Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Burlington, VT

North Beach Campground sits along Lake Champlain at an elevation of 190 feet, providing access to both waterfront activities and the 10-mile Burlington bike path. Temperatures around Burlington typically range from 60-82°F during peak camping season from June through August. Camping in this region offers proximity to Vermont's largest city while maintaining connections to lakeside recreation options.

What to do

Paddling on Lake Champlain: Access the water directly at North Beach Campground, where campers can launch kayaks and paddleboards. "Take your kayaks paddle boards or whatever you have and enjoy the lake! A gorgeous bike trail also runs right through the campground," reports Brittany R.

Golfing near camp: The 9-hole par-3 golf course at Apple Island Resort provides on-site recreation without traveling far. According to Nancy W., "There is a 9-hole par-3 golf course with putting green," making it convenient for campers looking for quick activities.

Scenic mountain hiking: The trails at Mount Mansfield are accessible from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground. "You are minutes from some amazing hiking, which is great when you don't feel like driving long distances after a day hike," notes Ben C., highlighting the convenience for hikers.

What campers like

Biking infrastructure: The extensive Burlington bike path connects several campgrounds and provides safe routes for cycling. "Bring your bikes! You're tucked away in the woods on gorgeous lake champlain and can bike into burlington for meals and city street strolls," recommends Mackenzie B.

Waterfront access: Grand Isle State Park Campground offers lakeside camping options with water activities. Sarah C. shares, "You can bike directly from here all the way to Burlington, without ever getting back in your car! Take the bike ferry across a small section of Lake Champlain and keep on riding."

Winter camping options: Off-season camping is available for experienced winter campers. Ed M. explains, "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."

What you should know

Site selection strategy: At Ausable Point Campground, campers should prioritize riverside or beach sites. Sheri S. advises, "Campground has some great sites (river sites best for paddling), beach sites (some have a very high cement wall with a drop off to the beach- not recommended for families with dogs or small children)."

Bathroom facilities vary: Showers at most campgrounds require quarters. "Showers are coin-operated, but $0.50 will get you 5 minutes of hot water!" notes Tucker B. about Grand Isle State Park. Some campgrounds have individual shower rooms rather than communal facilities.

Seasonal crowds: Most Burlington-area campgrounds fill completely during summer weekends and holidays. "Since this campground is within Burlington city limits it is a bit cramped and can get crowded. However it's location makes it convenient too," explains John L. about North Beach Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Lone Pine Campsites offers family-friendly amenities including playgrounds and recreational facilities. Erin S. shares, "We had one right next to the playground so our daughter could walk straight to it without having to cross a road. And speaking of playground, it was large and very nice."

Beach safety considerations: Not all waterfront sites are suitable for children. Melissa L. cautions about Grand Isle, "Very rocky beach with little to no sand to play in," which might disappoint families expecting sandy swimming areas.

Youth programming: Several campgrounds offer organized activities for children. Jessica G. mentions that Grand Isle has "a cute little beach and nature center with youth programs," providing structured activities during your stay.

Tips from RVers

Hookup configurations: RV sites at many Burlington campgrounds have unusual hookup placements. At Apple Island Resort, Nancy W. notes, "The hook-ups at our site were well-placed but the sewer pipe was high off the ground which did not let it drain even with a 'slinky.'"

Size restrictions: Smaller campgrounds like Mount Philo have limitations for larger rigs. "The road is steep and winding, it's not suitable for RVs," advises Tara S., making this location better for tent camping or small trailers.

Seasonal RV options: For longer stays, consider seasonal options at several pet-friendly campgrounds. David A. rates Apple Island Resort highly: "We travel coast to coast with 3 kids and 2 huge dogs in a SuperC. Apple Island is now in our top 5 of even our luxury list of resorts."