Rustic camping near Derby Line, Vermont centers primarily on water-accessible sites along the Connecticut River. The region sits at the northeastern border of Vermont where summer temperatures average 75-80°F during peak camping season from June through September. River currents in this area can be strong following rain events, requiring paddlers to carefully time their trips and secure boats properly when accessing campsites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Maine Railroad Trestle, the rocky beach area provides an excellent fishing spot. According to Sarah C., "It's also a nice spot to fish from," making it convenient to catch dinner without leaving your campsite.
Explore adjacent fields: Beyond the immediate campsite areas, agricultural landscapes offer exploration opportunities. Be prepared for pest protection as "the ticks in the field are insane! They weren't bad in the campsite but in the grass, they were epic," notes a camper about Maine Railroad Trestle.
Sports and recreation: The Moscow Recreation Park offers additional activities with "a large sporting field car park suitable for big dogs," according to Stuart M. The open spaces provide room for frisbee, soccer, or other field games when not paddling.
What campers like
Pine forest setting: The Scott C. Devlin Memorial site receives praise for its natural environment. Sarah C. describes it as "tucked on a knoll in a pine forest" with "a nice shady spot with plenty of flat space for tents."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being primitive, campers appreciate the upkeep of these sites. One review mentions the Scott C. Devlin site is "well maintained" with "a picnic table, fire ring and composting toilet box seat."
Quiet seclusion: The remote nature of these boat-in campsites provides peaceful experiences away from crowds. Stuart M. describes Moscow Recreation Park as a "quiet spot out of the way," highlighting the solitude available even at more accessible locations near Derby Line.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Finding water access points requires attention. For the Scott C. Devlin site, "The takeout is easy to miss if you aren't looking as it sits right in the bend of the river," warns Sarah C.
Current and loading considerations: River conditions demand caution when accessing sites. At Scott C. Devlin, "There is a set of wooden steps that go down into the water at a relatively steep angle. Be sure you tie your boat up while unloading as there is a fair amount of current sweeping around the bend."
Registration process: While formal reservations aren't required for most dispersed camping near Derby Line, some organization is helpful. "While reservations are not required, there is a registration page on the CT River Paddler's Trail Website that they ask folx to complete just so spots don't get overcrowded," explains Sarah C.
Tips for camping with families
Pack insect protection: Multiple reviews emphasize tick concerns at riverside campsites. Bring appropriate repellents, conduct regular tick checks, and consider permethrin-treated clothing, especially when camping with children who may explore grassy areas.
Boat security measures: When camping with children at water-access sites, bring extra lines to secure watercraft. The current at the Scott C. Devlin site means you'll need "a flat area at the top of the steps where you can tie up your boat for the evening."
Awareness of boundaries: Some dispersed camping areas border private property. At Scott C. Devlin, campers should "follow the path along an electric fence (be careful if you have dogs with you) up into the campsite," requiring additional supervision for both children and pets.
Tips from RVers
Parking alternatives: While true dispersed camping near Derby Line requires boat access and tent accommodations, RVers looking for budget options might consider Moscow Recreation Park. Stuart M. notes there were "no 'no camping' signs" and it's "suitable for big dogs," making it a potential overnight spot for self-contained vehicles.
Limited services: RVers should note that even at locations allowing larger vehicles, services remain primitive. At Moscow Recreation Park, there was only "a portaloo on site" according to Stuart M., requiring self-sufficiency for other needs.
