Cabins near Montpelier, Vermont range from basic forest shelters to equipped rental units with amenities. Montpelier sits at 525 feet above sea level, with cabin accommodations typically located at elevations of 700-1,200 feet in the surrounding highlands. The region experiences temperature ranges from 10°F in winter months to 80°F in summer, with average rainfall of 43 inches annually creating lush forest conditions.
What to do
Paddle exploration on Waterbury Reservoir: Little River State Park Campground provides direct water access via a small boat launch. "The reservoir is a fun place to explore via kayak and canoe as well as by motorboat. We tend to hang at the site more than the beaches as the beaches are very small and full of children," notes Hannah H. from Little River State Park Campground.
Hike historic foundations: Short hiking trails from cabin areas lead to abandoned homesteads. "The hiking trails are really good--actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," explains Rita M. about Little River State Park trails.
Visit Groton State Forest: Multiple cabin options exist across this forest system. "This campground is right on the Cross Vermont Trail. I stayed in October and it was really quiet and relaxing. There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," shares Michele S. from Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Winter backcountry access: Some cabins offer off-season opportunities. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March. 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.
What campers like
Waterfront sites with minimal motorized traffic: Ricker Pond offers peaceful water access from cabins. "A quiet camp ground on Ricker Pond, a motor-free pond, is a wonderful way to spend the weekend. The pond is serene and a great place to swim, paddle, explore, and fish. If you paddle or swim to the other side of the camp ground, there is a huge rock with a rope swing," describes Hannah H.
Natural retreat with urban convenience: North Beach provides an unusual combination. "Bring your bikes! You're tucked away in the woods on gorgeous Lake Champlain and can bike into Burlington for meals and city street strolls," suggests Mackenzie B. from North Beach Campground.
Semi-private sites: Cabin locations typically offer more seclusion than tent sites. "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," explains Jess O. about Smugglers Notch State Park.
Location near attractions: Cabins provide access to Vermont's notable sites. "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," reports Alison O.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Booking well ahead is essential. "I've been visiting Ricker Pond for nearly 20 years (except for the years that I don't book enough in advance and aren't able to secure a spot for my desired length of stay). My favorite lean-to site is directly on the water, private, and fills up fast," advises Neena B.
Cold weather preparations: Pack accordingly for shoulder season stays. "Wood-burning stoves or propane heaters are included in some cabins for early or late season comfort. No facilities off season…Carry out all trash/waste. Right in the middle of great nordic and alpine backcountry skiing and snowshoeing," notes Ed M.
Cabin furnishings vary significantly: State park cabins typically have minimal amenities. "The cabins are set back from the water, is private, and also fills fast for the season. There is an electrical outlet in the basic cabins, quarter-run showers, and an excellent country store/restaurant a few miles away that has anything you may need," shares Neena B.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is unreliable in most cabin areas. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," warns Michele S. about Ricker Pond State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-day packages: Family-friendly cabin stays work well for exploring multiple areas. "We stayed here with our 5 kiddos for 2 nights late July. The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water. The hiking trails are really good," recommends Rita M.
Booking strategy: Reserve specific cabin types based on family needs. "I've stayed here a couple of times and both times had a blast. Canoeing or kayaking on the lake is great and there are paddle-only sites available. Some of the best sites are up on a bluff with views over the lake towards sunrise," suggests Miccal M. from Little River.
Activities for children: Look for cabin locations with kid-friendly options. "We visited here with our 5 kiddos for 2 nights. The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water. The hiking trails are really good," shares Rita M.
Accessibility concerns: Some cabins require short hikes. "Took the kayak, only issue I had was getting to the lake. Most sites up on hill looking over lake, not easily accessible from camp site, but still had a great time. Left kayak down at beach," explains Cindy L.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most state parks with cabins offer minimal RV services. "The sites on the pond are beautiful if you can get one. The campground has a small beach, boat launch and it's right on the Cross Vermont Trail," notes Michele S.
Size restrictions: Large RVs have limited options at state parks. "Pristine facilities, private camp sites and a beautiful area. Smuggler's Notch is close enough to Stowe to not be a hassle to drive to, but far enough away that it's quiet and remote," explains Ben C. about Mountain View Campground.
Adults-only options: Some cabin providers cater specifically to adult visitors. "This is a campground for people who RV and want to go to a quiet campground. Facilities are clean and basic. This sleepy campground feels more like a place for retirees than active campers," notes Miccal M. about Lazy Lions Campground.
Alternative RV accommodations: When cabins fill, consider nearby private campgrounds. "Nice family campground nestled in between route 15 and the Lamoille River. Great car accessible tent sites right on the water and plenty of amenities. We'll stocked camp store and two pools," explains Jason D.