Dispersed camping near Newport, Vermont offers several free boat-in sites along the Connecticut River that create unique overnight options for paddlers. Located in the Northeast Kingdom region where Vermont, New Hampshire, and Quebec converge, these campsites experience average summer temperatures between 75-80°F during the day and 55-60°F at night. Winter conditions can be severe with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing and significant snowfall accumulation.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Connecticut River provides excellent fishing access at sites like Maine Railroad Trestle, where campers can cast directly from "a really nice rocky beach" according to visitor Sarah C. The river contains smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike depending on the season.
Hiking nearby trails: Many paddlers take day trips from their riverside campsites to explore nearby conservation lands. The area features a mix of pine forests and agricultural fields, though campers should note tick prevention is essential. Sarah C. warns that while ticks "weren't bad in the campsite" at Maine Railroad Trestle, "in the grass, they were epic."
Paddling day trips: The Connecticut River Paddlers Trail connects multiple free camping sites, allowing paddlers to create multi-day itineraries. This waterway provides both calm stretches and areas with "fair amount of current sweeping around the bend," requiring some navigation skills, particularly at sites like Scott C. Devlin Memorial.
What campers like
Natural isolation: The Scott C. Devlin Memorial site is "well maintained and tucked on a knoll in a pine forest," providing a secluded camping experience. Visitors appreciate the combination of convenient river access with private woodland camping that feels removed from civilization.
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being free camping near Newport, Vermont, these sites feature basic but functional amenities. The Scott C. Devlin Memorial site includes "a picnic table, fire ring and composting toilet box seat," providing essential comforts while maintaining a primitive camping experience.
Easy water access: Many paddlers appreciate the varied landing options. Maine Railroad Trestle offers what one camper describes as "a really nice rocky beach with easy access for loading and unloading," making it particularly suitable for groups with multiple watercraft or heavier gear.
What you should know
Registration recommended: While reservations aren't required at these free campsites, visitors should complete the optional registration through the Connecticut River Paddlers Trail website. This helps prevent overcrowding and supports site maintenance.
Limited facilities: These dispersed camping areas provide basic amenities only. Bring all necessary supplies including drinking water, food, and waste disposal bags. Most sites have composting toilets but no running water or trash collection.
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings higher water levels and potentially swifter currents, while summer offers more stable conditions. Fall provides spectacular foliage viewing opportunities, but temperatures can drop significantly at night, requiring appropriate sleeping gear.
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: When camping with children at boat-in sites like Scott C. Devlin Memorial, exercise caution with the landing areas. One camper notes there is "a set of wooden steps that go down into the water at a relatively steep angle" and advises to "use caution moving up and down the steps."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about tick prevention and checking. Pack appropriate insect repellent and conduct regular tick checks, especially after walking through grassy areas. As one visitor noted, ticks "weren't the worse I've seen, but they are definitely around."
Pack entertainment: Without developed facilities, bring games and activities suitable for a primitive camping environment. The beach areas provide natural play spaces, while the forests offer exploration opportunities with proper supervision.
Tips from RVers
Alternative options required: The boat-in dispersed camping sites near Newport, Vermont cannot accommodate RVs or vehicle camping. RV campers should consider nearby developed campgrounds or designated dispersed camping areas with vehicle access.
Day use possibilities: RV campers staying at developed campgrounds can still enjoy the Connecticut River by launching day trips from public access points. This allows access to the same natural areas while returning to full hookup accommodations in the evening.
Weather considerations: The Northeast Kingdom region experiences significant seasonal variation. Summer offers pleasant temperatures while spring and fall can bring unexpected cold fronts. Winter camping is not recommended without appropriate cold-weather gear and experience.
