For those who want to get away from civilization for a weekend, but still want the comforts of home, consider renting a cabin for your Johnson camping trip. Finding a place to cabin camp near Johnson is easier than ever. Each cabin rental offers quick access to one or more of Johnson's most popular destinations.
This popular state park, located in Vermont, is a narrow passage that leads through the Green Mountains. In 2003, the park was relocated to allow room for expansions, including an updated campground and sites featuring alternative energy. Despite this, great care was taken to relocate and restore the original structures that were built there by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The site originally housed the many young men looking for work during the Depression era, so it was important for their work to be preserved as much as possible.
Visitors report satisfaction with the new renovations, as the new campground has sites that allow for much more room than before, and ample thought was given to the facilities operating on alternative energy. Campers can now enjoy hot showers, firewood and ice for sale, as well as a new location that provides easy access to Bingham Falls.
Before planning a stay at the park, travelers should be aware that most sites in the park are first come first serve, and not easily accessible by vehicle. Because of the limited space and narrow geography, there are only a small number of sites that can accommodate a trailer or RV. Animal lovers are welcome to bring their furry pals for a visit to the park as well.
Day use of the park consists of a variety of recreation and fun. There's a wetlands boardwalk near what's called the Barnes Camp Visitor Center. Bouldering and cave exploring commonly take place here as well, and when the weather allows it, some try their hand at ice climbing. Day use of the park comes with an entrance fee of $4 for adults, $2 for kids 12 and younger, and children ages 0-3 enter the park free of charge.
$20 / night
Little River State Park, which is part of Mt. Mansfield State Forest, is home to central Vermont's largest and most popular campground. The campground has 81 tent/RV sites, 20 lean-tos, and five cabins. Restrooms have flush toilets and hot and cold running water, and three of the four restrooms have coin-operated hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available, but there are no hookups. Within the campground, there are swimming beaches, play areas, a boat launch, ball fields, and boat rentals for campers (for day use boat rentals and swimming, see Waterbury Center, State Park). Adjacent to the park are miles of hiking trails for campers and day use visitors that take in the rich cultural and natural history of the area.
Remote camping: The remote campsites can be reserved online or through the Reservation Call Center at 1-888-409-7579 starting May 19. Those not reserved are first come/first served. Information about open campsites may be found at each access area. Simply find a vacant designated campsite, pitch in and the park ranger will come by to get you registered. Campsites may be used by any single party for up to 7 days with no fees. Every remote campsite has a maximum occupancy of 6 people, unless otherwise posted. There are privies at these sites, but there is no potable water. View remote camping page here.
Today, Little River State Park is one of the most popular parks in central Vermont. Waterbury Reservoir is particularly favored for boating with a portion of the reservoir devoted to quieter uses. Angling for bass and trout is as popular here as water-skiing.>
Enjoy swimming beaches, play areas, boat rentals and a launch, and miles of hiking and mountain bike trails in the adjacent Mt. Mansfield State Forest. Self-guided history and nature trails are located close to the camping area.
$19 - $28 / night
Welcome to Grand Isle State Park, located on South Hero Island in Lake Champlain. The Island, also known as Grand Isle, is 14 miles long and over 3 miles wide, making it the largest in Lake Champlain. It contains the towns of Grand Isle (on the northern half) and South Hero (on the southern half). The North and South Hero Islands are named in honor of early pioneering Vermonters who served in the American Revolution.
Grand Isle State Park is the most-visited campground in the state park system. With 4,150 feet of Lake Champlain shoreline, Grand Isle is popular with many destination campers who spend their entire vacation here. At the same time, the park location on US Route 2 attracts a high number of one-night campers, while proximity to population centers in Burlington, Vermont and Montreal, Quebec make it an easy destination for the weekend or spur-of-the-moment camper. Park property extends all the way west to Route 2, where part of the land is being kept open by agricultural lease, and some of what was pasture thirty years ago has reverted to woodland.
$6 - $28 / night
Stowe area Camping on the Lamoille River. Enjoy. Relax. Explore.
Mountain View campground offers many great luxuries to make your camping experience easy and relaxing.
picnic table & Fire Ring provided at every site. FREE WiFi available throughout campground!
$29 / night
Camping is one of the most economical ways for a family to spend vacation time together. With money for leisure travel at a premium this year, you may decide that the best way to spend your vacation is to visit the Shelburne Camping Area. We feature spacious campsites with full electrical, sewer, cable, and water hook-ups for RVs and Travel Trailers as well as wooded sites for Tent Campers. A camp store, restrooms, showers and modem hook-up are also available as well as the Dutch Mill Family Restaurant for those of you who don't wish to "rough it" too much, but still would like to be in the beautiful surroundings.
When you arrive at Apple Island Resort prepare to be initially stunned by the breathtaking views. You will be provided with dedicated attention as you are guided to your accommodations. Our helpful team members will be of assistance as you settle into your site, provide information about the resort, and answer any questions you may have.
Take in a deep breath of fresh mountain air and the idyllic view of Lake Champlain. Apple Island Resort features professionally designed oversized full hook-up sites, many of which overlook the lake in a tiered fashion to allow views for everyone. The refreshingly spacious RV sites are perfect for Class A RVs. They can accommodate up to a 45 ft RV plus a vehicle and provide 30/50 -amp hook-up, water, sewer, and complimentary Wifi. Guests have the option of a Platinum Plus, Platinum, or Gold site.
Enjoy the solitude of our 8 tent spaces situated on the bluff in a grassy area away from RV campers and cottages. Take a short walk and enjoy your morning coffee overlooking Lake Champlain. Each site can accommodate two small tents (3 person) or one large family size and has a picnic table and fire ring. Be sure to grab some firewood when checking in at the office.
$55 - $105 / night
$19 - $110 / night
It is impossible to capture on a computer screen the beauty and calm atmosphere of our campground’s riverside setting tucked away in the mountains. The waterfall and swimming hole, the group campfire site in the open field, and the peaceful flow of the river all have to be experienced in person.
Stretched along the scenic Brewster River, our campground offers a delightful place to relax and reconnect with nature. Enjoy the tranquil sight and sound of the river with its 20′ waterfalls. Experience a truly dark night that will amaze you with the number of stars visible when there is no pollution from city lights. Evenings in mid-summer, the fireflies fill the meadow with twinkling lights. Many campers report the best night's sleep in years while staying here.
$45 - $70 / night
Legend
General: Large state park with two loops, both of which are lakefront. A mix of primitive sites (no w/e/s), lean-tos, and two cabins, one in each section. Sites/lean-tos are designated premium (lakefront) or non. There is also an ADA-accessible lean-to. Upon check-in, you are given a gate code to enter.
Site Quality: Our site, like all others, was generous in size and a back-in site. Most sites don’t have clearly defined camper pads, and the surface is grass/dirt (or mud if it has rained recently). A large wooden picnic table and fire ring complete the site. There are plentiful trees, so each site has at least some shade and some are very shaded. Lakefront sites have a filtered view of the lake through the trees.
Bath/Shower House: The one closest to us was very clean. Three stalls and one shower. Cold water only at both the sinks and the shower (at least I didn’t get any hot water). The showers do take quarters and although you get five minutes for each quarter (up to 15 quarters, although I can’t imagine taking that long of a shower), it was quite possibly the wimpiest shower I’ve experienced in quite some time. But, after I finished, I saw my quarter had been returned. The toilet paper was so thin, it was nearly transparent!
Activities: Although swimming is allowed, the “beaches” are very small and there was a bacteria warning in place when we were there advising against swimming. There are two boat launch areas, one in each loop. Great for kayaks, and canoes, and we saw what looked like a fishing boat. There was one very annoying motorboat revving its engine while doing circles in the lake. The day-use area has a small, dated playground, fire pit, horseshoe pit, and volleyball net. There is a short nature trail and one other small walking trail. Nearby is access to the Missisquoi Rail Trail.
A surprise was a family of ducks who visited our site when I was outside reading! Our stay was very quiet during the week after Labor Day, but I imagine the vibe is quite different during summer weekends, especially given the sign in the restroom stating that quiet hours are strictly enforced. We were annoyed by one loud boat so I can’t imagine what it would be like if the lake was filled with boaters. This is why we prefer shoulder-season camping!
Scout
I stayed at Art and Health Chill Camping recently, and it was a truly relaxing experience—just nature, art, and fresh air all around. The only thing I’d advise is to come prepared if you're concerned about health safety. When camping in remote areas, it's always wise to have a few essentials, especially if you’re camping with a group. Personally, I’d recommend taking a rapid STD/STI test on https://readyhelp.it/rapid-std-sti-test/ beforehand. It’s quick and easy, giving some extra peace of mind.
Legend
This is a nice, quiet, and secluded CG for an overnight stay. We didn't have time to check out the area. Gravel roads and relatively level gravel sites. The FHUs were in good order. Slightly low water pressure. It was perfect for our needs. We would stay here again.
Legend
Nice and quiet
ScoutOur first time in Vermont, we were coming from Montreal, Quebec. And while there are many nice campsites to visit in Quebec... we've done them all, within a 2-hour radius. Well, guess what? Lake Carmi in Franklin (Enosburg?) Vermont, is less than 1 1/2 hours from Montreal! I think it must be the closest campsite to Quebec, in Vermont. The drive there was really pleasant too. It wasn't all highway. It took us mostly through very scenic routes in both Quebec, and Vermont.
After booking, I had read some bad reviews about the place - which gave me second thoughts. About the staff being very unpleasant, etc. Well I'm happy to say, that turned out to be absolutely untrue! To say that Kathy, Daniel and really, the entire staff that we met, was very friendly to us, is an understatement. They literally saved our bacon!
It's a long story, but in short... our car broke down at one point, and we had to get it towed. Our phone wouldn't work, and it was by the good graces of the Lake Carmi rangers and staff, and the use of their wireless, that we were eventually able to return back home to Canada. I don't know what we would have done, if they weren't there to help us! So - big thanks to the amazing staffers at Lake Carmi.
We had reserved a site by the lake, and saw that the campground itself was quite nice. Just acres and acres of lush green forestation. Clean grounds and washrooms. A beautiful sunset over the lake. No electrical 'pollution'. No noise pollution - except for crickets, in the field. Other than the car trouble - quite a pleasant stay! We'll be returning next year.
Guide
We recently bought a travel trailer and this was our first camping trip with it. Emma and JC were wonderful from start to finish. They own the property and you can tell they take such great pride in this gem. The grounds are beautifully kept and both were very helpful. We arrived much later than expected because of traffic and this being our first time traveling with the travel trailer. They were very accommodating to our later than expected arrival. Once we got all set up at our site, we were very happy. JC is very helpful with helping guide you in to your spot if you need it. There's a nice bath house with toilets and private showers. It was kept very clean and it was nice to know we could use that if needed. There's a beautiful spot to go down by the lake and watch the sunset over Lake Champlain. We absolutely loved our time there and will be happy to return again. JC has quite the sense of humor and my partner and him had fun conversing. Emma was great at communicating from start to finish and made everything easy and convenient.
Legend
Pros: Full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP) 1.7 mile from #7 Ranked World's Best Disc Golf Course: Fox Run Meadows New fire ring New picnic table Gorgeous Mountain View
Cons: Grass site No amenities No Wi-Fi Soft ground, sinked during setup
Guide
This campground is located in a central area between Burlington and north hero. The views of lake Champlain are amazing. Ex check in and plenty of amenities.
Traveler
We generally enyojed our stay. Really nice reservoir. However the campground is a bit pricey and doesn’t offer dishwashing sinks. You need to somehow fill water in some kind of bucket and then make a mess on your campsite..
RangerNice, wooded sites. Staff was great and very helpful. I didn't see the restrooms with the showers on the one end of the campground, but the restrooms I did see on the end that I stayed were like outhouses but with flushable toilets--kinda meh.
RangerNice, wooded sites. The restroom is a bit dated and dingy, but clean. The shower is coin-operated and could offer a bit more privacy (the stall wall is quite low and right next to the door entering the restroom.)
Scout
The"road" into the campground is more like a goat trail, with numerous washoutsand uneven rocks and dirt. 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. And the whole idea of paying a"lock fee" is total BS, especially when we paid for our site, in full, 2 months in advance. The ladies at the front desk and the maintenance guy went out of their way to try and make things right, but the manager, his boss and Campspot are completely incompetent and only care about making money.
Guidewe camped here in early October and it was gorgeous. Well spaced out sites. Friendly staff , flush toilets, showers, Quiet and peaceful. Good spot to summit Mansfield from.
TravelerBeautiful views of Lake Champlain. Plenty of spots for in and out visitors. Seasonals are mostly elderly residents but set back from the non-seasonal sites. I would definitely revisit.
Guide
Wooded sites, some a bit less private than others. Beach for swimming / paddling. Lean to options. There were some larger groups while there. Staff very helpful.
Legend
We stayed in Site # 3 A. It had a view of the water yet it's a distance away. We had water and electric and a small dump station. There was a tree in our site which gave us a little shade yet no privacy in-between the sites. There is a boat launch, gas for boats and docks to keep a boat. They rent boats there too. You can sit along the water in front of the office.store and chill. It's a nice view and peaceful.
Kiley and Ian the owners are really nice and helpful. They have a small store onsite. They sell beer and wine too. There is a game room and a playground and horseshoe pits and a laundry room. There are a lot of full timers living there.
I love the little farm stands outside of peoples homes along the roads with fresh produce, lettuce and eggs.
We drove out to the point and sat and enjoyed the water view with a margarita. You can fish off the point some people were swimming there too.
The campground is close to the upper NY border on lake champlain.
We went to Cody's cafe for breakfast one day it was good. We needed a real grocery store so ventured to find one. Hanafords isn't that far from there. There is a bakery the other direction yet wasn't fond of the sandwiches. They did see pies there at the bakery.
We went to Vesco Ridge Vineyards and had a tasting. They had some cute items for sale there too. We sat outside on a deck looking at the vineyard. They had some events coming up that weekend I would have liked to have made it back for the massage and wine event. They are also a Harvest Host location.
We drove to Grand Isles and stopped at a Snow Farm Winery. We did a tasting and enjoyed a nice view. There are lots of bicyclist that venture this route and they stop to enjoy a cold beer or wine.
TravelerTerrific location to hike the different trails of ausable chasm. Good sized site with electric and water. Shady but also had sun to dry our shoes from the raft tour. Bathrooms and showers weren’t too bad, the doors are always kept open which means bugs but not too buggy as they are cleaned daily. Did wish more than once that they had those “occupied/vacant” airplane locks.
Traveler
Our stay at Moose River Campground was so nice and peaceful. Our site was pristine and backed by the river. Extremely clean and well kept Campground. The owners are wonderful and very friendly. We would be thrilled to go back.
Scout
The spots are so close to each other that I could hear my neighbor flush their toilet from inside my rv. It was a 110 conversion electric not 30 amp. No dump site on property, i was told my only option was to go down the road to Willo Campground and i could dump my tanks there for $30. Absolutely no internet or phone service in the campground, WiFi worked only if you went up to the office.
Traveler
State Park camping isn't for everyone. If you enjoy nature, want to be able to fish, swim, and hike without leaving the campground;and don't mind being without basic utilities of electric and water on site then this is the campground for you.
Located in middle of Lake Champlain. Grand Isle was one of the most enjoyable campgrounds we've been to. Their in park Naturist, Julia was an absolute delight. She did guided hikes, crafts, and other family friendly activities.
The cleanliness of the facilities was excellent. State Park camping is economical and relaxing. We were pleasantly surprised with all the activities that were offered. Usually it's only the private campgrounds that offer those type of extras.
Scout
All about the family, from the owners to the guests family friendly first
ScoutI enjoyed reading your article about the benefits of camping for mental health. It's great to see how getting outside and connecting with nature can have such a positive impact on our well-being. While camping can be a great way to support our mental health, it's also important to recognize when we need additional support. That's where resources like online therapy service Calmerry come in. Calmerry is an online therapy platform that provides access to licensed therapists for those who may have limited access to traditional therapy services or who prefer the comfort and privacy of their own home. They offer individual, couples, and family therapy, as well as specialized therapy for specific issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma. In addition to seeking therapy, there are many other things we can do to support our mental health while camping. Taking time to unplug and disconnect from technology can be incredibly beneficial, as can practicing mindfulness, getting enough sleep, and engaging in physical activity like hiking or yoga. Thank you for highlighting the connection between art, nature, and mental health, and for providing valuable insights and resources for those who may be struggling. If you or someone you know is in need of additional support, I encourage you to consider seeking help from a mental health professional, like those available through Calmerry's online therapy platform.
Traveler
Very nice place, easy to book reasonable price because of winter season they close the bathroom, but there is a jiffy John waste, dump station have water and laundry, if needed 
LegendGeneral: 70 tent/RV sites and 20 lean-to sites plus five cabins divided into two areas on Waterbury Reservoir.
Site Quality: Good separation and decent-sized, wooded sites.
Bathhouse/Shower: Basic but clean
Activities: Boating, swimming, and hiking. Plus a nature center.
We came here to hike the Dalley Loop Trail (which is a great trail full of history), but we wish we had camped here instead of the private campground 45 minutes away where we did stay. The access road is a bit rough but navigable by all vehicles. The park is beautifully maintained and there are many more trails to explore so it is on our list for a return trip to Vermont!
Scout
We paid extra for a gourmet dinner experience in the gazebo. Totally worth it!!
LegendAshley here with The Dyrt. We're happy to your host Sandy to our platform. Choose from several lodging options on this property. Unique offerings include a health component from meditation classes to sauna and massage. Book your stay and leave them some love.
LegendSince this park is close to where we live, it has become our go to for a quick camping fix. Our family has camped here often. Our latest visit to camp was in July of 2021. July is a busy time of the year for them and most of the sites were taken. We managed to get a handicapped accessible site on the water. Our dog Mia loved the handicapped ramp.
The park is large with 2 loops that can accommodate campers and tents. They have many leanto sites and a couple of cabins. Sites are spaced out for privacy and seclusion. The large lake is being revitalized by an aeration system which has brought back the use of the 2 nice beaches. The main beach is more for day use but there is a campers beach in loop B. There are 2 boat launches which makes for convenient access to the lake for varied recreation. Walleye fishing has always been good here. Sunsets aren't too bad either.
Since it is a large and busy park, it has been known to get a little rowdy at times. Law enforcement now patrols the park which has helped considerably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Johnson, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Johnson, VT is Smugglers Notch State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 22 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 35 cabin camping locations near Johnson, VT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
