Cabin camping near St. Johnsbury, Vermont offers access to the Connecticut River Valley and Northeast Kingdom regions where elevations range from 700 to 2,300 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping months. Most cabin facilities require reservations at least 2-3 weeks in advance during high season from June through September.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: At Brighton State Park Campground, visitors can explore multiple trail systems right from their cabin. "Great trails right in the park, including the Shore Trail and the Boreal Forest loop. There are lots more trails to discover just a short drive from the park," notes Tara S. The park's position offers immediate access to both waterfront and woodland exploration.
Visiting Dog Mountain: Many cabin campers at Moose River Campground include this unique attraction in their itinerary. "We came out here to visit dog mountain and also celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary! This place was amazing! Very close to dog mountain," shares Wyndie G. The site is approximately 3 miles from the campground.
Water activities: Spectacle Pond at Brighton State Park Campground provides cabin campers with swimming and paddling options. "The lake is gorgeous, clear and clean, and there is a beach with sand for swimming. We had our trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground," reports Emma B.
What campers like
Access to running water: Unlike some rustic options, Art and Health Chill Camping provides practical water solutions near their cabin. "There is a common area building on the property with Wi-Fi, a bathroom and a kitchen area, which seemed to be used mostly for making tea or accessing the kitchen sink for water," explains Heather C.
Quiet environments: Many cabin campers value the tranquility found at Lost River Valley Campground. "Very nice, quiet campground. Staff was extremely friendly and helpful. No cell service on the south side of campground," notes Dawn D. This creates a true disconnect from daily distractions.
River proximity: Cabins alongside moving water rate consistently high in visitor feedback. "Every site is surrounded by trees, most near a creek too. Very friendly and clean facilities. Some sites are a bit cozy, but ask about sites together if camping in a group," recommends Sarah S. The sound of running water enhances the sleeping experience.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most cabins in the region have minimal connectivity. At Maidstone State Park, visitors report, "This campground is remote and it's about 45 min. to the nearest town. There is no cell service, even with a booster." Similarly, at Ricker Pond State Park, a visitor notes, "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly."
Shower facilities vary: Ricker Pond State Park Campground offers different bathroom standards depending on location. "The second loop has a new bath house that is very clean and provides 3 toilets per gender and 4 unisex quarter operated showers. The bath house buildings in the other two loops are older and offer three toilets and a single coin operated shower inside the bathroom," explains Sarah C.
Limited supplies: Most cabin areas require advance planning. "This campground is remote. Nearest town about 45 minutes away. Beautiful site- Shadblow. No cell service. Loved it... pretty far away though," reports Kate S. about Maidstone. Pack essentials before arrival, especially when staying at remote Northeast Kingdom locations.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Families particularly enjoy Mountain Lake Camping Resort for its multiple water activities. "Pool with water slides for kids, Kayaks, paddle boats, canoes, playground with slides and a pirate ship. Strict quiet hours at 1030 make it very quiet in the evening with no worry of loud parties keeping you up," shares Josh S.
Nature observation opportunities: Children often enjoy wildlife watching from cabin porches. "We loved listening to the loons in the morning," comments Heather O. about Brighton State Park. These distinctive calls can be heard at several lake-adjacent cabin sites throughout the region.
Multi-generational accommodations: When traveling with different age groups, cabins provide accessibility advantages. "We camped in a large group and stayed in yurts, cabins, the tee pee and tents/trailers. Everyone was happy with their stay. The rental units were clean and some of the cabins even had bathrooms/kitchenettes," notes Erin M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Sugar Ridge RV Village Campground, RVers with cabins should note the terrain. "Entire location on rolling hills gives the feeling of a small campground but it is fairly large. Lots of seasonal campers. Decent cell phone signal (Verizon)," explains Russ V.
Power requirements: Electrical systems vary significantly. "Our site looked angled on map so thinking it would be easier to approach from a certain direction to back in, drove in as I needed but found site was perpendicular to road. Not a big deal but suggest with site map update that sites are correctly placed and oriented," advises Russ V. about Sugar Ridge RV Village Campground.
Backup plans: Always prepare for campground variances. "The sites are very close together, no privacy whatsoever, but the lake is beautiful. Every site by the lake is sandy and great. Loons all night singing as well," reports Angelica H. about her experience at Maidstone State Park.
