Camping around Rutland, Vermont ranges from mountain forest settings to lakeside retreats. The region sits within the Green Mountain National Forest where elevations vary from 600 to 4,200 feet, creating distinct microclimates across camping areas. Spring camping typically faces muddy conditions until late May, while summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day and 50-60°F at night.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Moosalamoo Campground, trails connect to both the Silver Lake Trail and impressive cascading waterfalls. One visitor mentioned, "There is a 3 miles (one way) hike to the 'Falls of Lana,' which is really just a cascade, but nice nonetheless."
Mountain biking: The area offers trails for various skill levels, particularly around Moosalamoo. A young reviewer wrote, "Moosalamoo campground has awesome bike trails with smooth trail beds and nice rolling bumps. The kind campground hosts can tell you all about the hiking and biking trails within Mossalamoo National Forest."
Stargazing: Clear mountain nights provide excellent star-viewing opportunities. A camper at Moosalamoo noted, "At night, you can go out to the bicycle pump track and lay a blanket on the grassy hill against the track and look at stars in COMPLETE darkness."
Paddling: Several campgrounds offer small pond access for calm paddling experiences. At Half Moon Pond State Park, one visitor reported, "We were easily able to go straight from the tent to our kayak, which was so awesome."
Historical sites: Several historic locations sit near camping areas. A visitor to Coolidge State Park suggested, "Take advantage of the historical site nearby (President Calvin Coolidge's homestead) and long trail brewing."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. A Coolidge State Park camper noted, "There was plenty of room between sites. The roads going in and leaving were well maintained."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain high cleanliness standards. One camper at Gifford Woods State Park wrote, "The sites are pristine and picturesque, the faculties are decorated with wildflowers."
Mountain views: Certain sites provide panoramic views. A visitor to Coolidge State Park shared, "There are some of the most amazing views right from your campsite. We were not lucky enough to get one because you have to book far in advance to get those campsites."
Lean-to options: Many Vermont state parks feature rustic shelters as alternatives to tent sites. A camper at Coolidge explained, "I stayed at the Basswood lean to site. Private and well kept sites, clean bathrooms, friendly service, gorgeous Mountain View, gave me the real feel of camping outdoors."
Waterfront access: Several campgrounds offer direct pond or lake access. A Half Moon Pond visitor shared, "Sites are a good size and we were able to snag a water front site which was really beautiful. There are also lean-to sites and some cabins. We fished and kayaked right from our site."
What you should know
Limited service: Cell coverage varies widely throughout the region. At Lake Bomoseen KOA, campers report "NO cell coverage and the Wi-Fi is poor and very slow if you can connect."
Advanced reservations needed: Popular sites book quickly, particularly those with views or water access. A Coolidge State Park visitor advised, "I grew up camping here, my parents took us up here every Columbus Day weekend when the color of the leaves were stunning."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds operate from Memorial Day through mid-October. For free dispersed camping at Michigan Brook Road, conditions vary widely by season: "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!"
Weather preparation: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Pack appropriate gear for temperature swings and precipitation. A camper at Michigan Brook Road noted that winter camping requires significant preparation: "I attempted to bring my car and was stuck overnight but was able to dig myself out the next morning."
Fire regulations: Most established campgrounds sell firewood onsite to prevent introducing invasive species. A visitor at Moosalamoo Campground advised, "Get firewood from a roadside stop before you arrive. There is no firewood available onsite."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer swimming beaches with shallow areas. At Bomoseen State Park, a visitor noted, "The beach was lovely - sandy and perfect for swimming. It was fun to watch the boats coming and going too."
Playground availability: Some campgrounds include play structures. A visitor to Bomoseen State Park mentioned, "The play area has a nice set up, overall a nice camping area."
Site selection for safety: When camping with children, choose level sites away from hazards. At Emerald Lake State Park, a reviewer cautioned, "Many of them are perched on a steep ledge, making them a bit sketchy for families with kids. If you have little ones, check out the map before you reserve a site and find one on the opposite side of the ledge."
Cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. A visitor to Gifford Woods noted, "This was a great place to start our camping adventures. Friendly staff and helpful pointing out places to hike."
Short hiking trails: Look for family-friendly trails with achievable distances. A visitor to Gifford Woods mentioned, "The Appalachian Trail runs directly through this park. While on a 4 state section hike I traveled by foot through this park."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have size restrictions. A Lake Bomoseen KOA visitor noted, "The campground is ok. It was a little tight for our 36ft 5th wheel but managable."
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited in the region. For those needing electricity, Lake Bomoseen KOA offers options, though a visitor warned, "I could not get the cable TV working."
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds can be challenging. At Chittenden Brook Campground, a camper advised, "There's a 2.5 mile dirt road with a steady incline into the camp, which my subie had no issue with, but not sure how well an RV would fair."
Site leveling: Many mountain campsites require leveling. One camper at Coolidge State Park mentioned, "I accidently booked a tent site, and my popup camper and truck almost didn't fit. We will have to go back and get a shelter site."
