Cabins near Warren, Vermont offer rustic wilderness access in the Green Mountain National Forest at elevations ranging from 500 to 4,000 feet. Winter cabin rentals typically maintain availability from November through April with temperatures often dropping below 10°F. State park cabin facilities generally provide wooden platforms for sleeping bags rather than traditional mattresses and require visitors to bring their own lighting solutions.
What to do
Hiking trails from cabin sites: At Little River State Park Campground, visitors can access hiking paths directly from their cabins. As camper Rita M. notes, "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."
Water activities on reservoir: Cabin guests staying at Little River can enjoy multiple water recreation options. "Great campground for hanging out and a place to bring your boat. The reservoir is a fun place to explore via kayak and canoe as well as by motorboat!" shared Hannah H.
Winter backcountry experiences: For cold-weather adventurers, Smugglers Notch State Park Campground offers off-season cabin access. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March. Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve. Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed and the area is not plowed," reports Ed M.
What campers like
Lake access from cabins: Visitors appreciate water proximity at Branbury State Park Campground. One camper shared, "Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night! A five minute hike from the sites leads to a small river and swimming hole."
Private cabin settings: Many cabins provide secluded accommodations. At Chittenden Brook Campground, camper Kara D. observed, "I went during the week and had the place to myself apart from a neighbor a few sites down who wasn't visible. Nice hiking trails close to Long Trail, really tucked away a few miles off 73."
Accessible wilderness feel: Cabins balance wilderness immersion with practicality. "Clean, quiet campground that feels like wilderness, but is accessible!" noted Brenna T. about Little River State Park's cabins, while another visitor highlighted, "Some of the best sites are up on a bluff with views over the lake towards sunrise."
What you should know
Bear safety measures required: Wildlife concerns affect cabin stays in the region. At Branbury State Park, campers are advised, "Just make sure you put your food and trash away—there are black bears in the area!" At Chittenden Brook Campground, visitors should "take bear food precautions regardless."
Winter cabin access limitations: Off-season cabin rentals have specific access requirements. At Smugglers Notch, winter cabin users should note "no facilities off season...Carry out all trash/waste. Silent and starry nights, just make sure you have the gear/experience and a warm sleeping bag."
Cabin location variations: At Silver Lake Campground, cabin access requires preparation. Kyle B. advises, "It's a pack in pack out campground so only pack what you truly need for camping. If you need to bring more there is an access road that you hike in on for easy transportation of your gear. It's downhill on the way to the site and work on the way back to your car."
Tips for camping with families
Hidden historical features: Family-friendly cabin sites often include educational elements. At Little River, families appreciate that "there are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover." The park also provides "a small playground" that keeps younger children entertained.
Beach access options: Button Bay State Park Campground offers specific family amenities near their cabins. "This is a good campground for families that are not too rowdy. There is a pool for swimming, paved roads are good for bikes & scooters, pavilion for activities, lake for swimming & fishing and hiking trails," notes Lacy C.
Private cabin options: At Lazy Lions Campground, adults-only cabin policies provide quieter options. A reviewer noted the campground "feels more like a place for retirees than active campers," while another mentioned, "the site was level and along with a picnic table, they also provide two Adirondack chairs and a fire ring."
Tips from RVers
Limited cabin hookup considerations: Cabins with electrical access are less common. At Lazy Lions, campers reported electrical hookups with separate metering and "full hook-up, pull-thru corner space" options for those bringing RVs alongside cabin rentals.
Winter storage limitations: Most cabins lack storage for large equipment. At Smugglers Notch, winter visitors noted, "Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed and the area is not plowed," requiring careful planning for gear transportation.
Off-season discounts: Some cabin locations offer significant seasonal pricing adjustments. One visitor to Shelburne Camping Area noted, "In October, you get a second night free!" which applies to their cabin options as well as traditional sites.
