Waterbury, Vermont sits at 427 feet of elevation within the Green Mountain region, with typical summer temperatures ranging from 50-80°F. The camping season generally runs from mid-May through mid-October, though some remote sites offer winter accessibility. Many campgrounds near Waterbury require advance planning due to limited availability during peak foliage season in late September and early October.
What to do
Explore historical ruins: Little River State Park Campground offers unique hiking opportunities to abandoned settlements. "We visited here with our 5 kiddos for 2 nights late July 2016. 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," shares Rita M.
Paddle the reservoir: Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites provides boat-in camping experiences for paddlers. "These remote sites are so peaceful. Be sure to launch from cotton brook road if your site r11-27. It was about 30 minutes from the cotton brook launch to the site and was much more doable for all the trips we took bringing our gear in," advises Julia S.
Off-season adventures: Smugglers Notch State Park Campground transforms during winter months. "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," explains Ed M.
What campers like
Private campsites: Underhill State Park Campground sites offer more seclusion than many camping sites near Waterbury, Vermont. "This is the best of car camping - you get the feel of really being out in the woods, with your car a short distance away. They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff, and the campsites are super clean and well organized," notes Ali T.
Proximity to attractions: Gold Brook Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring the region. "Super conveniently located to all of the hiking and biking Stowe has to offer. The hosts are super friendly and the primitive camp sites are spacious and located along a quaint brook and sprawling meadow," shares Shannon L.
Waterfront access: Many campers value sites with direct lake or river frontage. "There are many beautiful backcountry campsites right on the water only accessible via the water. Great local overnight spot with flat tenting, privies, and picnic tables," remarks Caitlin M. about Little River State Park.
What you should know
Varied amenities: Toilet facilities range from full restrooms to composting units. "The bathroom is a composting toilet that you'll share with fishing spiders the size of your hand, slam the lid before use!" warns Julia S. about Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites.
Reservation policies: Most campgrounds require advance booking with non-refundable deposits. Gold Brook Campground has a strict cancellation policy that some campers find challenging.
Site access challenges: Austin Brook offers dispersed camping options but requires preparation. "There are a handful of sites down Austin Brook road, I had trouble finding a level spot. Minimal ATT reception but overall pretty area," notes Tim M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Elmore State Park Campground provides kid-friendly amenities beyond hiking. "A beautiful campground just a short walk to the lake. The Elmore Store just down the road has everything you need including AMAZING pizza (Fire Tower) and a great deli. Fun summer activities happen in Elmore and neighboring towns," recommends Shelley T.
Educational opportunities: Smugglers Notch State Park offers ranger-led programs for children. "The ranger programming was exceptional, as are the views and the nearby areas for hiking and backpacking," says Harry H.
Protected swimming areas: North Beach Campground provides supervised water activities. "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)," advises Meag F.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Austin Brook dispersed camping requires preparation for uneven terrain. "I didn't get the chance to camp here, it was full when I drove through looking for a place. Great location, easy access, on a nice brook. Fire ring only, no facilities and minimal parking," shares Miccal M.
Generator restrictions: Little River State Park limits generator usage to specific hours. "Little river st park wide flat camp sites no hookups limited gen. Use hours 8am/10am and 4pm/6pm. Rough road coming to campground. Very quite. Site could hold big rig we have a 28ft 5th wheel plenty of room for 35/40," notes Nicholas G.
Easy-access options: North Beach Campground provides full hookups with convenient location. "We loved being able to walk down to the beach, as well as having full hookups. You can purchase firewood at the office, and there are also propane options," shares Laura L.
