Camping cabins near Monkton, Vermont are situated within the Champlain Valley, averaging 400 feet above sea level with surrounding peaks reaching up to 4,000 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with fall temperatures typically ranging from 35-65°F, making it ideal for cabin camping from May through mid-October. Winter cabin options become limited after Columbus Day weekend when many state facilities close for the season.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Dunmore: Branbury State Park Campground offers excellent water recreation with kayak and canoe rentals available on-site. "Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night! 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 Nicole E.
Hiking accessible trails: Smugglers Notch State Park Campground connects directly to Mount Mansfield trail systems. "You are minutes from some amazing hiking, which is great when you don't feel like driving long distances after a day hike," shares Ben C. The park's location allows for immediate trail access without needing to drive to trailheads.
Winter cabin camping: Some locations offer off-season cabin access for winter sports enthusiasts. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March of 2019. 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," reports Ed M. from Smugglers Notch.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Little River State Park Campground offers well-spaced campsites with natural separation. "I would highly recommend this campground to anyone looking to visit the Stowe/Waterbury area. We had easy access to hikes in Stowe, plus the Ben and Jerry's shop is about 20 minutes down the road!" says Alison O. The sites maintain a wilderness feel despite being easily accessible.
Lake views and beach access: North Beach Campground provides waterfront access within city limits. "This has been one of our favorite campsites so far. We loved being able to walk down to the beach, as well as having full hookups. We also met the nicest people here," shares Laura L. The convenient bike path access extends recreational options beyond the campground.
Lean-to shelters for weather protection: Many Vermont state parks feature lean-to structures as alternatives to traditional cabins. "This state park is so fun to camp at! It has a great playground for kids and a nice swimming pool! You can hike on the trail and Lake Champlain is right there!" explains Debbie S. about Button Bay State Park Campground.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Campground bathrooms range from basic to recently renovated. "The bathrooms closest to us was having a running water issue, but it wasn't a big deal for us. The lean too lots looked nice too if you're looking for coverage," notes Catherine M. about Branbury State Park.
Booking windows and seasonal limitations: Reservations for cabin sites should be made 2-6 months in advance, especially for waterfront locations. "Book early for the best sites. Easy access to the lake. Wonderful state park, the waterfront sites are fantastic, they are wide so smaller units can be parked parallel to the lake," advises IAN P.
Bear safety requirements: Food storage protocols are strictly enforced at some parks. "There are bears in the area, so be aware and store all food properly. My family loves camping here," warns Lisa S. about Branbury State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground and swimming options: Grand Isle State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities with beach access. "What a lovely state park! We had a huge campsite that was comfortable for 3 tents and 6 adults. It was a quiet, family friendly campground with a cute little beach and nature center with youth programs," shares Jessica G.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs specifically designed for children. "Vacationing here from NJ. 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. This was definitely our favorite campsite we've ever been to this far," remarks macie about Branbury State Park.
Hiking with kids: Many trails are suitable for family exploration with varied difficulty levels. "We stayed in a wooded area surrounded by large rocks my daughter could climb on. The beach was nearby and included in the stay with horseshoes and a playground," says Desiree V.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: AuSable Chasm Campground has some uneven sites requiring preparation. "3 night stay, tent camping on a site with water and electric. The site we had was quite large, I had booked an end site (#73) hoping it would be big!" shares Heather M.
Limited water and electric hookups: Many state park cabin sites lack full hookups. "Simple campsites and not too crowded. Bathrooms are relatively close and complete with showers! Basketball courts, a park and swimming are some of the things to do there," notes isabel L.
Dump station access: Confirm dump station availability when booking, as not all parks offer this service. "Nice campground. Everything from sunny meadow sites to more wooded private sites. Nice pool. No hookups but have a dump station," advises Barbara Y. about Button Bay State Park.
