Cabin rentals in the Killington region range from rustic to deluxe, with options at both state parks and private campgrounds. Killington sits at 1,165 feet in elevation, serving as a gateway to the Green Mountains where summer temperatures average 70°F during days and drop to 50°F at night. The region experiences higher rainfall during summer months, particularly in July when afternoon thunderstorms are common.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: The AT runs directly through Gifford Woods State Park Campground, providing easy access for day hikers. "The AT runs directly through this park. While on a 4 state section hike I traveled by foot through this park," explains a visitor who appreciates the trail accessibility. Multiple hiking options connect from the campground.
Swimming in natural settings: Silver Lake Campground offers a refreshing swimming spot after a 0.5-mile hike in. A camper notes, "Lake at the top is very nice for swimming and cooling off. Quite a few places to set up a tent too, as well as a picnic area with little grills." The concrete dock provides a jumping platform popular with children.
Paddling on Echo Lake: The crystal-clear waters at Camp Plymouth State Park Campground provide kayaking opportunities with boat rentals available on site. "This Park has a huge beach and picnic area with a snack bar and boat rentals. We made a day of it and enjoyed the whole shebang!" shares a visitor who used their Gifford Woods State Park pass for free entry.
What campers like
Private accommodations: At Chittenden Brook Campground, campers appreciate the secluded cabin option. "Would love to try the cabin on the brook next time, peaked in and it's cute with extra privacy and private view of water," notes a visitor who found the setting ideal for solitude. The campground sits a few miles off Route 73 on a dirt road.
Indoor amenities for rainy days: Quechee-Pine Valley KOA cabins provide alternatives when weather turns poor. "They have cabin rentals, game room, indoor mini golf, arcade, store, ice cream, and Lake Bomoseen," one camper explains. The deluxe cabins often include electricity, beds with mattresses, and sometimes small refrigerators or microwaves.
Space between sites: Campers frequently mention site privacy as a key benefit. "The sites are large. If you stay in the back it's quieter. The bathroom is very clean. They offer showers that cost you a few quarters. There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in a RV," reports a visitor to Quechee State Park, noting the rental lean-tos as another option.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some cabins and campsites sit closer to roadways than expected. At Quechee State Park Campground, one camper notes: "Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant. Might be the nicest bathrooms I've seen in decades of camping." Similarly at Gifford Woods, a visitor cautions it's "wedged between two major highways" despite great trail access.
Water availability: Water sources vary significantly between locations. At rustic sites like Winturri Backcountry Shelter, a hiker reports: "Water was running when I was there in mid-August from a spring close to the shelter," but notes this isn't consistent year-round. Most established campgrounds provide reliable water access.
Reservation requirements: Cabin options book quickly during peak seasons. The limited quantity of lean-tos at Gifford Woods makes advance planning essential. "Apple and Hemlock are awesome lean-tos if you can get them!" advises one camper, highlighting their popularity.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple locations feature play areas for children. A visitor to Branbury State Park Campground shares: "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. There's a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground." The open grassy area near Lake Dunmore offers additional recreation space.
Bear safety: Proper food storage is essential with children. "There are bears in the area, so be aware and store all food properly," cautions a camper at Branbury State Park. Most cabin sites provide storage options, while backcountry shelters sometimes include bear boxes.
Cabin furnishing gaps: Prepare for basic accommodations that require supplemental gear. Most state park cabins include wooden platforms for sleeping but minimal additional furnishings. Visitors should bring sleeping bags or bedding, pillows, cooking supplies, and lighting options.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many cabin camping areas have limited RV accessibility. Chittenden Brook Campground's 2.5-mile dirt road presents challenges for larger vehicles. A visitor notes: "There's a steady incline into the camp, which my subie had no issue with, but not sure how well an RV would fair."
Alternative hookup options: For those seeking both cabin and RV options, Lake Bomoseen KOA offers both. However, visitors note: "No cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect. The lake is swampy at this end so not much to look at."
Limited electric access: Most state park cabins lack power, requiring alternative solutions for device charging. Those needing electricity should consider private campgrounds with furnished cabin options, which typically include outlets.