Camping cabins near Underhill Center, Vermont offer shelter from the area's cold evenings, where temperatures can drop into the 30s even during summer months due to the Green Mountains' elevation. Most cabins stand between 800-1500 feet above sea level, placing them close to trailheads leading to Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak at 4,395 feet. Coin-operated showers are standard at most facilities, typically costing 25-50 cents for a 5-minute hot water cycle.
What to do
Hiking from cabin sites: At Smugglers Notch State Park Campground, cabins provide direct access to Mount Mansfield's trail system. "They don't have all the usual amenities its more of a primitive set up. has great clean sites with multiple ways to access mount mansfields trail system which is the highest mountain in the state of Vermont," notes Michael V. Several cabin sites are positioned within a half-mile of major trailheads.
Winter cabin camping: Smugglers Notch cabins can be accessed during winter months for backcountry skiing. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March of 2019. 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," reports Ed M. Winter visitors must pack out all waste as facilities remain closed.
River adventures: Cabins at Mountain View Campground sit near the Lamoille River with water access. "Nice family campground nestled in between route 15 and the lamoille River. Great car accessible tent sites right on the water and plenty of amenities that the kids will love," says Jason D. The campground rents tubes and kayaks for floating sections of the river between designated access points.
What campers like
Lean-to style cabins: Vermont state parks feature three-walled shelter designs rather than fully enclosed cabins. "True to northeast tradition many of the camp sites are lean-to style," explains Harry H. about Smugglers Notch. These structures typically include wooden sleeping platforms raised 8-10 inches off the ground and roof coverage.
Proximity to water activities: At Little River State Park Campground, cabins offer access to water recreation. "The reservoir is a fun place to explore via kayak and cannoe as well as by motorboat! We tend to hang at the site more than the beaches as the beaches are very small and full of children," notes Hannah H. The reservoir spans approximately 850 acres.
Improved accessibility: Many Vermont parks now offer accessible cabins. "We actually stayed in an ADA site (it was the only one left). It was REALLY nice. Gravel drive all the way in to a nicely built 3 walled platform with a roof," shares Sarah C. about their experience at Grand Isle State Park Campground. These sites typically include wider doorways and wheelchair-friendly approaches.
What you should know
Seasonal opening dates: Most cabin facilities near Underhill Center operate from mid-May through mid-October. Smugglers Notch cabins are available "May 19 to October 15" while Little River stays open slightly longer until "October 22." Winter access to Smugglers Notch requires special arrangements.
Booking timeline: "Reserve early, as this place doesn't have a ton of sites and it folds up quickly!" advises Ben C. about Smugglers Notch. During peak season, especially around foliage time (late September to mid-October), cabin sites can book 6-9 months in advance.
Screening and netting: At Brewster River Campground, "The lean-to has 3 walls and netting on the fourth. Inside there are two queen sized platforms (we put an air mattress down) and it is right on the river," explains Kiarra M. Most lean-to structures feature either partial screening or no screening at all, requiring campers to bring insect protection.
Tips for camping with families
Local learning opportunities: Cabins provide a base for exploring historical sites. "The hiking trails are really good--the actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," says Rita M. about Little River State Park. The area contains remnants of an abandoned 19th-century hill farm community with over 50 cellar holes.
Pack extra layers: The temperature can fluctuate 30-40 degrees between day and night. "Stayed here midweek without reservation after vehicle issues forced a stop by the nearby shops in Barre/Berlin. Very peaceful with ample hammock spots. They sell wood stacked in cribs, wish I'd planned for that as I ended up using my only towel to haul it," notes reviewer B at Little River, highlighting the importance of bringing proper clothing and supplies.
Kid-friendly amenities: North Beach Campground cabins provide family conveniences. "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 (claim them early if you want them)," mentions Meag F. The children's play area includes safety-rated equipment suitable for ages 5-12.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: For RVers seeking more amenities than state park cabins provide, Apple Island Resort offers full hookups near cabin areas. "Large open sites with view of lake. Friendly staff. Camp store food is great and delivery to site is helpful after a long day of travel," notes Kit. The resort operates from May 1 to October 20, with cabin and RV options available.
Winter considerations: RVers should note most cabin areas close to motorized vehicles during winter. "No facilities off season…Carry out all trash/waste. Right in the middle of great nordic and alpine backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. Silent and starry nights, just make sure you have the gear/experience and a warm sleeping bag," warns Ed M. about Smugglers Notch. Winter visitors must park in designated lots and transport gear on sleds.
Proximity to services: When cabin facilities lack services, nearby towns offer options. "Good flat sites. A little small but comfortable. Rangers are very helpful. Wood is a little hard to gather, but rangers have plenty for sale," notes Matthew H. about Smugglers Notch. Most campgrounds are within a 15-30 minute drive of general stores or service stations.
