North Hero sits on an island chain within Lake Champlain, an area characterized by rocky shorelines and protected bays. Summer temperatures typically range between 60-85°F with water temperatures reaching the low 70s by July. The region's unique island geography creates multiple waterfront camping options with east-facing shorelines offering views of Vermont's Green Mountains across the water.
What to do
Ferry adventures: Access Burton Island State Park Campground via passenger ferry from St. Albans or by private boat for a car-free island experience. "This is one of my favorite places to camp because it's on an island and just getting there is part of the experience. After getting all of our stuff packed on the ferry and arriving on the island, we chose to have the campground deliver our stuff to our campsite for $10... it was well worth it," notes Michael L.
Cycling opportunities: Ride the Island Line Trail near Camp Skyland for unique lake views and access to the bike ferry. "He was super friendly and gave us great advice for cycling the Island Line Trail - highly recommend! It was a fantastic campground with awesome views," shares Whitney W., adding "Such a unique experience to cycle across a lake!"
Swimming spots: Find multiple water access points suitable for cooling off along Lake Champlain's shoreline. At Cumberland Bay State Park Campground, "the beach is very clean and beautiful. There is a pump station for RVs but a lot of tent camping as well," according to Michelle D. The park features flush toilets and clean facilities even during high-use periods.
What campers like
Car-free environment: Burton Island State Park prohibits vehicles, creating a peaceful atmosphere. "There are no cars on the island. You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans," explains a visitor. The absence of vehicles allows "free range kids" and creates a notably quiet setting compared to traditional campgrounds.
Camp stores with extras: Several campgrounds near North Hero offer expanded camp store services beyond basics. "No power hookups and no water hookup at site; ferry takes you to the island; for a few, your equipment will be delivered to your campsite; restaurant and store on site; wood for sale," notes Craig G. about Burton Island's convenient amenities.
Rock collecting: Lake Carmi State Park Campground provides opportunities for geological exploration along the shoreline. "Water was great in the early summer when we went, loved it for kayaking," shares Brian J. Another camper adds that "The sunsets were spectacular" from this location.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Premium waterfront sites at popular glamping locations book early, especially at Burton Island. "Waterfront sites book very quickly (like 11 months in advance), but if you don't mind being farther from the main campground and running water, you can almost always rent one of the four primitive sites."
Weather considerations: Lake Champlain can experience quick wind shifts and choppy conditions. "Depending on the weather, the 3/4 mile crossing from Kamp KilKare State Park can be rough and windy. If you are an experienced paddler, have a good copilot, and not too much gear, you would be fine," warns a Burton Island visitor.
Seasonal algae: Some lake areas experience algae blooms in late summer. A visitor to Alburg RV Resort noted: "The place is maintained well and very clean. There is a big playground which keeps the kids busy. Met some very nice people that rent a Seasonal place there. They come every year for 2 months."
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: Choose campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas for children. At North Beach Campground, "You can 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," says Mackenzie B. The campground provides easy beach access with lifeguards during summer months.
Bug preparation: Pack appropriate insect protection for North Hero area glamping. "Mosquitos were intense here, so bring spray & plan accordingly! Our screened-in tent area saved us from being eaten up," advises Whitney W. from Camp Skyland.
Nature activities: Look for campgrounds with frog catching and wildlife viewing opportunities. "We stayed at site 7 in the main tent site loop. While we didn't technically have shore line access, there was a short path through the woods that led to a rocky shoreline where we left our canoe and kayak," shares a visitor, adding that "There are beautiful trails that cover the island."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most glamping sites near North Hero offer partial hookups, but full hookup sites are limited. At Maple Grove Campground, "RV sites are arranged around an oval. Pads are gravel. Because the loop is on a hill, some sites are not quite level, but only slightly," reports Lee D.
Site selection: Request exterior loop sites when possible for better views and privacy. "The sites on the outside of the loop are more desirable but they were not available when I reserved three months in advance," notes one camper, emphasizing early booking.
Laundry facilities: Several campgrounds provide on-site laundry, useful for extended stays. "We appreciated the on-site laundry (which was stocked with books and brochures as well as a table and chairs) as otherwise we would have had to find a laundromat," shares an RVer about Maple Grove Campground's convenient amenities.
