Branbury State Park Campground provides options for horse enthusiasts near Killington, Vermont, with established campgrounds that can accommodate various needs. The park features wooded and lakeside campsites with spacious areas suitable for setting up horse containment. While the park does not have dedicated horse corrals, the large campsites allow visitors to create temporary containment options. Campers note the freshly raked sites and ample space between lots create a comfortable environment for both campers and animals. The park operates seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend, making it accessible during prime riding months.
Located near hiking and biking trails that permit horseback riding, Branbury State Park offers scenic terrain for equestrian exploration. The proximity to Lake Dunmore provides water access for horses after trail rides. Nearby Tippicanoe Campground in New Hampshire presents another option with pet-friendly policies and full hookup sites that can accommodate horse trailers. Both locations require proper food storage due to local wildlife, including black bears in the area. Proper manure management is expected at these campgrounds, with disposal areas designated for waste. The spacious sites allow for parking both camping vehicles and horse trailers, though reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak summer months when these campgrounds reach capacity.
"Nice campground near Killington, VT. Water and dump station. Not for big rigs we have a 21 ft TT. Things were tight but doable. One of the few Vermont state campgrounds that is still open."
"The park is amazingly clean, well run, located just of RT 4 and very near to Killington, Vermont. It has multiple lean-to sites which are in wooded areas."
"The site was so scenic with a little waterfall and stream nearby. The camp staff was so nice. They kept the the bathrooms and areas so clean."
"Love to lake access, secluded camping, the hiking and remote area. Planning on revisiting next summer, even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time."
from $35 - $45 / night
from $125 - $500 / night
GuideNice campground near Killington, VT. Water and dump station. Not for big rigs we have a 21 ft TT. Things were tight but doable. One of the few Vermont state campgrounds that is still open. Most close from second Monday in October until Memorial Day.
ScoutPeaceful, quiet, relaxing space. Super friendly staff.
ScoutWhen camping in VT it is usually our goal to hike, rest, cook, and relax at camp. We live in a busy/loud city so we really love a rural spot where we can just unplug and enjoy nature. Gifford Woods has great access to the AT and the Long Trail, nice bathrooms, and kind staff... but campers beware- it is wedged between two major highways. Initially we pulled up to the site "Poplar" after driving 4+ hours and I could have cried, this site faces a large DOT/Parks Dept. parking lot with a huge building and trucks everywhere. Luckily the (very sweet) staff said they understood that this was an issue and that they do get lots of complaints about that site. They moved us to T02 which was dramatically better. Unfortunately, you can still hear trucks/car honking/ambulances from that site and I assume all other sites. I understand now that people camp here just for AT access, but I would probably not go back due to the sheer volume of the neighboring highways and quieter camping options nearby.
RangerSpacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits. Definitely will be returning! Also, bathrooms were always clean and well maintained. Park staff very friendly!
LegendPlenty of space between sites. Decent bathroom situation--I've seen better and I've seen worse in Vermont. The (AT&T) cell phone reception was pretty good, but could be slow at times (which could be because of the area or because of the busy fall color season.)
ScoutFrom the drive to the park, to the friendliness of the manager Brittany, to the facilities, and the hiking trails, this park met our every expectation.
This was our first camping with our two adult pups. One can be a barker depending on certain triggers. So we stayed in one of the lovely rustic cabins. We love hiking and there is no shortage of hiking trails in and around the park, including the AT that runs right through the park.
I can't say enough good things about how well the park is maintained. Bathrooms were frequently cleaned and the park was meticulously maintained. We drove by another VT state park too, and maintenance crews were seen blowing the leaves etc. and in general taking good care of the parks.
Gifford Woods is definitely on my list of must return to parks...We like to try new parks, but this one earned the spot to be a return spot.
LegendWe showed up on a busy Memorial Day weekend without reservations and the staff was kind enough to give us their last leanto. This place has access to some of the best hiking and paddling in the state.
LegendWe camped here for the Fourth of July weekend. The park is small, clean and friendly. The sites are semi secluded and through hikers on the AT/LT can find rest and shelter at this park. There has been an increase in Black Bear activity but that won't deter us from ever coming back.
RangerGreat campground with many hiking trails and a peaceful pond with fishing across the street. Clean bathrooms and showers and great cell service for people working while camping! Stayed at site 15 in the lower campground for a few nights and it was level and spacious but pretty close to neighbors compared to other sites. Then we moved to lean to ELM in the upper campground and it was a nice private site. It was perched on a hill but we were still able to park and sleep in our van next to the lean to. Highly recommend!
Branbury State Park Campground offers horseback riding possibilities within a wooded setting near Killington, Vermont. The park sits at the base of Mt. Moosalamoo and borders Lake Dunmore at an elevation of 556 feet. Sites are available from late May through early October with average summer temperatures ranging from 78°F days to 53°F nights, creating comfortable riding conditions.
Trail riding access: Several trails near Branbury State Park Campground connect to the surrounding forest areas. "There was plenty of space between sites so it didn't feel like you were on top of each other. A five minute hike- though it is quite a rocky, boulder-y hike- from the sites leads to a small river and swimming hole," notes camper Nicole E.
Lake activities for horse riders: After trail riding, campers can enjoy Lake Dunmore, which sits directly across from the campground. "Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night!" shares Nicole E.
Explore nearby mountains: The campground's proximity to mountain trails provides equestrian access to scenic terrain. "We decided to take our jeep and test out our rooftop tent at this site. We were so impressed at the beautiful scenery especially across the street from the beach," reports Macie about Tippicanoe Campground.
Spacious campsites: The large sites accommodate horse trailers and equipment. "I couldn't believe how large the lots were. While they aren't super far from one another, they are large enough that they seem further than they are. Nice beautiful wooded area, we were able to put a tent and hang a hammock for sleeping," says Catherine M. about Branbury State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained amenities. "The camp staff was so nice. They kept the bathrooms and areas so clean. Bathrooms are flushing compost. However, there are only four showers for the whole campground," notes Nicole E.
Variety of site options: Different camping environments cater to various preferences. "The camp sites near the beach are in a large grassy field, and across the road, the campsites are wooded, and some have lean tos. The hiking trails nearby are very nice," shares Lisa S.
Bear safety required: Black bears are active in this region. "Just make sure you put your food and trash away- there are black bears in the area!" warns Nicole E. from NV Farms Outfitters and Cabins.
Limited shower facilities: Despite the campground's size, shower access can be restricted. "Bathrooms are flushing compost. However, there are only four showers for the whole campground," Nicole E. points out.
Seasonal considerations: The Vermont camping season affects availability for horseback riders. "Fall in New England can't be beat," shares Ryan, highlighting the colorful autumn riding season, while another camper mentions, "Even in August the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time."
Beach access for cooling off: After dusty trail rides, families appreciate the swimming areas. "The day use section has a wonderful beach with a swimming area and boat launch. Large trees provide shade on a grassy lawn, and grills are available," explains Lisa S. about Branbury State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Various recreational options keep children entertained. "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. Volleyball and horseshoe pits," J L. details.
Book lean-tos early: Covered shelters provide weather protection for families with horses. "Book early if you want to get a site with a lean-to!" advises Nicole E., while M.A.D. P. adds, "We showed up on a busy Memorial Day weekend without reservations and the staff was kind enough to give us their last leanto."
Full hookup options: RVers with horse trailers can find appropriate accommodations. "Another beautiful state park. There are approximately 50 campsites split across two areas. One section is heavily wooded and the other is an open grassy area near the shore of Lake Dunmore. No hookups are available but there is a dump station and a bathroom facility with paid showers," shares Trip Over Life.
Site selection considerations: Choosing the right location affects comfort. "The lot was freshly raked and there really wasn't anything we didn't like about the site. Campfire pit had a grill!" Catherine M. notes about her experience at the equestrian-friendly campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Killington, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Killington, VT is Gifford Woods State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 19 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Killington, VT?
TheDyrt.com has all 4 equestrian camping locations near Killington, VT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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