Cabins near Sutton, Vermont provide convenient access to the mountainous Northeast Kingdom region, where elevations range from 700 to 3,000+ feet with cool summer nights averaging 55°F. This rural area includes over 40,000 acres of state forests with limited cellular service at many campgrounds. Cabin accommodations range from rustic single-room structures to multi-room cottages with varying amenities and seasonal availability.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At Brighton State Park Campground, campers can enjoy Spectacle Pond. "Great for kids, hiking, biking, kayaking, and canoeing," notes Katy S., highlighting the multiple water activities available directly from camp.
Hiking trails: The region features numerous forest paths with varying difficulty levels. "There are lots more trails to discover just a short drive from the park. We visited just as the foliage season was getting underway, end of September is peak this year," shares a visitor about Brighton State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Listen for loons that inhabit many area lakes. "Love listening to the loons in the morning," mentions Heather O. about her yearly camping trip to Brighton State Park, where these distinctive birds are a highlight for many visitors.
Mountain biking: White Caps Campground offers access to Kingdom Trails network. "Good launching area for MTB... cheaper than a hotel for kingdom trails though and right next to Lake Willoughby," explains Mike M., noting the cost advantage for mountain bikers.
Fishing spots: Many campgrounds provide direct access to lakes and ponds. "The fishing was super slow but still fun," reports a camper at Brighton State Park, demonstrating that even when catches are few, the experience remains enjoyable.
What campers like
Waterfront campsites: Waterside cabins offer direct lake views and access. "We had a site on the B loop... the site was nice with some great rock features, the sites have enough space between them to give privacy," describes Miccal M. about Maidstone State Park.
Lean-to shelters: These three-sided structures provide protection from rain while maintaining an outdoor feel. "We stayed in the Poplar lean-to, which was very private, with a short trail leading down to the lake," explains a camper at Brighton State Park.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and grounds. "Extremely well maintained and updated! Nice sites! Great location! While there is road noise from VT 15 it does calm down at night," reports Lisa D. about Mountain View Campground.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature dedicated swimming spots. "Campsite itself is beautiful... It is on a gorgeous lake to sit by on the beach and watch the stars at night," shares Justina C., highlighting the multi-use nature of waterfront areas.
Remote settings: The Northeast Kingdom offers truly secluded camping experiences. "Very remote. Nearest town about 45 minutes away. Beautiful site- Shadblow. No cell service. Loved it... pretty far away though," Kate S. notes about Maidstone State Park.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is spotty throughout the region. "No cellular with either Verizon or AT&T but there is limited WiFi at check in building," explains Ted D. about Maidstone State Park, emphasizing the digital disconnect most visitors experience.
Variable shower facilities: Most campground showers require quarters. "The showers are very clean and nice, as well as reasonably priced in my opinion," reports a visitor to Brighton State Park about the coin-operated shower system.
Advance reservations essential: Ricker Pond State Park requires early planning. "I've been visiting Ricker Pond for nearly 20 years (except for the years that I don't book enough in advance and aren't able to secure a spot for my desired length of stay)," warns Neena B.
Weather preparation: Temperatures can drop significantly at night even in summer. Bring layers and additional blankets for cabin stays as mountain temperatures often dip below 55°F overnight, particularly in spring and fall.
Firewood regulations: State parks prohibit bringing outside firewood to prevent insect infestation. "Ice and fire wood for sale on site," mentions Julie N. about Brighton State Park, noting on-site purchase options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Moose River Campground offers dedicated play areas. "Nice sites. Friendly staff, Mary is AWESOME! Had site 9 two years in a row. Love it. Right on the river. Clean bathrooms. Not a great place for kids...no pool, arcade, etc.....but perfect for adults," notes Rick C., highlighting the adult-oriented nature of some campgrounds.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide nature programs for children. "When you arrive, you are given a swag bag with printed information about the surrounding area and businesses," a visitor to Moose River Campground explains, showing how some properties facilitate exploration.
Swimming safety: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas. "There's also access to some trails in walking distance or short distance up road. Close to the North Kingdom Bike trails which was beautiful," mentions Julie E. about White Caps Campground, highlighting activity options beyond swimming.
Cabin selection strategy: For families, choose cabins with multiple rooms when possible. The Hiker Hut at Ricker Pond State Park accommodates larger groups with bunk bed configurations, offering more privacy than single-room cabins.
Rainy day planning: Pack indoor activities as mountain weather can change quickly. "The lean-to made our stay much more enjoyable than it would have been otherwise," shares a Brighton State Park visitor about camping during rainy conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Tree Corners Family Campground provides dedicated RV areas. "Massive campground made mostly for those with kids. They have two separate pools and hot tubs for kids and adults. Tons of other activities for kids- splash pad, water slides, playground, basketball court, etc," reports Mallory P.
Hookup availability: Mountain View Campground offers full-service sites. "Our site (#103) was long enough to fit our rig but we had to squeeze the car in front. The site was level and all the hookups were well-placed and worked fine," shares Nancy W.
Road conditions: Many campgrounds are accessed via dirt roads that can become muddy after rain. "The access road into the park is a well-maintained dirt road and about 5 miles long," Miccal M. notes about Maidstone State Park.
Winter storage options: Most campgrounds close completely for winter with no storage options. RVs must be removed by mid-October when most facilities close for the season.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations. "No dump site on property, i was told my only option was to go down the road to Willo Campground and i could dump my tanks there for $30," warns Michelle H. about limitations at White Caps Campground.
