Cabins near South Duxbury, Vermont sit at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,500 feet within the foothills of the Green Mountains. The region experiences cold winters with significant snowfall and mild summers that typically peak in the 70s. Winter cabin availability varies greatly, with some state parks shutting down completely between October and May.
What to do
Paddle on motor-free waters: At Ricker Pond State Park, visitors can explore the serene pond by canoe or kayak. "A quiet camp ground on Ricker Pond, a motor free pond, is a wonderful way to spend the weekend. The pond is serene and a great place to swim, paddle, explore, and fish," notes one regular visitor. Boat rentals are available at the park for those who don't bring their own equipment.
Winter backcountry exploration: The cabin accommodations at Smugglers Notch State Park can be used year-round if you plan ahead. "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. No facilities off season…Carry out all trash/waste," reports a winter visitor.
Access local trail systems: Camel's Hump State Park offers primitive cabin accommodations connected to trail networks. "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 designated primitive camping area is about 1.5 miles into the hike," explains a camper who visited the mountain's cabin sites.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Little River State Park, the cabin layout provides more seclusion than many commercial facilities. "Clean, quiet campground that feels like wilderness, but is accessible!" describes one visitor. The cabins are situated to maximize natural screening between sites while maintaining easy access to shared facilities.
Four-season accessibility: Certain cabins remain available during winter months, though facilities are limited. According to a Smugglers Notch visitor, "Silent and starry nights, just make sure you have the gear/experience and a warm sleeping bag." Winter cabin users must be fully self-sufficient, as water systems are shut down and roads may be unplowed.
Historical exploration: Little River State Park cabins offer unique access to historical sites. "The hiking trails are really good--they're actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," reports a family that visited with children.
What you should know
Advance booking essential: Many cabin sites at Button Bay State Park and other locations fill months ahead, especially waterfront options. "Book early for the best sites. You are minutes from some amazing hiking, which is great when you don't feel like driving long distances after a day hike," advises a visitor.
Wildlife precautions: Bears are active near many cabin sites. Proper food storage is mandatory at most locations. As one Mountain View Campground guest pointed out, "We were warned to be careful with our food because of 'critters' and when I asked what kind of critters the man responded, 'all of them'. Less than helpful. In hindsight we believe we found bear scat on our site."
Off-season limitations: Facilities are significantly reduced outside peak season. A winter visitor to Smugglers Notch noted, "No facilities off season…Carry out all trash/waste." Plan to bring all supplies needed for your stay during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programming: Branbury State Park offers structured activities for children. "The ranger programming was exceptional, as are the views and the nearby areas for hiking and backpacking," reports one camper. Programs typically run from late June through August with daily schedules posted at ranger stations.
Kid-friendly hiking: Family cabins near Branbury provide access to moderate trails. "The site was so scenic with a little waterfall and stream nearby. A five minute hike- though it is quite a rocky, boulder-y hike- from the sites leads to a small river and swimming hole," describes a parent who stayed with children.
Multiple swimming options: Many cabin locations offer swimming in both natural settings and constructed facilities. "The day use section has a wonderful beach with a swimming area and boat launch. Large trees provide shade on a grassy lawn, and grills are available," notes a Branbury State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Winter storage protocols: When staying in cabins, North Beach Campground enforces strict winterization requirements for any stored RVs. "This has been one of our favorite campsites so far. We loved being able to walk down to the beach, as well as having full hookups," mentions one visitor who alternated between RV and cabin stays.
Utility concerns: Electrical service at older cabin sites can be unreliable. According to a Shelburne Camping Area visitor, "Electricity would not work. We got an error on our control panel that said stop! Power source is not correct!" Test outlets before setting up sensitive equipment in cabin facilities.
Seasonal road restrictions: Many cabin access roads have spring weight limitations that affect larger vehicles. "Getting here isn't direct or easy, but the reward is worth it. Leave your mobile devices off, because cell towers haven't quite made it to this quiet corner of the woods," notes a visitor describing the rural cabin access at Ricker Pond State Park.
