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Best Campgrounds near Rutland, VT

773 Reviews

The Green Mountain region surrounding Rutland, Vermont features diverse camping opportunities within a 30-mile radius of the city center. State parks dominate the landscape, with Gifford Woods State Park in Killington standing as a popular base for outdoor enthusiasts seeking access to the Appalachian Trail. Lake Bomoseen KOA and Half Moon Pond State Park offer waterfront camping west of Rutland, while Coolidge State Park provides more secluded forest camping to the east. Accommodations range from primitive tent sites to full-service RV hookups, with several parks featuring distinctive Vermont-style lean-tos. The area also includes free dispersed camping options in Green Mountain National Forest, particularly along Michigan Brook Road near Pittsfield.

Most Vermont state parks operate seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October, with limited options available during spring and late fall. As one camper noted, "Vermont unfortunately shuts down most of their campsites from April 15th until Memorial Day to clean and get things in order." Spring conditions often create muddy access roads at dispersed sites, requiring vehicles with higher clearance. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with better coverage near Killington and spotty reception in more remote areas. Advance reservations are essential for summer weekends and fall foliage season, particularly for waterfront sites and cabins, which can book up to 11 months in advance.

Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the Rutland area. Half Moon Pond State Park receives consistently high ratings for its quiet paddling opportunities and proximity to larger swimming areas at nearby Bomoseen State Park. According to one visitor, "Of all the Vermont State Parks we've camped at, Half Moon Pond is high at the top of the list for its privacy, quiet paddling, and proximity to other cool attractions." Mountain recreation also features prominently, with Gifford Woods providing convenient access to Killington's extensive trail networks. Campers frequently mention the cleanliness of facilities, with one noting that "Gifford Woods takes the cake in friendliness of its staff. The park is amazingly clean, well run, located just off RT 4 and very near to Killington."

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Best Camping Sites Near Rutland, Vermont (222)

    1. Gifford Woods State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Killington, VT
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 775-5354

    "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."

    "Decent bathroom situation--I've seen better and I've seen worse in Vermont."

    2. Coolidge State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Plymouth, VT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 672-3612

    "This place gets my vote for best campground in Vermont. Especially true if you're lucky enough to get one of the few sites on the outside of A loop that has a Lean-to with a view."

    "Coolidge is off the beaten path but well worth the wander! There are no water sites, it’s on the side of a heavily wooded mountain with a few sites having amazing views!"

    3. Lake Bomoseen KOA

    10 Reviews
    Bomoseen, VT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 273-2061

    "family camping Kabins, rv, and tent sites, arcade, store, ice cream, and Lake Bomoseen. Easy to get to, close to Castleton, Rutland, and Hubbarton Battlefield. Great spot for a family get-a-way."

    "No ATM on site to get cash…

    The sites are spacious enough, but are very close to each other. Zero buffer between neighboring sites means encroaching slide outs."

    4. Half Moon Pond State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Bomoseen, VT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 273-2848

    "Bomoseen State Park is right down the road, but I recommend staying at Half Moon and taking advantage of the large swimming area at Bomoseen, as well as all the cool ponds, lakes, and hiking trails nearby"

    "The pond is clean and swim-able and great for kayaks/canoes (near Glen Lake and Lake Bomoseen for boating and more kayaking/canoeing)."

    5. Bomoseen State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Bomoseen, VT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 265-4242

    "It was during the COVID-19 pandemic, and we are happy to report that everyone wore masks in public spaces (restrooms), and that there was plenty of room for social distancing. "

    "We had a nice private site, close to amenities and the lake, the beach area was nice,  kind of rocky, but had sand for the beach. The play area has a nice set up, overall a nice camping area."

    6. Moosalamoo Campground

    16 Reviews
    Salisbury, VT
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 767-4261

    $15 / night

    "there are no amenities other than cascading waterfalls, mountain views, incredible swimming hole, a nearby lake, a picnic table and a fire ring. the easiest access to sites one and two is the Silver Lake"

    "Access to campground is on a gravel road but my van did okay. It is small and primitive and there is a camp host who is very nice."

    7. Emerald Lake State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Danby, VT
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 362-1655

    "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."

    8. Chittenden Brook Campground

    5 Reviews
    Goshen, VT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 767-4261

    $15 / night

    "Nice hiking trails close to long trail, really tucked away a few miles off 73. Great if you’re looking for some solitude."

    "Well maintained, and nice access to trails right from the campground."

    9. Michigan Brook Road Camping - Green Mtn Ntnl Forest

    3 Reviews
    Pittsfield, VT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 747-6700

    "I stayed at this campsite located at the end of upper Michigan road. It is winter and there is a lot of snow. The main road to the parking lot is plowed and sanded."

    10. Rogers Rock Campground

    31 Reviews
    Hague, NY
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 585-6746

    $22 - $172 / night

    "For the last three years, we have traveled with dozens of friends and families to Rogers Rock Campground, which is tucked into the north end of the gorgeous 32 mile-long oasis that is Lake George."

    "Ive been coming to this spot nearly every year since I was a little girl."

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Recent Camping Photos near Rutland, VT

515 Photos of 222 Rutland Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Rutland, VT

773 Reviews of 222 Rutland Campgrounds

Guide to Rutland

Camping near Rutland, Vermont, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a place buzzing with fun, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore the scenic trails around the area. One camper mentioned, “We came here to hike the Dalley Loop Trail (which is a great trail full of history), but we wish we had camped here instead of the private campground 45 minutes away where we did stay.”
  • Swimming and Boating: Enjoy the local lakes and rivers. A review highlighted, “The lake and beach is lovely, clean, and the water is warm and clear,” making it a perfect spot for families.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds are near great fishing spots. One visitor noted, “Love emerald lake! Clear waters, calm lake. Sites are on the smaller side but plenty of room. Great hikes and fishing!”

What campers like

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites. A review stated, “This campground was perfect for our group that had 5 small children. The kids were able to safely ride bikes on the camp roads, sites were large and well spaced out from each other.”
  • Clean Facilities: Cleanliness is a big plus. One camper remarked, “The bathrooms are BEAUTIFUL! the nicest I've seen yet. Very clean, well stocked with toilet paper and soap.”
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor shared, “Shelly-Ann and Alan are great hosts and keep a very tidy campground.”

What you should know

  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in some areas. One camper noted, “Zero Verizon service but Wi-Fi at the pool for getting some work done.”
  • No Electric Hookups: Some campgrounds, like Emerald Lake State Park Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, “Showers were hot but minimal pressure. No hot water at the sinks.”
  • Road Conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A camper warned, “The road into the campground is super rough though.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized activities. One review highlighted, “There is a FULL schedule of themed activities for the kiddos, weekly.”
  • Safety on Camp Roads: Keep an eye on kids riding bikes. A parent mentioned, “I was a little nervous for the kids riding bikes because of all the traffic.”
  • Pack Snacks: Some campgrounds have limited stores. A camper advised, “Make sure you stock up before you get there, stuff is expensive at the corner stores.”

Tips from RVers

  • Level Sites: Choose campgrounds with level sites for easier setup. A review noted, “Our site was fine and large enough to accommodate our RV and tow car.”
  • Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with full hookups and clean facilities. One RVer shared, “The campground labels itself as a resort however the small amounts of amenities make it difficult for me to agree.”
  • Be Prepared for Fees: Some campgrounds charge for early arrivals or amenities. A visitor mentioned, “Had to pay $100 for early arrival!!!”

Camping around Rutland, Vermont, has something for everyone. From spacious sites to friendly staff, you’ll find a spot that fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Rutland, VT?

The Rutland area offers excellent camping options with Lake St. Catherine State Park Campground being a standout choice. Located in the Slate Valley, it features 50 tent/RV sites and 11 lean-tos on a lake popular with anglers and boaters. Mountain biking enthusiasts will appreciate the developing trail networks nearby, including Pine Hill in Rutland. Another excellent option is Lake Bomoseen KOA, which provides family-friendly camping with cabins, RV and tent sites, plus amenities like an arcade and store. Its convenient location offers easy access to Rutland while enjoying beautiful lakeside recreation.

Is camping available year-round in Rutland, Vermont?

Year-round camping options near Rutland are limited due to Vermont's harsh winters. Most state parks in the region, including those near Rutland, operate seasonally from late spring through fall. Wilgus State Park Campground is known as the first Vermont state park to open each spring, typically welcoming campers in early May before Memorial Day. For winter camping enthusiasts, Hapgood Pond in the Green Mountain National Forest offers affordable sites at just $10 per night, though accessibility during winter months may be challenging due to snow conditions. Always check with specific campgrounds about their operating seasons before planning a trip.

What amenities do Rutland campgrounds typically offer?

Campgrounds near Rutland typically offer a range of amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. Silver Lake Campground provides spacious, private sites with a clean lake for swimming, a concrete dock, boat rentals, and ranger-led nature tours. For those seeking more developed facilities, Gifford Woods State Park Campground offers excellent facilities for a state park with large sites, access to hiking trails including the Appalachian Trail, and a nearby pond. Most area campgrounds provide the basics like picnic tables and fire rings, with many also featuring boat access, swimming areas, and hiking trails.

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