Best Dispersed Camping near Newport, VT
The northeastern corner of Vermont near Newport offers unique boat-in camping opportunities along the Connecticut River Paddlers Trail. Sites like Maine Railroad Trestle and Scott C. Devlin Memorial provide free, dispersed camping accessible primarily by water, creating a distinctive outdoor experience for paddlers and tent campers. These riverside locations feature basic amenities such as fire rings, picnic tables at some sites, and composting toilets, while maintaining a primitive, natural setting within the region's pine forests and along the river's edge.
Water access presents both opportunities and challenges for campers visiting these sites. The Scott C. Devlin Memorial campsite features wooden steps at a relatively steep angle leading from the river, requiring careful navigation when loading and unloading gear. As one camper notes, "Be sure you tie your boat up while unloading as there is a fair amount of current sweeping around the bend." Though reservations aren't required, paddlers are encouraged to register through the Connecticut River Paddlers Trail website to prevent overcrowding. Visitors should prepare for self-sufficient camping as these sites lack drinking water, trash collection, and other developed amenities.
Campers consistently praise the natural setting and tranquility of these riverside locations. The Maine Railroad Trestle site offers "a really nice rocky beach with easy access for loading and unloading" and good fishing opportunities according to visitor reviews. Both locations provide flat tent sites with shade from surrounding trees. Wildlife considerations include ticks, which can be prevalent especially in grassy areas and fields adjacent to campsites. Occasional disruptions from ATVs have been reported at some locations. The sites balance accessibility with seclusion, offering paddlers peaceful overnight stops along the Connecticut River with basic comfort amenities like toilets while maintaining their natural character and scenic riverside positioning.
