Best Campgrounds near Richmond, VT
Richmond, Vermont offers multiple developed campgrounds, with standouts like Little River State Park and North Beach Campground located within a 30-minute drive. These established sites provide options for tent, RV, and cabin camping amid Vermont's forested landscapes. Little River State Park, positioned on Waterbury Reservoir, offers water-based recreation alongside hiking trails, while campgrounds near Burlington provide convenient access to urban amenities while maintaining a natural setting.
The camping season typically runs from May through mid-October, with most state parks closing after Indigenous Peoples' Day weekend. "Little River is one of my favorite campgrounds ever! A group of friends and I decided to get one last camping trip in before winter hit," notes one visitor about seasonal timing. Winter conditions make most campgrounds inaccessible, though Shelburne Camping Area operates year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak summer months, particularly for waterfront sites and holiday weekends. Many campgrounds feature amenities like showers, toilets, and drinking water, though primitive sites with fewer services can be found at locations like Camel's Hump State Park.
Water features prominently in the camping experience around Richmond. Waterbury Reservoir attracts campers seeking fishing, kayaking and swimming opportunities, while Lake Champlain sites offer expansive views. "The reservoir was beautiful. Took the kayak, only issue I had was getting to the lake. Most sites up on hill looking over lake, not easily assessable from camp site," mentioned one camper at Little River. Sites with water access tend to book quickly, especially those with boat-in options. Several campgrounds feature hiking trails with historic features, including abandoned homesteads and foundations. Family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and ranger programs exist at larger state parks, while more primitive backcountry sites appeal to those seeking solitude.