Primitive camping areas dot the northern Vermont landscape near Enosburg Falls, situated within the Lake Champlain basin where elevations range from 95 to 500 feet. Tent camping around Enosburg Falls requires planning for variable weather conditions, as summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with occasional thunderstorms. Several locations require boat access only, offering true wilderness camping experiences without crowds.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: The trail system at Woods Island State Park Campground connects all five campsites around the two-mile shoreline. "There is no ferry service to the island and visitors must make their own arrangements. There are no docks; visitors must either beach their boat or anchor off," notes a camper about this remote area park.
Paddling the reservoir: Green River Reservoir State Park Campground offers 653 acres of water with 19 miles of shoreline specifically designed for paddlers seeking seclusion. One visitor explains, "There are 27 campsites and two group campsites. Most sites are within a mile of the boat launch, a few require closer to a 2-mile paddle."
Wildlife viewing: Head to the Beaver Meadow area of Green River Reservoir where moose sightings are relatively common. A regular visitor shares, "Be sure to paddle out to the Beaver Meadow - we have seen moose there several times."
What campers like
Island experiences: Burton Island State Park Campground creates a car-free environment that transforms the camping atmosphere. "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 one camper who considers it their favorite Vermont destination.
Private camping spots: The primitive sites at Indian Brook Reservoir provide seclusion while maintaining accessibility. A family who stayed there mentioned, "Nestled in the woods are several tent platforms that you can access by foot or by boat. They are spacious but not too private."
Swimming opportunities: Multiple tent camping sites around Enosburg Falls provide waterfront access for cooling off. A visitor at Indian Brook Reservoir shared, "Site was gorgeous and private, right on the reservoir. Really lovely setting!"
What you should know
Transportation logistics: For tent camping near Enosburg Falls without a boat, consider the ferry services or parking arrangements. At Burton Island, "You can paddle out to Burton Island on your own from Kamp Killcare State Park, where you'll leave your car. It's a very short paddle and shouldn't take more than 10 minutes."
Campsite reservations: Most remote tent sites in the Enosburg Falls region require advance booking, often well ahead of time. "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."
Limited facilities: Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape and Tent Haven provides basic amenities, but most island sites offer minimal facilities. One visitor notes, "There's extra fire wood for sale along with a sink to do dishes. A very clean outhouse and shower right on site."
Tips for camping with families
Pack lightweight gear: For Enosburg Falls tent camping sites requiring hiking or boating, minimize equipment. One family at Indian Brook Reservoir advised, "It was a 15 minute hike to the site, so pack light. If you have a kayak, you can transport your stuff over."
Consider cart availability: Some campgrounds provide equipment to help move your gear. At Burton Island, "Once you're on the island, 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."
Look for kid-friendly environments: Knight Island State Park Campground offers waterfront sites with activities for children. A visitor noted, "Not for the faint of heart, Knight Island is only accessible by private boat, though there are a few unregulated boat taxis that will agree to take the boat-less out there."
Tips from RVers
Consider tent-only alternatives: Most remote camping near Enosburg Falls doesn't accommodate RVs, so tent camping remains the primary option. At Underhill State Park Campground, "The camp sites are nice but a little close together. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked."
Look for mainland options: When RV camping isn't possible on islands, use mainland campgrounds as base camps. A visitor to Underhill State Park shared, "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."
Plan for limited hookups: Even at mainland tent sites near Enosburg Falls that permit small RVs, expect primitive conditions. "Very primitive and quiet campground. Great staff and campsites. No shower but one of the best weeks I had camping in a while," noted an Underhill State Park camper.
