Tent campsites near Burlington, Vermont range from primitive backcountry spots to accessible walk-in sites. Located between Lake Champlain at 95 feet elevation and the Green Mountains rising to over 4,000 feet, the region offers significant temperature variations even in summer months. Nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F even in July and August, requiring proper sleeping gear regardless of season.
What to do
Hiking to panoramic viewpoints: At Camel's Hump State Park, backpackers can camp at designated primitive sites about 1.5 miles into the trail. "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," notes Kate K. The campground has a 24/7 host and shared areas for eating and food storage due to bear concerns.
Fishing and boating: Valcour Island offers boat-access-only camping with excellent bass fishing. "Pick anchorage or sites early as it's always busy on weekends and first come first served (no reservations)," advises LauraandJosh W. The island has miles of hiking trails and primitive toilets, but requires bringing all supplies as no services exist on the island.
Winter camping: For cold-weather enthusiasts, some sites remain accessible year-round. Knight Island State Park Campground permits winter camping through the Vermont State Parks system. "There are some nice leantos on the east side of the island that give you access to the lake and some good fishing. Deer, turkey, fox and smaller animals can be seen throughout the island," reports M.A.D. P.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campers praise the seclusion at Underhill State Park Campground. Ali T. explains, "This is the best of car camping - you get the feel of really being out in the woods, with your car a short distance away. They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff." The park provides tent sites and lean-tos with pit toilets but no showers.
Car-free camping: The absence of vehicles enhances the experience at Burton Island State Park Campground. "There are no cars on the island. You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans," notes Tara S. The island has options for those without boats: "You can borrow a cart to bring your gear to your site, or you can pay one of the park rangers to haul it in one of their golf carts," she adds.
Easy summit access: Many campsites serve as ideal basecamps for mountain exploration. Bojangles R. says of Underhill State Park: "Spent a few nights here as a base camp while hiking some of the mountains in the area. Camp spots were far enough away from one another, trees helped with privacy, and the tent site had a great area to setup the tent." This park sits approximately 0.3 miles from the main trail to climb Mount Mansfield.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular tent campsites fill months in advance. Burton Island waterfront sites can book up 11 months ahead, though primitive sites remain available closer to dates. For Knight Island, advance planning is necessary as it's only accessible by private boat, though "there are a few unregulated boat taxis that will agree to take the boat-less out there," according to Ruby L.
Limited amenities: Many sites have minimal facilities. Indian Brook Reservoir offers walk-in tent platforms without most conveniences. "There is a shared privy among the sites. The Reservoir lends itself to peaceful boating, nature watching and great fishing," explains M.A.D. P.
Access challenges: Some of the most rewarding tent campsites require effort to reach. Indian Brook Reservoir has tent platforms accessible only by foot or boat. Erin B. advises, "It was a 15 minute hike to the site, so pack light. If you have a kayak, you can transport your stuff over. Site was gorgeous and private, right on the reservoir."
Tips for camping with families
Island camping options: Burton Island offers a family-friendly environment with structured activities. "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," shares Tara S. The island has a marina, bistro serving food, and equipment rentals.
Swimming locations: When camping with children, access to swimming areas becomes important. Doris B. recommends Burton Island: "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." For better swimming conditions, one camper suggests Charlotte town beach near Mount Philo ($10 for non-residents).
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many tent campsites near Burlington provide chances to observe animals. At Knight Island State Park Campground, winter camping permits allow access when wildlife is active. Summer visitors to Valcour Island should note that wildlife encounters require respect for their habitat and proper food storage.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent campsites near Burlington have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Mount Philo State Park Campground, Tara S. notes that "because the road is steep and winding, it's not suitable for RVs." The campground primarily accommodates tent campers with only 8 sites total.
Ferry transportation: RVers planning to visit island campgrounds need special considerations. Burton Island does have a ferry, but larger rigs won't fit. Michael L. shares, "After getting all of our stuff packed on the ferry and arriving on the island, we chose to have the campground deliver our stuff to our campsite for $10... it was well worth it."
Alternative parking: Some campgrounds offer separate parking areas for vehicles. At Underhill State Park, vehicles remain a short distance from campsites, with wheelbarrows provided to transport gear. This arrangement creates quieter camping conditions while still allowing for car camping convenience.
