Tent campsites near Jay Peak, Vermont offer unique island and waterfront experiences during the main camping season from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Campers must navigate boat-in access requirements at several key locations, with varying levels of amenities from primitive to more developed facilities. Winter camping permits are available at select spots for those prepared for cold weather conditions.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Green River Reservoir State Park requires a paddling trip of up to 2 miles to reach remote sites. According to a visitor, "I love this location because you have to paddle out to a site for camping. It's private, quiet, and really gives you that 'forest bathing' escape. There is a lot of beautiful wildlife, and they do an amazing job at preserving the sites" (Mackenzie B.).
Wildlife viewing: Head to the beaver meadow area at Green River Reservoir State Park for potential moose sightings. The reservoir spans 653 acres with 19 miles of undeveloped shoreline offering excellent wildlife observation opportunities.
Island exploration: At Woods Island State Park, visitors can hike the two-mile shoreline trail connecting the five primitive campsites. "Woods Island provides a unique habitat for a rich variety of plant life, including many species that are rare or threatened in Vermont" (M.A.D. P.).
Mountain hiking: Underhill State Park serves as an excellent base camp for hiking Mount Mansfield. A camper noted, "The campground is in a perfect spot. About a .3 mile hike to the main trail to climb the mountain" (Sam T.).
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: Knight Island offers secluded waterfront sites. A reviewer shared, "Every remote campsite is waterside, with fabulous access to amazing swimming, gorgeous sunsets, and fantastic hikes across the island" (Ruby L.).
No-vehicle environments: Burton Island State Park provides a car-free camping experience requiring ferry or personal boat access. "It's a car free paradise that requires a boat or ferry to get to but yields the rewards of peace, nature, and gorgeous shoreline" (Rita M.).
Swimming options: Many island campsites offer direct water access. "You can swim anywhere you can find, and walk down their well-maintained trails" at Burton Island, though be prepared for "a lottttt of bugs/mosquitoes" (Heather B.).
Sunrise views: Woods Island campsites offer spectacular morning vistas. "Wake up to stunning sunrises and spectacular views of the Green Mountains. Spacious sites with fire rings" (M.A.D. P.).
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Many tent sites have minimal amenities. At Knight Island State Park, "It doesn't host a ton of amenities other than outdoor toilets, but it doesn't need to because every remote campsite is waterside" (Ruby L.).
Advanced reservations required: Waterfront sites book quickly, especially for summer weekends. Burton Island waterfront sites "book very quickly (like 11 months in advance)" (Tara S.).
Ferry logistics: Burton Island State Park is accessible by ferry for $8 per person with no extra charge for gear (except $2 for bikes). "The ferry is $8 per person, with no extra charge for gear. They do charge $2 for bikes" (Rita M.).
Winter options: Off-season camping permits are available through Vermont State Parks for some locations. "Knight Island is a summer camping oasis but you can obtain a permit from the Vt. State Parks to winter camp" (M.A.D. P.).
Tips for camping with families
Wheelbarrow assistance: At Underhill State Park, staff provide wheelbarrows to transport gear to walk-in sites. "They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff, and the campsites are super clean and well organized" (Ali T.).
Island activities: Burton Island offers numerous family-friendly activities. "We went fishing, swimming, and out in a canoe. We rented a canoe from the campground and paddled over to Wood Island" (Michael L.).
Campsite selection: Site 6 at Underhill State Park offers a stream soundscape. "We stayed at campsite 6 and loved waking up to the sound of the stream down the embankment" (Ali T.).
"Free-range" environment: The car-free setting at Burton Island creates a safe play atmosphere. "The island is full of free range kids, and they're having a blast" (Tara S.).
Tips from RVers
Private alternatives: For those wanting more amenities than primitive island sites, Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape offers a developed tent haven with 10 sites. A visitor noted, "Clean water, fire wood and cooking rack are provided for your first night. There's extra fire wood for sale along with a sink to do dishes. A very clean outhouse and shower right on site" (Evan M.).
Mount Mansfield views: Some private camping options provide mountain vistas. "We spent the night at this beautiful campsite with a magnificent view of Mount Mansfield. The small amount of camping space made the experience quite unique and private" (Émylie B.).
