Tent camping near Cambridge, Vermont features a unique contrast between developed state parks and rustic, off-grid experiences within the Green Mountains. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 500-1,500 feet, with sites available from late May through mid-October depending on snow conditions. Seasonal temperature swings can be significant, with summer highs averaging 75°F and nighttime lows sometimes dropping to 45°F even in July.
What to do
Hiking direct from camp: At Underhill State Park Campground, trailheads connect directly to mountain paths. "About a .3 mile hike to the main trail to climb the mountain. The camp sites are nice but a little close together," explains Sam T. The park serves as a base camp for tackling Mount Mansfield's trails.
Paddling to remote sites: Access Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites for secluded camping via kayak or canoe. "Be sure to launch from cotton brook road if your site r11-27. We made the mistake of parking at little River rd the first time and the paddle to r14 from there was way too long," advises Julia S. Most sites require a 30-minute paddle from the Cotton Brook access point.
Island exploring: Woods Island State Park covers 125 acres with a 2-mile trail system connecting five remote campsites around the shoreline. "Woods Island provides a unique habitat for a rich variety of plant life, including many species that are rare or threatened in Vermont," notes one reviewer. Visitors must arrange their own boat transportation as there's no ferry service.
What campers like
Private island camping: Knight Island State Park Campground offers waterfront sites only accessible by boat. "Every remote campsite is waterside, with fabulous access to amazing swimming, gorgeous sunsets, and fantastic hikes across the island," shares Ruby L. Winter camping permits are also available through Vermont State Parks for off-season adventures.
Car-free environments: At Burton Island State Park Campground, the absence of vehicles creates a unique atmosphere. "It's like going to to a tropical island without leaving Vermont. There are no cars on the island. You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans," writes one camper. The island features a camp store, bistro, and kayak rentals.
Wildlife viewing: Green River Reservoir sites provide excellent nature observation opportunities. "Be sure to paddle out to the Beaver Meadow - we have seen moose there several times," advises a regular visitor. The 653-acre reservoir with 19 miles of shoreline requires paddling to reach all 27 primitive campsites, most within a mile of the boat launch.
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most remote sites have minimal amenities. "There is no potable water supply. Each campsite does have a fire ring and a nearby composting toilet," explains a reviewer about Woods Island. Bring all drinking water or filtration equipment.
Reservation requirements: Book early for popular sites. Burton Island waterfront locations fill 11 months ahead, especially for summer weekends. For Green River Reservoir, weekday bookings typically offer better availability than weekends.
Access logistics: Indian Brook Reservoir requires some planning. "It was a 15 minute hike to the site, so pack light. If you have a kayak, you can transport your stuff over," notes Erin B. Consider how you'll transport camping equipment before booking remote sites.
Tips for camping with families
Wheelbarrow access: Underhill State Park provides helpful transportation for gear. "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," shares Ali T. This makes the walk-in sites more manageable with children.
Kid-friendly islands: Burton Island has become known for its family atmosphere. "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," reports a camper. The absence of vehicles creates a safe environment for children to explore.
Off-leash areas: Sites with designated pet areas work well for family camping with dogs. Burton Island even features a dedicated off-leash dog beach, making it easier to accommodate the entire family.
Tips from RVers
Limited options: Traditional RV sites are scarce near Cambridge. Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape and Tent Haven offers some of the few RV-accessible sites in the immediate area, though hookups are not available. "We stayed in the group site because everything else was packed. They ask that you limit your driving on the path to the site," notes one camper about Underhill's limited RV access.
Consider cabins: When weather doesn't cooperate, some locations offer alternative accommodations. "Weather was not cooperative and my fiancé and I were able to rent one of the cabins for our second night," explains Evan M. at Black Creek Maple's. These options provide a backup plan when tent camping becomes challenging.
Generator restrictions: Most campgrounds near Cambridge restrict or prohibit generator use to preserve the natural quiet. Plan for boondocking with alternative power sources if bringing an RV.
