Glamping options close to Burlington, Vermont typically offer year-round availability depending on the property, with Mount Philo State Park open from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. The Lake Champlain region sits at approximately 100 feet above sea level, while surrounding mountains reach up to 4,395 feet, creating diverse camping environments within a 35-mile radius. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer days typically range from 65-85°F with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Paddling on Lake Champlain: Bring or rent kayaks at Burton Island State Park where you can access waterfront sites with stunning morning views. "The south tip of the island gets more wind, and therefore waves, which my children greatly enjoyed for swimming. The northern part has shale beaches, and a few areas of mucky/pebbly beaches," notes Rita M., who appreciates the variety of shorelines at Burton Island State Park Campground.
Mountain hiking trails: Access Mount Mansfield's trail system directly from your campsite at Smugglers Notch State Park. "You are minutes from some amazing hiking, which is great when you don't feel like driving long distances after a day hike," shares Ben C. about Smugglers Notch State Park Campground. Winter visitors can find off-season camping opportunities as well.
Sunrise views: Walk the short trail to the summit at Mount Philo for spectacular morning vistas. "My favorite part about camping here is getting up early and hiking the short trail to the top for a spectacular sunrise," writes Tara S. The elevation provides panoramic views across Lake Champlain toward the Adirondacks.
Disc golf and mountain biking: AuSable Chasm Campground offers more than just gorge views with on-site recreation options. "Large and nice-looking playground, pool, volleyball net, disc golf and mountain biking/hiking trails. It also looked like there were cross country ski trails," reports Lee D.
What campers like
Private, well-spaced sites: Mount Philo offers secluded camping with only 10 total sites (7 tent sites and 3 lean-tos). "Sites 1, 6 and 8 and the best if you're only camping with those at your site as they're the most secluded and private," advises Drew Q. about Mount Philo State Park Campground.
Car-free glamping experience: Burton Island creates a unique atmosphere by requiring boat or ferry access. "There are no cars on the island. You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans," explains Tara S. The ferry costs $8 per person with no extra charge for gear.
Winter accessibility: Little River State Park allows off-season access for winter sports enthusiasts. "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 Ed M. about Little River State Park Campground. The lean-tos provide shelter during colder months.
Lakeside glamping amenities: Camp Skyland offers waterfront sites with conveniences not found at more rustic locations. "My family of 4 tent camped at Camp Skyland in June '24 on a waterfront spot showcasing gorgeous Lake Champlain with a mountain backdrop. They had outdoor sink for washing dishes, too," shares Whitney W.
What you should know
Shower costs and facilities: Most state parks charge for showers - 50 cents typically buys 5 minutes of hot water. "Showers were quarter operated, 50 cents for 5 minutes. Firewood sold on site," reports Beau B. about Mount Philo.
Limited site availability: Smaller parks like Mount Philo have very few sites (only 10 total), requiring advance booking. "Campsites at Burton Island book far in advance. When we booked our Labor Day weekend tent site back in March, there were only 2 leantos (out of 26) left and a handful of tent sites," warns Rita M.
Ferry transportation: For Burton Island glamping experiences, most visitors use the Island Runner Ferry. "The ferry is $8 per person, with no extra charge for gear. They do charge $2 for bikes. If you want to use the ferry, but still want a kayak or canoe at the island, you have to paddle it across separately," explains Rita M.
Electrical challenges: Some campgrounds have limited or problematic hookups. At Shelburne Camping Area, one reviewer experienced issues: "Electricity would not work. We got an error on our control panel that said stop! Power source is not correct!" reports Snooz H. about Shelburne Camping Area.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly island environment: Burton Island creates natural boundaries for families with younger children. "It's super family friendly - maybe it's because there aren't cars all over the place, but the island is full of free range kids, and they're having a blast," notes Tara S.
Swimming locations: Many sites offer multiple swimming options ranging from developed beaches to natural swimming holes. "There is a day area with a beach as well as many places around the island to swim. Just wear water shoes since it is mainly a rocky coast," advises Doris B. about Burton Island State Park.
Playground access: North Beach Campground provides play areas alongside beach access. "The camp ground can be crowded but it is right near Church street, and the beach is very well maintained, there are life guards on duty at the beach and a playground and grills (claim them early if you want them)," suggests Meag F. about North Beach Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger-led programming suitable for children. "The ranger programming was exceptional, as are the views and the nearby areas for hiking and backpacking," writes Harry H. about Smugglers Notch State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for significant leveling efforts at certain campgrounds. At AuSable Chasm, one reviewer noted: "RV site 8 is so out of level that we couldn't get our Airstream level unless we put 10" of blocking under both axles," warns Brian P. about AuSable Chasm Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads at some campgrounds may present challenges for larger rigs. "The 'road' into the campground is more like a goat trail, with numerous washouts and uneven rocks and dirt," reports Brian P. about AuSable Chasm.
Electricity options: Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday offers a range of electrical hookups. "We stayed in a full hook-up site that was plenty long enough for our 45' RV and tow car. The water spigot at our site broke when I was hooking up the water which was then gushing everywhere. Staff were really prompt at coming out and shutting off the water and getting it fixed," shares Nancy W.
Separate camping sections: Some properties offer distinct camping areas for different preferences. Lake Placid/Whiteface KOA has "the 'Resort' section and the '100-Acre Woods' section. We stayed in site #73 of the 100-Acre section and would highly recommend staying in this area as opposed to the other. This section has tall shad trees and much more space between sites than the resort area," advises Nancy W.
