Camping near Island Pond, Vermont is concentrated in the Northeast Kingdom region at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet with forests of spruce, fir, and northern hardwoods. The camping season runs from mid-May through mid-October, with water access sites typically open slightly later due to spring melt conditions. Cell service gaps exist throughout the region, particularly in valleys and remote locations.
What to do
Biking on Kingdom Trails: Easy access from Camp Kiki with direct trail connections. "This place is amazing! We could hop on our bikes and hit the trails from our site! Short walk or ride to town for food, music, and supplies," reports Cami B.
Kayaking on crystal-clear lakes: Rent watercraft at several locations within 15 miles of Island Pond. "We were able to just walk our kayaks across street and put in right there. There's also access to some trails in walking distance or short distance up road," notes Julie E. about White Caps Campground.
Wildlife viewing and bird watching: Early mornings offer best opportunities for spotting local wildlife. "A beautiful cozy little park with allot to do for the whole family, we went late to see or hear allot of loans but we still heard some," writes Kyle B. about Brighton State Park.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer room to spread out. "Many campsites, some close together, some more remote, all very pleasant and well kept. Ice and fire wood for sale on site," says Julie N. about Brighton State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned in reviews across multiple locations. "The campground is family-owned, and the owner was very kind and helpful. The sites were relatively private and large, and the campground was quiet overall," says Emma N. about Will-O-Wood Campground.
Access to water activities: Lakes provide swimming and boating opportunities. "The site was nice with some great rock features, the sites have enough space between them to give privacy, but you know you're not alone," notes Miccal M. about Maidstone State Park.
What you should know
Remoteness and services: Limited cell service and amenities in many locations. "Very remote. Nearest town about 45 minutes away. Beautiful site- Shadblow. No cell service," notes Kate S. about Maidstone State Park.
Weather preparedness: Even summer nights can drop to 40°F. "Great for Tenters and small campers. Plenty of Bug spray will be needed but well worth it," advises Chris H. about Brighton State Park.
Reservation timing: Book popular sites well in advance, especially for holiday weekends. "We are here for their last weekend the campground is open. Foliage is just past peak, the staff is friendly, the store is pretty well stocked and everything is clean and tidy," shares Keith L. about Kingdom Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer swimming beaches with gradual entry points. "The campsite itself is beautiful. Maintance on campground is very well attended and kept very clean all over. It is on a gorgeous lake to sit by on the beach and watch the stars at night," says Justina C. about Brighton State Park.
Bike-friendly options: Look for campgrounds with internal pathways safe for young cyclists. "It is a county run facility and we were lucky enough to get sites on a bluff. The sites are HUGE! There is a very nice bike trail that runs through the campground, to the city of Newport on one side and to Canada on the other!" reports Bran P. about Prouty Beach Campground.
Insect management: Bring plenty of repellent for mosquitoes and ticks, especially near water. "The lake had to be the most pure and pristine lake in Vermont, the park, trails, lake and community all make this and rememberable trip that'll always have you wanting to come back for more!" shares Kyle B. about Maidstone State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Check length restrictions and access limitations before booking. "This camp ground was really perfect for our first RV camping trip ever. We got space 14 which is an easy drive through site for beginners like us," explains Larry T. about Belview Campground.
Hookup variability: Many campgrounds offer electric and water but not always sewer connections. "Very clean and quiet campground mostly set up for RVs. All RV sites have water, sewer, and electric. Tent sites have water and electric," states Nick about Kingdom Campground.
Seasonal timing: The best places to camp near Island Pond, Vermont often have different opening dates for RV sites versus tent sites. "We stayed here only a few days after the campground opened due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. They were certainly quite busy for only their 3rd day open this season," shares Sarah C. about Brighton State Park.
