Mount Philo State Park Campground stands 968 feet above the Champlain Valley floor, offering a unique vantage point for luxury camping near Hinesburg, Vermont. The small 10-site campground becomes a hub for outdoor enthusiasts from May through October when temperatures typically range from 45°F to 75°F. The park's location on a small monadnock (isolated mountain) creates a microclimate that protects campers from stronger valley winds while providing access to surrounding attractions.
What to do
Hiking trails to rock formations: At Little River State Park Campground, numerous hiking paths showcase Vermont's geological history. "There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," notes Rita M., who found the trails "really good—actually pretty steep" when visiting with her family.
Water recreation at the reservoir: Little River State Park's location on a reservoir creates opportunities for various water activities. "The reservoir is a fun place to explore via kayak and canoe as well as by motorboat," says Hannah H., who prefers the water to beaches that are "very small and full of children."
Mountain biking access: AuSable Chasm Campground offers direct access to mountain biking trails from the camping area. "Lots of ant hills throughout the campground so be cautious where you set up a tent," warns Lee D., while noting the "mountain biking/hiking trails" are easily accessible from the grounds.
Ferry crossing to Vermont: From AuSable Chasm, campers can easily reach Vermont via ferry. "Biggest advantage is that Ausable Chasm is directly across the street from the campground and it is very close to the ferry that will take you to Burlington, VT," explains Lee D., highlighting the convenient location for multi-state exploration.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Button Bay State Park Campground offers a range of camping environments. "Everything from sunny meadow sites to more wooded private sites," describes Barbara Y., who appreciated the diverse site options despite noting "no hookups but have a dump station."
Quiet mornings with lake views: At Button Bay, the landscape creates peaceful morning settings. "We've been camping at Button Bay for years, and while it can be hot and buggy in the summer months, there is no place we'd rather be in September!" shares Tara S., recommending the park for its "amazing views of the lake and the mountains right from the camping area."
Clean bathroom facilities: Shelburne Camping Area maintains high standards for bathroom cleanliness. "The bathhouse was clean. The ladies side had a fresh flower arrangement everyday," notes C O., who stayed in the full hook-up area and appreciated the attention to detail.
Location for exploring local attractions: Shelburne's central location provides access to regional points of interest. "It's very close to museums, the town, and farm areas," explains Mackenzie B., though noting "if you want a campground with a view this isn't a favorite."
What you should know
Shower cost requirements: At Mount Philo State Park Campground, showers require quarters. "Coin-op shower with hot water is 50 cents for 5 minutes, 75 cents for 7:30, etc.," explains Drew Q., providing a helpful cost breakdown for budget planning.
Campsite reservation timing: Availability at Mount Philo is extremely limited. "Only 8 campsites so try to book early," advises Beau B., who found the "sites are well groomed and have a fire pit and picnic table."
Swimming access options: For water activities near Mount Philo, you'll need to drive to nearby beaches. "Recommend nearby Charlotte town beach for swimming ($10 for non-residents)," suggests K G., who found the small campground to be "exceptionally quiet" and "very well-maintained."
Bathroom facilities type: The toilets at Mount Philo are composting style. "The toilets are composting toilets, but from the user experience, it's very close to a regular toilet in that it's in a stall in a nice, well maintained proper bathroom," clarifies Drew Q., distinguishing them from more primitive outhouses.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for privacy: At Mount Philo, certain sites offer more seclusion than others. "Sites 1, 6 and 8 are the best if you're only camping with those at your site as they're the most secluded and private," recommends Drew Q., noting that "Sites 2 and 3 are more open, to both each other, and to those en route to the bathrooms."
Pool availability for kids: Button Bay offers swimming alternatives when lake conditions aren't ideal. "There is a pool for swimming, paved roads are good for bikes & scooters, pavilion for activities, lake for swimming & fishing and hiking trails," explains Lacy C., highlighting the family-friendly amenities.
Playground and recreation access: Smugglers Notch State Park Campground provides direct access to mountain recreation. "It's well kept, private, beautiful, and right in the mountains. Nearby waterfalls are lovely!" enthuses Mackenzie B., recommending it for families who enjoy hiking.
Short hiking options for children: Little River State Park offers family-appropriate trail options. "The hiking trails are really good--actually pretty steep," notes Rita M., who visited with five children and found that "the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water."
Tips for RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for potential leveling issues at some campgrounds. "RV site 8 is so out of level that we couldn't get our Airstream level unless we put 10" of blocking under both axles," warns Brian P. about AuSable Chasm Campground, highlighting the importance of bringing adequate leveling equipment.
Road condition awareness: Campground access roads may present challenges for larger rigs. "The road through the campground is dirt and rutted but the speed limit is 5 mph, so it wasn't that bad, but it would be a mess if it was raining," notes Lee D. about AuSable Chasm, suggesting caution during wet weather.
Limited hookup options: For those seeking luxury glamping in Hinesburg, Vermont area with full hookups, options are limited. "No hookups but have a dump station," notes Barbara Y. about Button Bay State Park, while Shelburne Camping Area offers more services with "the campgrounds wifi worked really well" according to C O.
Advance booking for limited sites: The limited number of glamping sites requires early reservation. "The sites are very private and shaded," reports Tara S. about the Mount Philo area, but with only 10 total sites, securing your spot well in advance is essential for this premium glamping experience near Hinesburg.
