Vermont's Champlain Valley region near Shelburne sits at elevations between 95 and 300 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain for camping experiences. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months from June through August. Most campgrounds near Shelburne operate between mid-May and mid-October, with some properties like Shelburne Camping Area remaining open year-round for winter camping options.
What to do
Lake activities: swim, paddle, fish: North Beach Campground provides direct access to Lake Champlain with a well-maintained beach area supervised by lifeguards during summer months. "The beach is very well maintained, there are life guards on duty at the beach and a playground and grills (claim them early if you want them)," notes Meag F. Day visitors must pay entrance fees for beach access.
Cycling the Island Line Trail: Camp Skyland offers proximity to one of the region's top cycling routes. "The owner gave us great advice for cycling the Island Line Trail - highly recommend! It was a fantastic campground with awesome views," writes Whitney W. The trail extends 14 miles from Burlington to South Hero, including a unique causeway section across Lake Champlain.
Winter camping adventures: Smugglers Notch State Park Campground offers rare winter camping opportunities in lean-to structures. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March. Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve and make sure you park in the allotted area. Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed and the area is not plowed," explains Ed M. Winter users must pack out all waste as facilities remain closed.
What campers like
Proximity to Burlington: North Beach Campground provides easy access to Vermont's largest city while maintaining natural surroundings. "Biking into Burlington takes 5-10 minutes and you're also right on the beach of Lake Champlain. A gorgeous bike trail also runs right through the campground," explains Brittany R. The campground connects directly to Burlington's 8-mile waterfront bike path.
Private, wooded campsites: Mount Philo State Park Campground offers secluded sites despite its small size. "Only 8 campsites, dispersed in the trees. $23/night. Picnic table and fire pit. Moderate cell service. Nice hikes and cool views of the area!" reports Kaelin P. The park's limited capacity creates a peaceful atmosphere even during peak season.
Historical hiking trails: Little River State Park Campground features unique hiking opportunities through abandoned settlement ruins. "The hiking trails are really good--actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," explains Rita M. The trails explore a former 19th-century hill farming community with interpretive signage.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping options near Shelburne, Vermont require advance planning. "Check out their weekly rate, that cut our cost down. I think the daily rate is in the $40s," advises C O. at Shelburne Camping Area. Most premium sites book 6-9 months in advance, particularly for weekend stays during July and August.
Limited waterfront availability: Button Bay State Park Campground offers some of the most sought-after lakefront sites in the region. "The waterfront sites are fantastic, they are wide so smaller units can be parked parallel to the lake. Book early for the best sites," recommends IAN P. The park has only 13 waterfront sites among its total 73 camping spaces.
Seasonal shower operations: Most state parks operate coin-operated shower facilities. "Showers were quarter operated, 50 cents for 5 minutes. Firewood sold on site," notes Beau B. about Mount Philo State Park. Water systems typically shut down by mid-October, with bathroom facilities closing soon after.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: North Beach Campground includes play structures adjacent to swimming areas. "This camp ground can be crowded but it is right near Church street, and the beach is very well maintained, there are life guards on duty at the beach and a playground and grills," says Meag F. The playground area includes modern equipment suitable for children ages 2-12.
Swimming options: Button Bay State Park Campground offers both lake and pool swimming opportunities. "This state park is so fun to camp at! It has a great playground for kids and a nice swimming pool! You can hike on the trail and Lake Champlain is right there!" explains Debbie S. The pool typically operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day with certified lifeguards.
Historical exploration: Little River State Park provides educational opportunities through its abandoned settlement sites. "The small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water. The hiking trails are really good--there are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," shares Rita M. Trail maps highlighting historic sites are available at the ranger station.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: AuSable Chasm Campground requires careful preparation for RV sites. "RV site 8 is so out of level that we couldn't get our Airstream level unless we put 10" of blocking under both axles," warns Brian P. Many campgrounds in the region feature sites on sloped terrain requiring leveling blocks.
Limited full hookup options: Shelburne Camping Area offers some of the most reliable utility connections in the area. "We were in one of the last available spots. Site 2 is a flat, gravel back in, 30 amp, full hookup. We didn't mind much, as we really used this location as a base to do all the touristy things in the area and spend time in Burlington," notes C O. The campground provides 30 and 50 amp electrical service.
Road condition awareness: Several campgrounds feature unpaved access roads. "The road through the campground is dirt and rutted but the speed limit is 5 mph, so it wasn't that bad, but it would be a mess if it was raining," observes Lee D. about AuSable Chasm Campground. RVers should call ahead during wet weather to assess road conditions.
