Cabin camping near Jericho, Vermont offers year-round options with varying seasonal access. The region sits within the Green Mountains at elevations ranging from 700 to 4,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the camping areas. Winter cabin rentals are available at select locations, with Smugglers Notch State Park offering off-season access for experienced winter campers willing to snowshoe to lean-to sites.
What to do
Waterfront activities at Little River: Access Waterbury Reservoir for multiple water-based activities from Little River State Park Campground. "The reservoir is a fun place to explore via kayak and cannoe as well as by motorboat! We tend to hang at the site more than the beaches as the beaches are very small and full of children," notes one visitor to Little River State Park Campground.
Biking from campsite to town: North Beach Campground provides direct access to Burlington's extensive bike path network. "Bring your bikes! You're tucked away in the woods on gorgeous lake champlain and can bike into burlington for meals and city street strolls," recommends a regular camper at North Beach Campground.
Winter exploration: During off-season, some cabins remain accessible for hardy adventurers. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March of 2019. 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," explains a winter visitor to Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
What campers like
Island camping experience: Burton Island offers a unique boat-access only camping environment. "It's like going to a tropical island without leaving Vermont. There are no cars on the island. You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans," shares an enthusiast of Burton Island State Park Campground.
Secluded forest settings: Many campers appreciate the sense of isolation despite proximity to amenities. "This campground is great. Nice and quiet. Campsites are well spaced. Some of the campsites on the outside ring you need to walk into (a very short distance), but it makes it feel very secluded and less like car camping," notes a visitor to Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Balance of nature and convenience: Locations striking the right balance between wilderness and facilities receive high praise. "I would highly recommend this campground to anyone looking to visit the Stowe/Waterbury area. We had easy access to hikes in Stowe, plus the Ben and Jerry's shop is about 20 minutes down the road!" reports a camper at Little River State Park Campground.
What you should know
Lean-to availability and features: Many Vermont state parks offer three-sided lean-to structures as alternatives to traditional cabins. "Great facility but a little pricey. Overall though a good experience," mentions a camper who stayed in a shelter at Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Shower facilities vary significantly: Coin-operated showers are standard at most state parks. "Showers are coin-operated, but $0.50 will get you 5 minutes of hot water!" notes a visitor to Grand Isle State Park Campground.
Beach quality differences: Lake access varies dramatically between locations. "Very rocky beach with little to no sand to play in, a bit of a walk to the water," cautions a family who stayed at Grand Isle State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of researching specific water access points.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: State parks often offer educational activities for children. "The ranger programming was exceptional, as are the views and the nearby areas for hiking and backpacking," shares a visitor to Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Farm experiences: Locations near agricultural operations provide additional activities. "Ashley here with The Dyrt. I'm so excited to welcome this new host. This property boasts so much acreage for you to play on," notes a reviewer about Singing Wood Farm, which offers camping near farm activities and a honey store.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. "The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water," reports a family with five children who visited Little River State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placements: RV sites have varying configurations that may require adaptations. "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,'" explains an RVer at Apple Island Resort.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. "The sites in the field are generally un-level, and we had to really work to level our trailer," shares a visitor with a travel trailer at Singing Wood Farm.
Advance booking essential: Many RV-suitable cabin camping options fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Very nice campground, nice staff, the sites are spacious, the grounds and facilities are clean. They have a par 3 golf course and boat docks on site," notes an RVer who visited Apple Island Resort.
