Camping near Killington, Vermont provides access to diverse sites ranging from established campgrounds to secluded forest locations. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from Memorial Day through mid-October, with elevation changes creating temperature variations of 10-15 degrees between valley and mountain sites. Campers should prepare for nighttime temperatures that can drop into the 40s even during summer months, especially at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Access the AT directly from Gifford Woods State Park Campground, where trails connect to scenic viewpoints. "The Appalachian Trail runs right through the park and you can hike up to Deer Leep, around Kent Pond, or to Thundering Falls right from the campground," notes Tara S., who recommends the Bucklin Trail to Killington's summit as another nearby option.
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds offer water access for hot summer days. At Silver Lake State Park Campground, the swimming area includes "a beach with wading depth, sand for playing, buoys to mark the shallow area, a large dock to jump from with a ladder for climbing out," according to Hannah H., who adds that boat rentals are available during the day.
Historical exploration: While camping in the region, visit the Calvin Coolidge Historic Site near Plymouth. Danielle S. from Coolidge State Park Campground suggests "taking advantage of the historical site nearby (President Calvin Coolidge's homestead) and Long Trail brewing" for a day trip from camp.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy available at certain campgrounds. At Moosalamoo Campground, "The camp sites are well spaced and staggered for maximum privacy," according to Nancy M., while Lauren S. notes "Large sites, friendly campground host, the moosalamoo trailhead right next to campground. The trail connects to many others."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is frequently mentioned in reviews. Katy Z. found Gifford Woods had "Clean bathrooms and showers and great cell service for people working while camping!" while another visitor to Quechee State Park remarked, "The bathrooms are immaculate with coin operated showers. There are plenty of fresh water spigots and a spacious dump site if needed."
Mountain views: Several campgrounds offer scenic views from specific sites. Bob W. recommends Coolidge State Park, noting "The prime lean tos have great views. Take a walk to the picnic pavilion which has a great view. Trail around Slack Hill has view of Ascutney. Pavilion and some shelters look over to Killington."
What you should know
Bear activity: Several campgrounds report bear presence. At Coolidge State Park, Michael L. shared: "We were advised that there was an active bear in the campground, but we took the advice of Sean the park ranger. He was very helpful with directions and his staff gave great suggestions."
Road conditions: Access to backcountry sites can be challenging. When visiting Michigan Brook, Maggie F. cautions: "Beware that in Spring the road gets muddy and quite rutted, I would not recommend driving down there with a car that is low to the ground."
Water availability: Water sources vary between campgrounds. At Moosalamoo, Lauren S. notes "Surprisingly clean vault toilets. No showers. There are dumpsters on the way out for trash and recycling. I saw bear storage lockers but I did not use them as I had my bear keg with me."
Tips for camping with families
Best family sites: Certain campgrounds better accommodate groups with children. At Quechee State Park Campground, Jen B. shares: "Clean and quiet, good for kids and pets are welcome. Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee.)"
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Hannah H. describes Silver Lake State Park as having "a fantastic playground. Located at the beach area is also lawn space for games, a volleyball court... very centrally located and takes no time at all to get to Killington and Rutland."
Program schedules: Check with rangers about children's activities. Brittney K. at Quechee State Park noted: "Everyone was so helpful and very nice. 'Good morning friends!' They brought our firewood right to us and even recommended a place to get great pizza on a rainy night."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should consider campground layout and site types. Chris A. advises about Quechee-Pine Valley KOA: "The sites are spaced nicely and seem to accommodate big rigs rather well. We have seen all shapes and sizes come and go, as well as tent campers, and they offer lean to's as well."
Hookup limitations: Most state parks have limited or no hookups. Jan B. notes that Quechee State Park offers "no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in an RV. They also have several lean tos that you can rent."
Level sites: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain. Emil from Gifford Woods shares: "Site 16 is one of the smaller sites and is not super level, but we were able to get the Subaru backed in and relatively level for camping."
