Burton Island State Park Campground sits in Lake Champlain about 5 miles west of Milton, Vermont. The 2.5-mile island has shorelines varying from shale beaches to rocky outcroppings where water depth changes quickly. Weather conditions can shift rapidly on Lake Champlain, with winds often picking up in the afternoon, making morning the preferred time for kayaking and paddleboarding.
What to do
Hiking island ecology trails: Burton Island features several walking paths that showcase the natural environment. "There are beautiful trails that cover the island. The south tip of the island gets more wind, and therefore waves, which my children greatly enjoyed for swimming," notes Rita M. from Burton Island State Park Campground.
Explore rock formations: The shorelines around South Hero Island offer distinctive geological features. "Fantastic lake for rock collecting! Very pretty and diverse geological landscape! We immediately started googling the rock formations and it was super interesting," shares Whitney W. about Camp Skyland.
Winter backcountry adventures: For off-season glamping close to Milton, Vermont, some parks offer winter access. "Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve and make sure you park in the allotted area. Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed and the area is not plowed," explains Ed M. about Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Cycling the Island Line Trail: Bike paths connect many glamping destinations around Lake Champlain. "Bring your bikes! You're right on the Burlington bike path and across the beach, there is plenty to do and easy access to town and other attractions," recommends Michael G. about North Beach Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront lean-tos: Sheltered glamping structures with lake views rank among the most requested accommodations. "Our site, like all others, was generous in size and a back-in site. Lakefront sites have a filtered view of the lake through the trees," describes Lee D. about Lake Carmi State Park Campground.
Private sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots despite being on busy lakes. "Great little getaway. This campground is great. Nice and quiet. Campsites are well spaced. Some of the campsites on the outside ring you need to walk into (a very short distance), but it makes it feel very secluded and less like car camping," shares Jess O. about Smugglers Notch State Park.
Remote boat-in options: For true seclusion, paddler-only sites provide a quieter glamping experience. "4 very nice remote campsites on the S.E. side of the island. Wake up to stunning sunrises and spectacular views of the Green Mountains. Spacious sites with fire rings," explains M.A.D. P. about Burton Island.
Clean facilities: Restrooms and showers at most parks receive regular maintenance. "The bathroom was clean with two stalls. Soap and paper towels. One shower that takes quarters," mentions Lee D. about Maple Grove Campground.
What you should know
Ferry logistics: Plan ahead for boat transportation to island sites. "Depending on the weather, the 3/4 mile crossing from Kamp KilKare State Park can be rough and windy. If you are an experienced paddler, have a good copilot, and not too much gear, you would be fine," advises Rita M. about Burton Island.
Booking timelines: The most popular sites require significant advance planning. "Campsites at Burton Island book far in advance. When we booked our Labor Day weekend tent site back in March, there were only 2 leantos (out of 26) left and a handful of tent sites (out of 14)," shares Rita M.
Shower considerations: Coin-operated showers vary in quality across parks. "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," reports Lee D. about Lake Carmi.
Seasonal water conditions: Lake quality can change throughout summer. "The lake had green algae and we spotted several dead fish floating. It made me nervous about the water," cautions Melissa L. about Lake Carmi in late July.
Tips for camping with families
Boat gear transport options: Island glamping requires planning for equipment transfer. "After getting all of our stuff packed on the ferry and arriving on the island, we chose to have the campground deliver our stuff to our campsite for $10... it was well worth it," recommends Michael L. from Burton Island.
Ranger programming: Educational activities enhance family experiences. "The ranger programming was exceptional, as are the views and the nearby areas for hiking and backpacking," notes Harry H. about Smugglers Notch State Park.
Equipment rentals: Most lakeside glamping destinations offer water toys. "We went fishing, swimming, and out in a canoe. We rented a canoe from the campground and paddled over to Wood Island," shares Michael L. about Burton Island.
Playground access: Some parks have play areas for younger children. "The day-use area has a small, dated playground, fire pit, horseshoe pit, and volleyball net," mentions Lee D. about Lake Carmi.
Tips from RVers
Larger site availability: Not all glamping spots near Milton accommodate bigger rigs. "There are a lot of long term RV rentals. Bathrooms were clean," notes Jess O. about Shelburne Camping Area.
Electrical hook-up testing: Check power sources before committing to a site. "My husband is a licensed electrician and of course had his own testing equipment. It showed 25 amp coming out of it," warns Snooz H. about Shelburne Camping Area, highlighting the importance of verifying utilities.
Seasonal availability: Some glamping areas have limited operating seasons. "Very happy. We're just here one night, but we like our experience so far. Very peaceful... nestled among the trees. Quick and easy check in process. Level sites," shares David W. about Maple Grove Campground, which operates May through October.