Camping opportunities near North Chittenden, Vermont range from primitive dispersed sites to well-developed campgrounds with cabin options. The region sits at elevations between 1,200 and 2,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night, even in summer months. Most forest roads accessing remote camping areas close from December through April due to snow accumulation.
What to do
Hiking from campsite: Coolidge State Park offers trails directly from your camping area. "Lots of great hiking accessible from the campground, or within a short drive. Silver Lake and Lake Dunmore are nearby. Both have beaches: Silver Lake is accessible only by foot, down a .6 mile trail from the parking area," notes one Moosalamoo Campground visitor.
Mountain biking: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated trail systems for cyclists. "Moosalamoo campground has awesome bike trails with smooth trail beds and nice rolling bumps. The kind campground hosts can tell you all about the hiking and biking trails within Moosalamoo National Forest," writes a 10-year-old reviewer about their experience.
Kayaking from waterfront sites: Some campgrounds offer direct water access. At Half Moon Pond State Park Campground, "We stayed in site T06, which is right on the water. We were easily able to go straight from the tent to our kayak, which was so awesome." The small pond provides calm waters ideal for beginners and families.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Campers frequently mention the privacy between sites. "The campground is small, quiet and very well cared for. The sites are large, private, and wooded," notes a visitor to Gifford Woods State Park Campground. Another adds, "Each site had a fair amount of isolation and trees surrounding it, and the mosquitoes aren't too bad there either."
Clean facilities: State parks maintain high standards for their bathrooms and shower facilities. At Branbury State Park Campground, "Bathrooms are flushing compost. However, there are only four showers for the whole campground," while another camper mentions "bathrooms were always clean and well maintained. Park staff very friendly!"
Wildlife viewing: The region's forests harbor diverse wildlife. "When you are in the Moosalamoo area, beautiful trees and wildness surrounds you!" shares one visitor. Another notes seeing "lots of efts" on the hiking trails at Half Moon Pond State Park, referring to the juvenile stage of the eastern newt commonly seen in damp forest areas.
What you should know
Bear precautions required: Bears are active throughout the region. At Chittenden Brook Campground, a visitor notes "I saw bear storage lockers but I did not use them as I had my bear keg with me." Proper food storage is essential at all sites.
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate on similar schedules. "We showed up on a busy Memorial Day weekend without reservations and the staff was kind enough to give us their last leanto," shares a Branbury visitor, highlighting both the seasonal opening and the need for reservations during peak times.
Cell service gaps: Connectivity varies dramatically by location. At Lake Bomoseen KOA, "Cell services on ATT and TMobile were nonexistent. Campground WiFi is a joke (less than 1mbps)." Download maps and information before arrival, especially for more remote sites.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas. Branbury State Park includes "a nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. There's a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground."
Activities during rainy days: Weather can change quickly in the mountains. The Lake Bomoseen KOA offers "the standard amenities plus some fun extras (arcade, mini-golf, boat rentals, etc.)," providing indoor options during inclement weather.
Site selection for privacy: Family groups should book strategic sites. At Coolidge State Park, "There are some of the most amazing views right from your campsite. We were not lucky enough to get one because you have to book far in advance to get those campsites."
Tips from RVers
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. Michigan Brook Road camping area requires caution, as "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" Access with larger rigs is impossible at many forest service sites.
Limited hookups: Most state parks offer minimal RV services. At Chittenden Brook, sites are "great tent camping area with good privacy at sites. Would be tough for any but the tiniest RV. No water." Plan to boondock at most locations or choose private campgrounds like Lake Bomoseen KOA for full hookups.
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