Tent camping near South Burlington, Vermont offers diverse options from lakeside sites to remote mountain experiences within a 30-mile radius. The region receives approximately 37 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush forested environments perfect for summer camping when temperatures average 70-85°F during the day. Most campgrounds in the area operate from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October, with peak season in July and August requiring reservations 3-6 months in advance.
What to do
Hiking at Camel's Hump State Park: Located about 24 miles from South Burlington, this park offers primitive camping sites and excellent hiking trails. One camper notes, "This is a short and sweet hike to one of the higher points in Vermont. It is a beautiful scenic (somewhat strenuous) hike to the summit. The views are pretty epic though."
Swimming at Indian Brook Reservoir: Just 12 miles from South Burlington, this peaceful reservoir offers tent platforms accessible by foot or boat. According to a visitor, "We have explored this park in the winter as well as the summer. 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."
Fishing at Valcour Island: Located 39 miles from South Burlington across Lake Champlain, this island offers free primitive camping with excellent fishing. "Beautiful Boat access only camping. Pick anchorage or sites early as it's always busy on weekends and first come first served (no reservations). Excellent bass fishing and miles of hiking," reports one camper.
Paddling to Knight Island: This island campground requires boat access but rewards with incredible waterfront campsites. "Not for the faint of heart, Knight Island is only accessible by private boat, though there are a few unregulated boat taxis that will agree to take the boat-less out there. It doesn't host a ton of amenities other than outdoor toilets, but it doesn't need to because every remote campsite is waterside."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Underhill State Park Campground, campers appreciate the secluded feel. A recent visitor shared, "Camp spots were far enough away from one another, trees helped with privacy, and the tent site had a great area to setup the tent."
Mountain views: Many consider Mount Philo State Park Campground one of the best tent camping options near South Burlington due to its elevation and views. "Great little park, not many sites but I come here for the short hike and the amazing views. You can't beat them in the Summer, Spring, Fall, or even snowshoeing in the winter," notes one regular visitor.
Island camping experiences: Campers consistently rate Burton Island State Park Campground highly for its unique experience. "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," explains a camper.
Remote water access: Many tent sites offer direct shoreline access. At Indian Brook Reservoir, a camper mentioned, "Site was gorgeous and private, right on the reservoir. Really lovely setting!"
What you should know
Ferry requirements: For Burton Island, plan for transportation logistics. "After getting all of our stuff packed on the ferry and arriving on the island, we chose to have the campground deliver our stuff to our campsite for $10... it was well worth it."
Bear precautions: At Camel's Hump State Park, wildlife safety protocols are essential. "The area had a host who was there 24/7 and a shared area for eating and food storage (I guess Bear's are a problem there)."
Shower facilities: Showers vary widely between campgrounds. At Mount Philo, "Showers were quarter operated, 50 cents for 5 minutes." Meanwhile, Underhill State Park has no shower facilities but clean toilets.
Reservation timing: For prime waterfront sites, particularly on islands, book far in advance. One Burton Island visitor advises, "Waterfront sites book very quickly (like 11 months in advance)."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly islands: Knight Island State Park Campground offers wildlife viewing opportunities for children. "Deer, turkey, fox and smaller animals can be seen throughout the island," notes a winter camper.
Easy setup options: For families with extensive gear, consider campgrounds with assistance. At Burton Island, "You can borrow a cart to bring your gear to your site, or you can pay one of the park rangers to haul it in one of their golf carts."
Swimming locations: Look for gradual entry points for younger children. Valcour Island offers various swimming spots, with one visitor noting, "One of my favorite places in the whole world. And now I get to take my kids camping there, and that's the best part!"
Pack light for hike-in sites: At Indian Brook Reservoir, one family warns, "It was a 15 minute hike to the site, so pack light. If you have a kayak, you can transport your stuff over."
Tips from RVers
Limited options: Most quality tent camping near South Burlington, Vermont has few RV amenities. At Underhill State Park Campground, a visitor confirms, "The campground is in a perfect spot. About a .3 mile hike to the main trail to climb the mountain. The camp sites are nice but a little close together."
Wheelbarrow assistance: Some campgrounds provide equipment to move gear. "They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff, and the campsites are super clean and well organized. We stayed at campsite 6 and loved waking up to the sound of the stream down the embankment."
Accessibility considerations: Many of the best tent sites require walking. At Burton Island, "This is one of those must-visit destinations. There are no cars on the island. It's super family friendly - maybe it's because there aren't cars all over the place, but the island is full of free range kids, and they're having a blast."
