Best Cabin Camping near Swanton, VT

Cabin accommodations near Swanton include rustic and modern options at several lakeside state parks. Grand Isle State Park Campground offers cabins with basic amenities and lake views, while Lake Carmi State Park provides two cabins divided between its camping loops. "The cabins were cozy and the campsites are private enough," noted one visitor about their stay at a nearby park. Burton Island State Park features cabin rentals accessible only by boat or ferry, providing a more secluded experience with waterfront locations and basic furnishings.

Rustic and deluxe cabins are both available, depending on the location. Most state park cabins require advance reservations, especially for summer weekends when availability becomes limited. Apple Island Resort and Camp Skyland offer more developed cabin options with additional amenities. Seasonal availability varies by location, with some parks operating from May through October. A camper mentioned, "There are cabins to rent here, but owner said they book up in advance and it's a YOY reservation that previous bookers get first access each year for dates."

Most cabins include beds but require visitors to bring their own linens, towels, and toiletries. Kitchen facilities vary significantly between locations - some provide only outdoor fire rings while others include small refrigerators or microwaves. Campbells Bay Campground maintains clean cabins "very close to the water" according to one review. On-site camp stores at several locations stock basic provisions, firewood, and ice, though bringing essential supplies remains advisable. Keeler's Market in South Hero provides groceries and other necessities for cabin guests staying on the islands.

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Best Cabin Sites Near Swanton, Vermont (21)

    1. Grand Isle State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Grand Isle, VT
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 372-4300

    $6 - $28 / night

    "Really shady and the campsites are private enough. They do really enforce those quiet hours. Also the WiFi only really works near the office and is very spotty so I wouldn’t rely on it."

    "We stayed at a leanto, which have the better views of the lake! These sites are the same price, so it is worth it. The campground has a trail to the shore line, which is nice!"

    2. Lake Carmi State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Franklin, VT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 933-8383

    $29 / night

    "A large wooden picnic table and fire ring complete the site. There are plentiful trees, so each site has at least some shade and some are very shaded."

    "Since this park is close to where we live, it has become our go to for a quick camping fix. Our family has camped here often. Our latest visit to camp was in July of 2021."

    3. Burton Island State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    North Hero, VT
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 524-6353

    "I've been exploring Vermont State Parks since before I could walk, and Burton Island State Park is my all time favorite!"

    "Spacious sites with fire rings. Shade is limited at certain times of the day. Nice hiking trails nearbye."

    4. Campbells Bay Campground

    2 Reviews
    Swanton, VT
    3 miles

    "It had a view of the water yet it's a distance away. We had water and electric and a small dump station. There was a tree in our site which gave us a little shade yet no privacy in-between the sites."

    "It’s always a great time, cabins are clean, neat & very close to the water. Everything is clean, no litter on grounds or in water. Boat access is very easy, docks can be a bit shakey lol."

    5. Apple Island Resort

    12 Reviews
    Grand Isle, VT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 372-3800

    $55 - $105 / night

    "The front sections of the campground are where most of the transient RVs parked(and have the views of the lake) whereas the back section of the campground has a mix of transient RV sites and seasonal park"

    "Visit this campground in the fall and experience quintessential Vermont in all its glory. The campground is nice. The people are friendly."

    6. Champlain Resort Adult Campground

    5 Reviews
    Grand Isle, VT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 372-5938

    "This campground is a gem in the Lakes Region of Northern Vermont. It sits right on Lake Champlain and has the most amazing sunsets."

    "All of the sites are charming in their own right and the access to the lake is wonderful, providing a truly stunning view and wonderful place to cool off."

    7. North Beach Campground

    27 Reviews
    Burlington, VT
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 862-0942

    $37 - $100 / night

    "Spaced out under trees.

    Sites 1 to 16 are close to each other.

    Sites 113 to 119 are bad. Very close to each other. No redeeming qualities."

    "The camp office is small, but has information on area attractions, Ice, and fire wood. The bathhouse/restrooms were well kept during our stay even with the volume of campers at the site."

    8. Smugglers Notch State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Stowe, VT
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 253-4014

    $20 / night

    "The Park, located along scenic Rte108, has about 20 tent sites and 14 lean-to’s well dispersed throughout the grounds."

    "Close to tons of beautiful hikes. As for the campground. It was quiet, comfortable, and kid, as well as pet friendly. Would definitely camp here again."

    9. Sunset Rock RV Park

    Be the first to review!
    North Hero, VT
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 928-3522

    10. Camp Skyland

    3 Reviews
    Burlington, VT
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 372-4200

    $24 - $35 / night

    "The owner (family owned and operated across generations) took my booking via phone and months later, checked us into camp upon arrival."

    "Great tent / RV / cabin site on an island in Lake Champlain. Tent area is a large field with cabins on the rock bluffs and RV row along the road. Staff was very friendly and accommodating."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 21 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Cabin Reviews near Swanton, VT

192 Reviews of 21 Swanton Campgrounds


  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Lake Carmi State Park Campground

    Quiet lakefront camping post Labor Day

    General: Large state park with two loops, both of which are lakefront. A mix of primitive sites (no w/e/s), lean-tos, and two cabins, one in each section. Sites/lean-tos are designated premium (lakefront) or non. There is also an ADA-accessible lean-to. Upon check-in, you are given a gate code to enter. 

    Site Quality: Our site, like all others, was generous in size and a back-in site. Most sites don’t have clearly defined camper pads, and the surface is grass/dirt (or mud if it has rained recently). A large wooden picnic table and fire ring complete the site. There are plentiful trees, so each site has at least some shade and some are very shaded. Lakefront sites have a filtered view of the lake through the trees. 

    Bath/Shower House: The one closest to us was very clean. Three stalls and one shower. Cold water only at both the sinks and the shower (at least I didn’t get any hot water). The showers do take quarters and although you get five minutes for each quarter (up to 15 quarters, although I can’t imagine taking that long of a shower), it was quite possibly the wimpiest shower I’ve experienced in quite some time. But, after I finished, I saw my quarter had been returned. The toilet paper was so thin, it was nearly transparent! 

    Activities: Although swimming is allowed, the “beaches” are very small and there was a bacteria warning in place when we were there advising against swimming. There are two boat launch areas, one in each loop. Great for kayaks, and canoes, and we saw what looked like a fishing boat. There was one very annoying motorboat revving its engine while doing circles in the lake. The day-use area has a small, dated playground, fire pit, horseshoe pit, and volleyball net. There is a short nature trail and one other small walking trail. Nearby is access to the Missisquoi Rail Trail. 

    A surprise was a family of ducks who visited our site when I was outside reading! Our stay was very quiet during the week after Labor Day, but I imagine the vibe is quite different during summer weekends, especially given the sign in the restroom stating that quiet hours are strictly enforced. We were annoyed by one loud boat so I can’t imagine what it would be like if the lake was filled with boaters. This is why we prefer shoulder-season camping!

  • Rachel P.
    Oct. 16, 2018

    Smugglers Notch State Park Campground

    Smugglers Notch State Park

    I’d say this was one of Vermont’s best kept secrets, except I don’t think it’s exactly a secret. Even in October, the Park seemed full with visitors and Stowe was hopping! Leaf peepers were in full force and the grounds were absolutely spectacular- I really picked the perfect time of year to go. Nights got pretty brisk, but the foliage was breathtaking.

    The Park, located along scenic Rte108, has about 20 tent sites and 14 lean-to’s well dispersed throughout the grounds. A couple spots were drive-in sites, accessible to those with disabilities; most had small pathways and/or stairwells leading to their platforms. There was not a bad site within the entire vicinity. All were fully shaded and extremely private. Although, I’d be curious about checking out Sites 1 or 16 next time around!

    Bathrooms were clean and the main office sold firewood at the entrance. Facilities are also pet friendly. Plus, there are so many hiking trails and recreational opportunities in and around the Park-from Stowe Mountain Resort to the quaint shops in town and local craft breweries. And even with the Park seeming “full”, the grounds were perfectly quiet, without the incessant sound of generators you find at larger state parks.

    Without a doubt, Smugglers Notch State Park is a favorite of mine!

  • T
    Sep. 1, 2018

    Little River State Park Campground

    One super state park campground for the entire family

    This is the only campground in the area I will stay at. It has so many benefits, I may not be able to do it justice in this review. The sites are huge. We fit two camper vans, two tents and put up a 20x20 rain tarp on Site 5. The site was freshly raked when we got there, and the leftover wood was stacked next to the fire pit. Picnic table easily seats 8. Lots of bathrooms around the park, each with showers. Firewood and Ice, along with some necessities are available at the office. Cell phone service is touchy depending on where you are in the park. There is fresh water available. Lots of activities to do here, from the Nature Center and hiking trails to seriously wicked mountain biking trails designed by Mr. Knight overlooking the reservoir where boating of all kinds is allowed. And the fishing in the river below is quite stellar. There's even an abandoned town up on top of the mountain for younto check out.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2019

    AuSable Chasm Campground

    Closest campground to Ausable Chasm

    We travel in a 17-foot camper van, but no one ever believes that we are no bigger than a standard cargo van and can easily fit in a regular size parking space. Upon arrival at Ausable Chasm, we were told we had to take a site with water and electric since we had a camper van. These sites were $13 more per night and we really did not need the hookups. We were finally able to convince the staff that we could take a standard tent site, which was more than big enough. 

    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. 

    Bathrooms and shower rooms are individual rooms, but the doors are not labeled so it’s a game of “what’s behind door number 1?”  There was no light in the shower room that I looked at so a night shower would be out of the question. The bathrooms were clean and had soap, paper towels, a garbage receptacle, and a mirror in each. 

    Lots of ant hills throughout the campground so be cautious where you set up a tent. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring. Large and nice-looking playground, pool, volleyball net, disc golf and mountain biking/hiking trails. It also looked like there were cross country ski trails but not sure if the campground or cabins would be open in the winter. 

    Biggest advantage is that Ausable Chasm(a separate business) is directly across the street from the campground and it is very close to the ferry that will take you to Burlington, VT, our next destination.

  • Beth R.
    Jun. 27, 2024

    Smugglers Notch State Park Campground

    Newly Developed … Work in Progress

    Pros: Full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP) 1.7 mile from #7 Ranked World's Best Disc Golf Course: Fox Run Meadows New fire ring New picnic table Gorgeous Mountain View

    Cons: Grass site No amenities No Wi-Fi Soft ground, sinked during setup

  • Cedar O.
    Aug. 5, 2021

    Grand Isle State Park Campground

    Just Marvelous

    Stayed in Balsam leanto. Really shady and the campsites are private enough. They do really enforce those quiet hours. Also the WiFi only really works near the office and is very spotty so I wouldn’t rely on it.

  • Fransheska A.
    Aug. 11, 2021

    Smugglers Notch State Park Campground

    Great family friendly campground

    We stayed last year during the fall and the views were breathtaking. Close to tons of beautiful hikes. As for the campground. It was quiet, comfortable, and kid, as well as pet friendly. Would definitely camp here again. The staff was friendly and the bathroom facilities were kept nice and clean.

  • Tara S.
    Oct. 18, 2017

    Burton Island State Park Campground

    10 Reasons to Love Burton Island State Park

    I've been exploring Vermont State Parks since before I could walk, and Burton Island State Park is my all time favorite! There's a million reasons to love camping here, and if you are visiting Vermont in the summer, I think it's one of those must-visit destinations. Here's why it's my favorite place to camp in the whole state.

    1. It's like going to to a tropical island without leaving Vermont.
    2. There are no cars on the island. You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans.
    3. 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.
    4. There's a camping bistro where you can buy pancakes, coffee, local beer, and fine wines
    5. Sunsets are magical - if you can, get a lean-to right on the water. If not, hike to the western shore for the main event.
    6. You can bring your dog - there's even an off-leash dog beach!
    7. You can stay in a cabin! If you don't want to rough it, you don't have to.
    8. There are lots of trails to explore, and almost all of them lead to the water where you can cool off in Lake Champlain.
    9. There are kayaks and canoes to rent.
    10. There's a marina (with WiFi), and you can rent slips for the night.

    Waterfront sites book very quickly (like 11 months in advance), but if you don't mind being farther from the main campground and running water, you can almost always rent one of the four primitive sites, which are secluded and waterfront. You can paddle out to Burton Island on your own from Kamp Killcare State Park, where you'll leave your car. It's a very short paddle and shouldn't take more than 10 minutes. The passenger ferry runs throughout the day, if you don't have a boat of your own.

    Once you're on the 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. We have stayed in a few different sites over the years -- we aren't picky, because we usually get one of the last sites available. We've never been disappointed a site. They're all great, and within easy walking distance of the beach.

  • Fransheska A.
    Oct. 7, 2019

    Smugglers Notch State Park Campground

    Clean, quiet, and private site

    Smugglers notch was not only beautiful but the campground was one of the best ones I’ve stayed at. We stayed in cherry (leanto) site which was fairly private and big enough for us to set up our 8 person tent. They were pet friendly which is always a plus. The bathrooms were the cleanest ones yet. The staff was friendly and helpful. They make nightly rounds to check on the campers and make sure no one has any questions or concerns. There were trails leading from campgrounds and beautiful views. We had an unforgettable weekend. Would 100% camp there again in the future!


Guide to Swanton

Cabin rental options near Swanton, Vermont offer access to the Champlain Islands region with water temperatures averaging 70°F during summer months. The area features numerous cabin accommodations along Lake Champlain, where the shoreline varies from rocky outcroppings to small pebble beaches. Several campgrounds remain open from mid-May through mid-October, with extended availability at some private facilities.

What to do

Water activities on Lake Champlain: Grand Isle State Park provides boat access with docks for various watercraft. "We biked to this park from Burlington via the Island Line Trail. It was a super trip. The lakeside lean-to was awesome," notes one visitor to Grand Isle State Park Campground.

Biking the Island Line Trail: This trail connects multiple island locations and continues to Burlington. "You can bike directly from here all the way to Burlington, without ever getting back in your car! Take the bike ferry across a small section of Lake Champlain and keep on riding," mentions a Grand Isle State Park camper.

Visit local wineries and breweries: South Hero hosts several tasting opportunities. A visitor to Champlain Resort Adult Campground notes, "Just down the road is a nice local brewery and there are a few places to eat in South Hero. Definitely recommend going to Burlington which has nice shopping and restaurants."

What campers like

Ferry access to islands: Burton Island requires boat transportation, creating a more secluded environment. "No power hookups and no water hookup at site; ferry takes you to the island; for a few, your equipment will be delivered to your campsite; restaurant and store on site; wood for sale," explains a visitor to Burton Island State Park Campground.

Lakefront cabin views: Many cabins offer water views with varying proximity to the shore. At Campbells Bay Campground, "cabins are clean, neat & very close to the water. Everything is clean, no litter on grounds or in water. Boat access is very easy."

Adult-only options: For those seeking quieter environments, some campgrounds cater exclusively to adults. "It is child free which means it is super quiet and so relaxed. We spent about 11 days in absolute paradise at this campground," reports a Champlain Resort camper.

What you should know

Seasonal algae concerns: Water quality varies throughout the season. One Lake Carmi visitor mentioned, "the lake had green algae and we spotted several dead fish floating. It made me nervous about the water."

Rocky shorelines: Swimming areas often feature rocky rather than sandy beaches. A Lake Carmi State Park Campground review notes, "the beaches were rocky and almost a mud/sand mix."

Advance reservations essential: Most cabin accommodations book quickly, especially waterfront locations. A Camp Skyland visitor reports, "There are cabins to rent here, but owner said they book up in advance and it's a YOY reservation that previous bookers get first access each year for dates."

Tips for camping with families

Access to nature programs: Some parks offer educational activities. "It was a quiet, family friendly campground with a cute little beach and nature center with youth programs," describes a Grand Isle State Park camper.

Check bathroom facilities: Quality varies between campgrounds. "The bathrooms were pretty good and cleaned often. VT state does a great job of keeping the campground very clean," notes a Lake Carmi visitor.

Pet policies vary: While many camping cabins near Swanton welcome dogs, restrictions apply in certain areas. At Apple Island Resort, one camper found, "There is a short trail on the property which leads to a large open grassy area with a great view of the lake and area where we threw a ball for our dog."

Tips from RVers

Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete services for RVs. An Apple Island Resort visitor shares, "The hook-ups at our site were well-placed but the sewer pipe was high off the ground which did not let it drain even with a 'slinky.'"

Site layout considerations: Many lakefront sites require specific positioning. "Most waterfront sites are nose-in and suited well for motorhomes. Sometimes they would park a towable next to them and if they backed in there would be a shared patio."

Seasonal considerations: Off-season camping provides quieter experiences. One camper notes, "Our stay was very quiet during the week after Labor Day, but I imagine the vibe is quite different during summer weekends, especially given the sign in the restroom stating that quiet hours are strictly enforced."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Swanton, VT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Swanton, VT is Grand Isle State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 28 reviews.

What is the best site to find cabin camping near Swanton, VT?

TheDyrt.com has all 21 cabin camping locations near Swanton, VT, with real photos and reviews from campers.