Milton, Vermont and the surrounding Lake Champlain region offer several developed campgrounds with varied accommodations. Grand Isle State Park Campground, about 15 miles northwest of Milton, provides tent, RV, and cabin camping with direct lake access for swimming and boating. Other notable options include Apple Island Resort in South Hero and North Beach Campground in Burlington, both providing waterfront camping experiences within a 20-mile radius of Milton. These mixed-use campgrounds typically feature amenities such as showers, toilets, and electrical hookups, with many sites accommodating various camping styles from primitive tenting to full-service RV sites.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with limited winter camping options. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for waterfront sites and holiday weekends. According to one visitor, "Waterfront sites book very quickly, like 11 months in advance, but if you don't mind being farther from the main campground and running water, you can almost always rent one of the primitive sites." Road access to camping areas varies significantly, with some campgrounds featuring paved roads while others require navigation on gravel or dirt surfaces. Weather conditions in the region can change rapidly, with spring bringing potential flooding along Lake Champlain and fall temperatures often dropping below freezing at night.
Lake access represents a major attraction for camping in the Milton area. Several campgrounds provide direct waterfront access to Lake Champlain, offering swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities. One camper noted, "The best aspect of this campground is being right on Lake Champlain. In addition to the dock, there is a short flight of steps leading to the water." Many camping areas connect to recreational trails, with the Burlington bike path accessible from North Beach Campground and trails through Smugglers Notch State Park providing hiking opportunities. Campgrounds like Burton Island State Park, reached only by boat, offer a more remote experience despite being relatively close to Milton. Cell service can be inconsistent throughout the region, with better coverage near Burlington and spottier reception in more remote camping areas.
$6 - $28 / night
"Beautifully set on Lake Champlain in Vermont! This is a relatively large campground but is well laid out and doesn't feel small even when it's packed to the gills."
"Since the park is on a island in Lake Champlain in Vermont there is water all around. Good places to walk and ride."
$37 - $100 / night
"We stay every year for the Vermont City Marathon. It is a convenient bike ride down the bike path to the waterside park. Easy access to all of Burlington by bike."
"Sites 1 to 16 are close to each other. Sites 113 to 119 are bad. Very close to each other. No redeeming qualities.
Sites have 30 amp electric and water but might need a longish cord or hose."
$55 - $105 / night
"Visit this campground in the fall and experience quintessential Vermont in all its glory. The campground is nice. The people are friendly."
"Brewery and vineyards close by"
$8 - $12 / night
"We had one right next to the playground so our daughter could walk straight to it without having to cross a road. And speaking of playground, it was large and very nice."
"Cool little campground right in Mallets Bay on Lake Champlain. Campsites are kind of close together. Nice pool, game room, and little store. Its a fun place for families!"
$20 / night
"I’d say this was one of Vermont’s best kept secrets, except I don’t think it’s exactly a secret. Even in October, the Park seemed full with visitors and Stowe was hopping!"
"They don't have all the usual amenities its more of a primitive set up. has great clean sites with multiple ways to access mount mansfields trail system which is the highest mountain in the state of Vermont"
"I've been exploring Vermont State Parks since before I could walk, and Burton Island State Park is my all time favorite!"
"Burton Island is a 2.5 mile long island state park off of the shoreline of Lake Champlain."
"This is a nice little private campground in Shelburne, just outside of Burlington. Close to Lake Champlain. Good place to spend the night and good access to activities."
"Lastly, the location was perfect, just outside of Burlington made access to the area ideal."
$22 - $40 / night
"Take a walk up the path next to the chasm. So relaxing listening to the water falls. Great place to watch the sunset! "
"They have some beach and river sites if you like to be close to the water. Showers and bathrooms were spacious."
$25 - $40 / night
"The laundry room is near most sites. The campground is in the perfect location to visit Lake Champlain. There is so much to do in the area."
"Site Quality: RV sites are arranged around an oval. Pads are gravel. Because the loop is on a hill, some sites are not quite level, but only slightly."
"This is a smaller campground tucked away in the bayside of Colchester."
"Right on the water, a nice breeze coming off of the lake, close to everything downtown, but still felt like we weren’t on top of our neighbors. Run by some great people! Highly recommend!"
TravelerFree dispersed camping right off of the road. Includes picnic tables and a fire ring. It is located in the mountains of Vermont and right next to a beautiful river. The only con was the highway noise since it's pretty close to the road. But, it's free, and in the beautiful mountains of vermont so cant really complain.
ScoutEasy to find, quiet & scenic with the river
ScoutMy folks used to take me an my younger brothers there when we were younger to fish an camp or just spend time with family or friends always a piece full place to stay
ScoutQuiet spot out of the way. Large sporting field car park suitable for big dogs. No 'no camping' signs. There was a portaloo on site.
GuideThis is a nice little private campground in Shelburne, just outside of Burlington. Close to Lake Champlain. Good place to spend the night and good access to activities. Sides are somewhat small close together. Bathrooms spotlessly clean. Older couple is the staff, very friendly and unhelpful.
TravelerWith 6 sites, this family-owned campground was the perfect pit stop on our road trip to Stowe. Dig and kid friendly. Has showers, water, and electrical hookup.
GuidePretty nice campground all things considered, bathrooms are definitely rustic but kept clean. Some of the campsites are very close together, and others have a decent amount of space between them, not necessarily a lot of trees in between campsites for privacy. Beautiful views of the water, and surrounding mountains. Staff was extremely friendly!
TravelerI wish I had my bike!!! I didn’t know that this was a biking campground and there were SO MANY trails. Made the most of them with running, but overall, a fantastic campground. Showers were clean, staff was very friendly. Sites and attractions within walking distance (but busy roads to cross).
GuideThere are a handful of sites down Austin Brook road, I had trouble finding a level spot. Minimal ATT reception but overall pretty area
Milton, Vermont sits near the eastern shore of Lake Champlain at about 400 feet elevation, with the Green Mountains rising to the east. The area experiences distinct seasons with colorful fall foliage, warm summers ideal for lake activities, and snowy winters. Camping opportunities range from lakeside sites with beach access to more wooded settings in the foothills.
Paddling adventures: Launch a kayak or canoe at Grand Isle State Park Campground to explore Lake Champlain. "Kayaking, sailing and fishing abound at this sprawling facility. Just a quick ride to Burlington, VT, if the quiet is too much for you," notes Patricia E.
Biking the Island Line Trail: The North Beach Campground connects directly to Burlington's bike network. "You're tucked away in the woods on gorgeous lake champlain and can bike into burlington for meals and city street strolls," shares Mackenzie B. Another camper adds, "We biked to this park from Burlington via the Island Line Trail. It was a super trip."
Hiking Mt. Mansfield: Use Smugglers Notch State Park Campground as your base for exploring Vermont's highest peak. "It has great clean sites with multiple ways to access mount mansfields trail system which is the highest mountain in the state of Vermont," explains Michael V. The park also offers "easy access to lots of hiking trails, although I would suggest driving to the trailheads as route 108 is not fun to walk along."
Waterfront lean-tos: The lean-to sites at Grand Isle State Park offer protection from rain while keeping you close to nature. "We spent 4 nights in a 'prime' lean-to at this location on the Vermont side of Lake Champlain. The views, staff and cleanliness of this place did not disappoint," says Patricia E.
Beach access: Many camping sites near Milton, Vermont feature direct lake access. At Apple Island Resort, "Tiered levels and offsets spots give many views of Lake Champlain," mentions Dawn. The resort offers "great views of the lake in multiple directions. The sites are pretty large and level."
Urban proximity: Campers appreciate how camping near Milton balances natural settings with access to city amenities. "Burlington is my favorite city by far, and this campground is right on the beach! You get the best of both worlds at this location," writes Brittany R. about North Beach Campground. "Biking into Burlington takes 5-10 minutes and you're also right on the beach of Lake Champlain."
Seasonal considerations: Most camping sites near Milton close for winter. "Season: May 1 to Oct 15" is typical for many campgrounds in the area. Plan ahead for fall camping as spaces fill quickly during peak foliage season.
Ferry access: Some campgrounds require boat transportation. Burton Island State Park Campground is only accessible by boat. "Getting to the island was the hardest part. Depending on the weather, the 3/4 mile crossing from Kamp KilKare State Park can be rough and windy," notes Rita M. The Island Runner Ferry costs "$8 per person, with no extra charge for gear. They do charge $2 for bikes."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping options are available in Milton, Ontario?
Milton offers diverse camping experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Kelso Conservation Area provides serviced and unserviced sites in a natural setting with lake access. For families seeking amenities, Mountain View Campground offers riverside camping with pools and a camp store. Milton's proximity to natural areas means campers can enjoy hiking trails, water activities, and scenic landscapes. The region typically accommodates tent camping, RVs, and some glamping options. Campgrounds generally operate from May through October, with reservations recommended during peak summer months. Most sites include standard amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and access to bathroom facilities.
What are the rules and facilities at Kelso Conservation Area campground in Milton?
Kelso Conservation Area enforces quiet hours typically from 11pm to 7am, with a maximum of 6 people per site. Grand Isle State Park Campground offers insights into similar conservation area facilities, featuring clean restrooms, hot showers, and friendly staff. Facilities at Kelso likely include potable water, flush toilets, and shower buildings. Campfires are permitted in designated rings only, and firewood should be purchased locally to prevent pest spread. The campground provides access to surrounding trails and water activities. Most sites accommodate both tents and RVs, though hookup availability varies by section. Pets must be leashed and supervised at all times. Alcohol is permitted at campsites but prohibited in common areas.
Is camping allowed at Rattlesnake Point near Milton?
No, overnight camping is not permitted at Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area. This popular climbing and hiking destination is day-use only. For nearby overnight options, consider Art and Health Chill Camping which offers private land camping with various accommodation options including cabins and open sites for RVs or tents. Alternatively, North Beach Campground provides a spacious environment with sites that can accommodate different camping setups. Both options offer reasonable proximity to Milton while providing the overnight accommodations that Rattlesnake Point lacks. Always check for reservation requirements, especially during peak summer months.
Keep Exploring
