistas. "This was our second visit, but first time in one of their prime lean-tos. Unforgettable views, clean and spacious facility, minutes to Burlington, VT," notes Patricia E., highlighting the prime cabin locations along Lake Champlain.
Urban accessibility: Cabins near Burlington allow for both outdoor recreation and city exploration. "Right on the Burlington bike path and across the beach, there is plenty to do and easy access to town and other attractions. Other than the beach itself, this is not a resort campground but it is in an outdoor paradise with plenty to do in the area," says Michael G. about North Beach Campground.
What you should know
Lean-to structures: Many cabin options in this region are three-sided lean-tos rather than fully enclosed structures. "True to northeast tradition many of the camp sites are lean-to style," explains Harry H. about Smugglers Notch State Park's accommodations.
Coin-operated showers: Prepare quarters for shower facilities. "Pristine facilities, private camp sites and a beautiful area. Smuggler's Notch is close enough to Stowe to not be a hassle to drive to, but far enough away that it's quiet and remote. Excellent showers (coin operated) and bathroom facility," advises Ben C.
Seasonal variations: Some cabin sites are available year-round while others close in winter. At Shelburne Camping Area, Ryan D. notes: "Small camping areas but all you need for a quick place to camp if your passing through. Or just want a quick place to go camping," and Alyssa S. adds, "Love that it's open year round!"
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Family-friendly water options vary across parks. "We visited here with our 5 kiddos for 2 nights late July 2016. The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water," shares Rita M. about her Little River State Park experience.
Educational programming: Park rangers offer educational activities for children at certain locations. "The ranger programming was exceptional, as are the views and the nearby areas for hiking and backpacking," Harry H. mentions about Smugglers Notch State Park's offerings for younger visitors.
Playground access: Some cabin locations include play facilities. "What a lovely state park! We had a huge campsite that was comfortable for 3 tents and 6 adults. The restrooms/showers are vintage but clean and functional. It was a quiet, family friendly campground with a cute little beach and nature center with youth programs," writes Jessica G. about her stay at Grand Isle State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up limitations: RVers should note that many cabin-focused campgrounds have limited utility connections. "If you want to visit Stowe, VT, this is a great place to camp. It's also only an hour from Burlington, so this could be a good home base for visiting there. The sites are gravel and seem pretty level," advises Michelle C. about Mountain View Campground.
Site configurations: Some cabin and RV sites have unusual layouts. "One thing is that their hook ups are on the passenger side. You have to pull straight in with the truck and camper. This is because a lot of class A prefer this way, not sure," Ron H. explains about Apple Island Resort.
Terrain considerations: Several campgrounds feature sloped terrain. "Very nice campground, great location! The reservoir was beautiful. Took the kayak, only issue I had was getting to the lake. Most sites up on hill looking over lake, not easily assessable from camp site," Cindy L. reports from Little River State Park.
