213 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping near Peru, Vermont ranges from full-hookup RV parks to free dispersed sites, with tent camping at state parks and federal campgrounds within 10-15 miles. Hapgood Pond Campground and Emerald Lake State Park Campground provide established sites within 10-15 miles of Peru, while Winhall Brook Camping Area offers riverside camping along the West River. These mixed-use campgrounds accommodate tents, RVs, and some offer cabins, particularly at Dorset RV Park which includes full hookups. Grout Pond provides a more primitive option with walk-in tent sites, while the Downed Bridge Camp area allows free dispersed camping.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October, closing for the harsh Vermont winters. "The campground is meticulous as it is run by the Army Corps and they have done a great job," noted one Winhall Brook visitor. Road access varies considerably, with some sites requiring short walks from parking areas, particularly at Grout Pond. Cell service is spotty throughout the region, with visitors reporting "Verizon service and Starlink worked great" at Hapgood Pond, while many other areas have limited coverage. Reservation requirements differ by location, with state parks and some federal campgrounds accepting reservations up to 11 months in advance, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Peru area. Several developed campgrounds sit adjacent to swimming areas, with Emerald Lake State Park featuring what one visitor called "an awesome park for kids, and the turquoise water is a dream to cool off in." Winhall Brook provides riverside camping where "two rivers intersect in the campground" creating opportunities for tubing and wading. Campers seeking more privacy should consider sites at Hapgood Pond or dispersed camping options, as reviews indicate some campgrounds have closely spaced sites with limited screening. Amenities vary widely across the region's campgrounds, from primitive sites with vault toilets to more developed facilities offering showers, electric hookups, and camp stores. Firewood availability differs between locations, with some requiring campers to bring their own supplies.
"Beautiful campground in south central Vermont. On a lovely emerald green small lake with nice beach. Good for fishing and kayaking. Well kept."
"The camp sites are quite a bit of a walk up the hill from the lake where there is swimming, kayaking, paddle boating and picnicking."
"This tops our list for camping in Vermont. There is so much to do here, and yet the campground feels very private and quiet. There are 41 tent/RV sites to choose from and 18 lean-tos."
"This was our second stay at this Vermont State Park. It was a great three days. The park rangers were tremendous in ensuring we had a delightful visit. They worked with us to get the right site."
from $20 - $42 / night
Check Availability"The campground is located where Winhall River meets the West River."
"There is a small group of camp sides with electricity and water but most sites have none. The bathrooms are clean. Where the two rivers intersect is a nice sport to put your feet in the water."
from $24 - $30 / night
Check Availability"Our first time in Vermont and we picked an awesome campground. This place has a great layout with lots of great sites to choose from. There are several sites right on the river!
Clean bath houses."
"Site 16 had a path to the river and was slightly tucked away. Sites 13 and 14 were cool spots too, I’d imagine in the summer you may have less privacy because it’s near the swimming area."
from $45 - $57 / night
Check Availability"My friend and I were desperately looking for a place to spend the weekend, and with Covid making it a little more difficult to rely on walking in and finding a campsite, we made a blind reservation for"
"We were the only campers along the waterfront, but there were a few car campers in the sites near the road."
from $16 / night
Check Availability"The surrounding grounds are mostly manicured fields."
"We appreciate the pond for swimming and the nice easy pond loop trail for hiking. Hapgood is in close proximity to Manchester and near the Appalachian Trail."
"The roads and campsites are gravel and a little tight to get around because of all the trees but we were able to manage in our 45’ motorhome."
"The location was very good in allowing us to visit family in nearby village and go into nearby Manchester Center. Much more of an RV Park (name is on the money) than camping where we had our site."
"Vermont to begin with is beautiful. Getting into a national park to begin with is usually a fee, and then camping is a separate fee."
"All of the campsites are just a minute walk to the water. There is also a nice trail the leads all the way around the water."
from $20 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Greendale Campground is a small remote campground located along Greendale Brook in Weston, VT. There are 11 campsites available in a wooded setting."
"We picked a nice site next to a babbling brook. While we only tent camped we plan to return with our new to us pop up this year. We only saw two cars during our entire stay."
"Great location for a small group to camp at. Can't wait to go back. The main area is a walk in and is worth it. The road into here was easy to drive. "
TravelerMy 2008 Prius handled the road with ease. Sites were spaced out. There was hiking at the end of the road but not too much space to wander around from the sites given the road’s high speed limit. Sites had fire pits and that was it. Very quiet and fairly accessible from society. Given the lack of free camping in the southern northeast this spot is a gem!
ScoutThe Sugar River was probably our favorite part of staying here. There is something really relaxing about waking up, making coffee, and being able to walk down by the river first thing in the morning. We spent our days fishing, hanging around the campground, and exploring the area. Crow’s Nest has a classic New Hampshire campground feel and we would definitely come back.
ScoutVery welcoming... great place. Upkept everything is up to par. Showers are prolly the nicest as far as campgrounds goes.
Guidei stayed here in my Class B for an overnight for a concert in Brattleboro. What a surprise! you might figure that being so close to the city, and the highway, it would be somewhat abused, but not so. Very clean and well kept. There are a couple short hikes around, one with a limited view. both are easy level, 100+ ascent. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked. Dump station very clean and easy access. Noise level, you can hear the highway a little, but not alot. i was here on a Friday night in August, and it was maybe 25-33% full. One unique feature is the adirondack shelters. In pristine condition. Noise is not that much different than campground on secondary roads, honestly. Kudos to Vermont State Parks for their attention.
ScoutPeaceful, quiet, relaxing space. Super friendly staff.
GuideThis campground is pretty centrally located with easy access to grocery stores, gas, and the highway. It is down a quiet road far enough that you do not hear any traffic noise. We stayed in one of the lean-to site, Beech. It was spacious, level, and private. The walk to the bath house was a bit hilly, but relatively close. The bath house is older as others have noted, but it is clean. Showers are coin-operated for hot water. And as you'd expect, buggy in July/August. Bring the bug spray!
TravelerFor the price, it’s not bad. For about $50/night, we got a nice even sandy campsite with a picnic table and fire ring. Not much privacy, though- the neighboring sites are not separated by trees or bushes or anything.
GuideThis is a very nice campground but it is not at Lake George. It is about 25 min to Lake George Village. We had no trouble getting level and the bathhouse was very nice and CLEAN! The owners are very friendly and receptive to suggestions.
RangerWe camped here in the fall and really enjoyed our time here. We had.to hike about 500 feet from our car to our site, but we're no strangers to backpacking, and it was a really.quick jaunt. Our site was right near the water. Great place.
Peru, Vermont sits nestled within Green Mountain National Forest, offering access to several developed campgrounds and dispersed camping areas. Hapgood Pond Campground and Winhall Brook Camping Area provide established camping options for tent and RV camping, while Grout Pond Campground offers a more primitive experience. Most campgrounds in the area feature both tent and RV sites, with Dorset RV Park and Camping on the Battenkill providing additional amenities like electric hookups and water access. The Downed Bridge Camp area offers free dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking a more rustic experience.
The camping season in this region typically runs from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend, with most facilities closing during the colder months. "Weather is amazing. The lake is just amazing. A lot of owls at night!" noted one visitor about Emerald Lake State Park. Road conditions vary throughout the area, with some campgrounds requiring travel on unpaved forest roads. Cell service can be limited at many locations, though some visitors report adequate coverage at specific campgrounds. Reservations are recommended for most established campgrounds, especially during peak summer weekends and holiday periods. Several campgrounds offer reservable sites through recreation.gov or state park reservation systems.
Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the Peru area. Many campgrounds feature proximity to lakes, ponds, or rivers that provide swimming and paddling opportunities. "Beautiful campground with access to 3 river streams. Bathrooms were clean," reported one camper at Winhall Brook. Mixed-use campgrounds like Emerald Lake State Park offer both water recreation and hiking trails. Visitors frequently mention the quiet atmosphere despite occasional road noise at some locations. Amenities vary significantly between developed sites and more primitive options—some provide showers, flush toilets, and electric hookups while others offer only basic facilities. Several camping areas feature fire rings and picnic tables, though firewood availability differs by location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping in Peru, Vermont?
Peru, Vermont offers excellent camping options within a short drive. Hapgood Pond in nearby Manchester provides affordable camping in the Green Mountain National Forest for just $10 per night, with a peaceful setting that's never too crowded. Another great option is Woodford State Park Campground, located between Wilmington and Bennington in southern Vermont. It surrounds Adams Reservoir and holds the distinction of being the highest elevation state campground in Vermont, featuring two beaches including a day-use area. For RV travelers, Camping On The Battenkill near Arlington offers drive-in sites with water hookups and big-rig-friendly accommodations.
What outdoor activities are available near Peru, Vermont?
Peru, Vermont and its surrounding areas offer diverse outdoor activities for campers and adventure seekers. At Jamaica State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy activities along the West River in a private, quiet setting. Mount Ascutney State Park Campground provides excellent mountain biking trails for all skill levels. The region offers hiking opportunities throughout the Green Mountains, swimming in natural lakes and ponds, fishing, and paddling. Moosalamoo Campground provides access to cascading waterfalls, mountain views, and incredible swimming holes. During winter, Peru is close to popular ski areas including Bromley Mountain. The Long Trail and Appalachian Trail also pass near the area, offering day-hiking and backpacking opportunities.
What is the best time of year to visit Peru, Vermont for camping?
The best time to camp in Peru, Vermont is from late May through early October when weather conditions are most favorable. Wilgus State Park Campground opens earlier than most Vermont state parks, welcoming campers in early May with camping cabins available for those wanting to beat the crowds despite cooler temperatures. For peak fall foliage, plan your trip for late September to early October. Gifford Woods State Park Campground is particularly beautiful during autumn, though cell reception may slow during this popular season. Summer months offer warm temperatures ideal for swimming and water activities, while spring brings beautiful wildflowers but potentially muddy conditions. Winter camping is possible for experienced campers, but many campgrounds close for the season.
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