Green Mountain camping near Richmond, Vermont offers access to mountaintop adventures between 600-1,200 feet elevation in the Champlain Valley region. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-80°F, and campgrounds generally operate from Memorial Day through mid-October. Richmond's location near the Winooski River corridor creates unique camping microclimates.
What to do
Paddling and swimming at Indian Brook Reservoir: This park features numerous recreation opportunities with multiple tent platforms accessible by foot or boat. According to one visitor, "The Reservoir lends itself to peaceful boating, nature watching and great fishing."
Hiking Mount Philo: The 968-foot summit offers views of Lake Champlain and surrounding mountains. "You can't beat them in the Summer, Spring, Fall, or even snowshoeing in the winter," notes a Mount Philo State Park Campground visitor about the trails and vistas.
Sunset viewing: Find prime viewing spots at higher elevations. One camper at Burton Island State Park Campground shared, "We watched a sunset on the South tip, caught frogs at our shoreline, rented a paddleboard, played in the waves, and enjoyed the icecream sandwiches from the camp store."
Shoreline fishing: Many campgrounds in the area provide water access for anglers. "There is an extensive trail system that is easy to navigate. Nestled in the woods are several tent platforms that you can access by foot or by boat," according to a visitor describing Indian Brook Reservoir.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Many Richmond area campgrounds offer secluded spots. At Mount Philo State Park, "Only 8 campsites, dispersed in the trees. $23/night. Picnic table and fire pit. Moderate cell service."
Waterfront camping options: Access to lakes and rivers enhances the tent camping experience. A camper at Burton Island State Park noted, "Wake up to stunning sunrises and spectacular views of the Green Mountains. Spacious sites with fire rings."
Remote camping without crowds: For those seeking solitude, boat-in options provide isolation. As one Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites visitor described, "These remote sites are so peaceful. Be sure to launch from cotton brook road if your site r11-27."
Car-free camping experiences: Several campgrounds restrict vehicle access, creating a different atmosphere. "It's like going to a tropical island without leaving Vermont. There are no cars on the island. You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans," explained a Burton Island camper.
What you should know
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Green Mountain National Forest sites require self-sufficiency. "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out. Make sure to lock your valuables," cautioned one visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR25.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Mount Philo, "Only 8 campsites, so try to book early."
Pack-in/pack-out etiquette: Many sites have no trash facilities. One Green Mountain National Forest FR25 visitor noted, "There was a NFS sign along FR-25 posted asking people to clean up after themselves (litter and human waste) as there'd been complaints to the extent that they were considering closing the sites if people didn't do better."
Weather preparedness: Vermont's climate can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Tent camping Richmond, Vermont requires layered clothing and rain protection even in summer.
Tips for camping with families
Short hiking options for children: Select campgrounds with manageable trails. A Mount Philo camper shared, "We visited and camped here 3 years ago with children. We love how private the camp sites were. There are less than 20 sites total, and all sites are near walk-in paths to excellent views."
Swimming access considerations: Look for designated swimming areas with gradual entry. "The south tip of the island gets more wind, and therefore waves, which my children greatly enjoyed for swimming," noted a Burton Island visitor.
Nature exploration opportunities: Many campgrounds offer wildlife viewing close to camp. "There are a lot of frogs! The trails are all short enough that they could be explored during one day—or go on them multiple times for sunsets and sunrises," explained a Burton Island reviewer.
Transportation logistics with gear: Consider how you'll move equipment, especially at boat-in sites. At Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape, one visitor appreciated that "Many amenities such as wood, water and outhouse nearby" reduced what families needed to carry in.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many campgrounds near Richmond have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Mount Philo, one reviewer noted the campground is "not suitable for RVs" because "the road is steep and winding."
Limited hookup options: Most sites near Richmond are primitive. A Little River State Park visitor mentioned, "Little river st park wide flat camp sites no hookups limited gen. use hours 8am/10am and 4pm/6pm. Rough road coming to campground. Very quiet."
Generator restrictions: When allowed, generator use typically has strict hours. Campers should prepare for primarily dry camping when tent camping Richmond, Vermont area campgrounds.
