Located within the Green Mountain National Forest, North Chittenden sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation with cold winters and mild summers averaging 75°F in July. The area's proximity to the Appalachian Trail provides unique cabin camping options, with several sites offering direct trail access. Most camping areas don't require permits but fill quickly in fall foliage season.
What to do
Hiking to scenic overlooks: Hike from Rogers Rock Campground to multiple viewpoints around Lake George. "Located at the northern end of Lake George and about 7 miles south of Ticonderoga, Rogers Rock is a boater's paradise. I was here midweek, so it wasn't packed," reports Jean C.
Kayaking on calm waters: Paddle through Half Moon Pond's protected waters, perfect for beginners. "We camped here for two nights for a mid-week getaway. The park is small, quiet and very well cared for. We had a waterfront site so we could launch our kayaks right from our site," says Cynthia K.
Exploring historic sites: Visit nearby Killington and Rutland from Gifford Woods State Park, offering access to several historic attractions. "It's just a short hike back to the pond, which is very pretty and is along the Appalachian Trail. Very centrally located and takes no time at all to get to Killington and Rutland," notes Alyssa C.
Swimming at Emerald Lake: Enjoy the clear waters at this family-friendly swimming spot with a small beach and changing facilities. "It's an awesome park for kids, and the turquoise water is a dream to cool off in. There's a small, sandy beach at one end of the lake, with a bath house and changing rooms nearby."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: At Moose Hillock Camping Resorts, campsites offer rare privacy. "The sites at this park are huge. You could have parked three RVs in our site. Added bonus is that there is nice separation between sites with trees and shrubs that block out your neighbors," shares Nancy W.
Clean facilities: Several North Chittenden area campgrounds maintain excellent hygiene standards. "Bathhouse was very clean, the swimming beach is small but perfect, and there are even cabins for rent on the other side of the pond," says Tara S. about Half Moon Pond State Park.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near North Chittenden, Vermont, Lake George Escape Campground offers several yurt accommodations. "The tent we stayed in was gorgeous! We fit 5 of us comfortably. Linens, blankets and pillows were provided. There was a fire pit, BBQ, picnic table with umbrella, covered platform, and a partition between campsites," Christina M. explains.
Well-maintained trails: Many campers appreciate the hiking options connecting directly to campsites. "There are a couple of small hikes in the park and more hiking nearby. The beach is small, but it is never busy," notes Susan E. about her stay at Half Moon Pond State Park.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty reception. At Lake Bomoseen KOA, "There is NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect. The lake is swampy at this end so not much to look at," reports Dave S.
Weather-dependent activities: Fall brings colder temperatures and potential rain. "Unfortunately, we stayed here on a pretty rainy weekend in June, but I have nothing but good things to say about our visit to Half Moon Pond. We stayed in site T06, which is right on the water," explains Tara S.
Reservation requirements: Many sites book up 6-11 months in advance. "This is a popular camp ground so reserve as early as 11 months before arrival," advises Ming R. about Emerald Lake State Park.
Coin-operated showers: Bring quarters for showers at most state parks. "Bathrooms are clean. Hosts sponsor activities that are fun for all, like a balloon launch, cook outs, etc. Love it there," shares Melissa R. about Quechee State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Lean-to options for rainy weather: Quechee State Park Campground offers several lean-tos that work well for families. "Clean and quiet, good for kids and pets are welcome. There are 2 bathrooms with coin operated showers. There are sites for campers, tents, and a handful of lean tos," Jen B. mentions.
Ranger-led activities: Many parks offer educational programs for children. "Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee)," adds Jen B.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with swimming areas that are appropriate for children. "This is a very popular spot and it's nice to see so many people enjoying beautiful Lake George. The day use area has shady spots and grills, nice for the kids," says Alice C. about Rogers Rock Campground.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There is a nice field for kids to play in, and clean washrooms. The campsites are all wooded. Some are private, while others are a little crowded together," Tara S. notes about Quechee State Park.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Most Vermont state parks offer dump stations but limited hookups. "They do have a dump station if you are in a RV. They also have several lean tos that you can rent," explains Jan B. about her experience at Quechee State Park.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling blocks. "Our site was much smaller than expected, but luckily we only needed space for one tent. Some roads are unpaved, unmarked with directional signs, very narrow, and tough to navigate," Kim T. shares about Rogers Rock.
Site size considerations: Research specific site dimensions before booking. "Sites aren't particularly level or large. Cell phone coverage is spotty, I was getting 1-2 bars with Verizon," Jean C. warns about Rogers Rock Campground.
Seasonal yurt camping: For North Chittenden Vermont yurt camping enthusiasts, options are limited in winter as most campgrounds close after October. "Quechee State Park is open May 19 to October 16," notes Jan B.
