Camping spots near Essex Junction, Vermont offer both secluded forest sites and waterfront locations at elevations ranging from 95 to 2,800 feet. The region experiences summer daytime temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F with cooler evenings dropping to 50-60°F. Fall camping season brings vibrant foliage from mid-September through mid-October, with most primitive sites lacking electrical hookups and requiring reservation at least 2-3 months in advance for summer weekends.
What to do
Kayak and paddleboard access: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for paddlers. At Grand Isle State Park Campground, "There is lake access for kayaking, sailing, swimming and fishing" according to Patricia E., making it ideal for water activities. The park also features a boat launch for easy equipment entry.
Explore local hiking trails: The region offers varied hiking options beyond the developed recreation areas. Smugglers Notch State Park Campground provides "easy access to the whole mt. Mansfield and Stowe area" as Matthew H. notes, with multiple access points to Vermont's highest peak trail system.
Biking opportunities: The area features extensive biking infrastructure connecting multiple recreation zones. John L. highlights that Grand Isle State Park provides "great biking" access, mentioning they "biked to this park from Burlington via the Island Line Trail. It was a super trip." Many campgrounds connect to regional cycling networks.
Historical exploration: Some parks contain historical sites with remnants of past settlements. At Little River State Park, visitors can discover "old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover" according to Rita M., providing educational opportunities beyond typical outdoor recreation.
What campers like
Swimming beaches: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming beaches with varying amenities. Ausable Point Campground includes a "public beach in campground [that] is beautiful" according to kimberly R., while Hollie G. notes that Lone Pine Campsites has a "nice pool" though "no lake access" directly from the campground.
Community events: Several campgrounds organize activities for guests throughout the season. At Apple Island Resort, "The large clubhouse hosts a variety of events like bingo, ice cream socials, dinners, etc." as Nancy W. describes, creating social opportunities for campers.
Site spacing and privacy: Privacy levels vary significantly between campgrounds. Ben C. appreciates that Smugglers Notch State Park offers "private camp sites and a beautiful area" and notes the "staff was helpful and very good about controlling excessive noise from other sites," making it ideal for those seeking quieter experiences.
Proximity to towns: Most campgrounds provide access to nearby communities. Laura L. found North Beach Campground to be the "Perfect location to explore Burlington and Lake Champlain" noting they "loved being able to walk down to the beach, as well as having full hookups."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Competitive booking windows exist for the most popular sites. Ben C. advises to "Reserve early, as [Smugglers Notch] doesn't have a ton of sites and it folds up quickly!" This applies throughout the region, especially for waterfront locations.
Shower facilities: Shower systems vary across campgrounds with many requiring coins. At Grand Isle, "Showers are coin-operated, but $0.50 will get you 5 minutes of hot water!" according to Tucker B., while Mount Philo offers "Coin-op shower with hot water is 50 cents for 5 minutes, 75 cents for 7:30, etc." as Drew Q. explains.
Seasonal camping options: The camping season generally runs May through October with limited winter access. Ed M. shares that Mount Philo State Park Campground offers free off-season use: "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."
Weather preparedness: Despite summer warmth, evening temperatures can drop significantly. Patricia E. recommends visitors to Grand Isle "Brush up on your French so you can converse with the many Canadian visitors" while enjoying the campground's amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Erin S. found that Lone Pine Campsites had sites "right next to the playground so our daughter could walk straight to it without having to cross a road" and noted the playground was "large and very nice," making it convenient for parents monitoring children.
Beach suitability: Not all beaches are equally suited for young children. Melissa L. cautions about Grand Isle having a "Very rocky beach with little to no sand to play in" and being "a bit of a walk to the water," factors that influenced their decision to look elsewhere despite an otherwise pleasant stay.
Educational opportunities: Several parks provide nature programs specifically designed for younger visitors. Grand Isle features "a cute little beach and nature center with youth programs" according to Jessica G., who found it to be a "lovely state park" with a "huge campsite that was comfortable for 3 tents and 6 adults."
Proximity to attractions: Campgrounds with easy access to regional attractions simplify family logistics. At Shelburne Camping Area, Mackenzie B. notes it's "very close to museums, the town, and farm areas," providing convenient access to rainy-day activities when outdoor plans need adjustment.
Tips from RVers
Electrical service reliability: Electrical service quality can vary between campgrounds. One RVer at Shelburne Camping Area encountered electrical issues where testing equipment "showed 25 amp coming out of it" instead of the expected 30 amps, highlighting the importance of having proper testing equipment.
Site orientation considerations: Site layout affects hookup accessibility and views. Nancy W. observed at Apple Island Resort that "Most of the waterfront sites are nose-in and suited well for motorhomes" and that "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.'"
Multi-night discounts: Extended stays often qualify for reduced rates. C O. recommends to "Check out their weekly rate, that cut our cost down. I think the daily rate is in the $40s" at Shelburne Camping Area, where they found the campground's "website does a great job explaining how close they are to all the area attractions."
