Cabins near Bristol, Vermont offer rustic to modern accommodations within Vermont's Green Mountains region at elevations ranging from 400 to 800 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak cabin season. Most cabins have limited winter availability as state park facilities typically close after Columbus Day weekend.
What to do
Lakeside recreation: Button Bay State Park provides waterfront cabins with convenient access to Lake Champlain activities. "Wonderful state park, the waterfront sites are fantastic, they are wide so smaller units can be parked parallel to the lake. Bathrooms are clean, facilities are great. Easy access to the lake," notes a visitor to Button Bay State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Camel's Hump State Park offers primitive cabins along hiking routes with spectacular summit views. "This is a short and sweet hike to one of the higher points in Vermont. It is a beautiful scenic (somewhat strenuous) hike to the summit. The views are pretty epic though," shares one hiker at Camel's Hump State Park.
Water activities: Lake Dunmore provides multiple swimming areas near cabin accommodations. "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. There's a nature center with all kinds of information and activities," reports a camper at Branbury State Park.
What campers like
Proximity to towns: Cabins provide wilderness feel while maintaining access to nearby amenities. "We love North Beach! We stay every year for the Vermont City Marathon. It is a convenient bike ride down the bike path to the waterside park. Easy access to all of Burlington by bike," explains a visitor to North Beach Campground.
Seasonal variations: Fall cabin stays offer unique experiences with changing foliage. "Fall in New England can't be beat," notes a Branbury State Park visitor who stayed during autumn months.
Winter opportunities: Some cabins remain available for cold-weather adventures. "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," explains a winter visitor to Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
What you should know
Bathroom access: Most cabin sites have central bathroom facilities rather than private ones. "The bathhouse was clean. The ladies side had a fresh flower arrangement everyday," reports a camper at Shelburne Camping Area.
Bug preparation: Some cabin areas experience significant insect activity. "Beautiful campsite in Smugglers Notch State Park. Central to everything in Stowe and minutes away from the resort. Really nice campsite with great staff. The only complaint is mosquitos were rampant in standing water near our site. Bring bug spray," warns a visitor.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage at certain cabin locations. "Just make sure you put your food and trash away - there are black bears in the area!" advises a Branbury State Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Many cabin sites include dedicated play areas. "This is a good campground for families that are not too rowdy. There is a pool for swimming, paved roads are good for bikes & scooters, pavilion for activities, lake for swimming & fishing and hiking trails," explains a visitor to Button Bay State Park.
Educational options: Nature programs enhance cabin stays for kids. "There's a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits," notes a Branbury Park visitor.
Rock climbing: Some sites feature natural climbing opportunities for children. A visitor to Little River State Park shares, "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. The hiking trails are really good--actually pretty steep."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should carefully research cabin alternatives. "We didn't advance book, so we were in one of the last available spots. Site 2 is a flat, gravel back in, 30 amp, full hookup," explains an RV traveler at Shelburne Camping Area.
Road considerations: Some cabin access roads have specific challenges. "Some roads are unpaved, unmarked with directional signs, very narrow, and tough to navigate," notes a visitor to Rogers Rock Campground.
Off-season preparation: Winter cabin stays require additional planning. "Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed and the area is not plowed. No facilities off season...Carry out all trash/waste. Silent and starry nights, just make sure you have the gear/experience and a warm sleeping bag," advises a winter visitor to Smugglers Notch.