Best Campgrounds near Winooski, VT
Campgrounds near Winooski, Vermont cluster along Lake Champlain's shoreline with several developed options within a 15-mile radius. North Beach Campground in Burlington provides direct lake access with tent, RV, and cabin accommodations just 3 miles southwest of Winooski. Other nearby options include Mallets Bay Campground and Lone Pine Campsites in Colchester, both offering waterfront settings with various amenities. The region includes a mix of municipal, state park, and private campgrounds with full-hookup RV sites and primitive tent camping areas.
Most campgrounds in the Winooski area operate seasonally from May through mid-October due to Vermont's northern climate. Reservations become essential during summer months, particularly for waterfront sites and holiday weekends. Grand Isle State Park and Mount Philo State Park have shorter seasons, generally opening Memorial Day weekend and closing by mid-October. Winter camping options are limited, with Shelburne Camping Area being one of the few year-round facilities in the region. Developed campgrounds typically provide water, electric hookups, restrooms and shower facilities. A visitor commented, "Sites have 30 amp electric and water but might need a longish cord or hose. Clean easy to use dump with water."
Campers report high satisfaction with sites that offer lake access and proximity to Burlington's amenities. Many campgrounds connect to the Island Line Trail (formerly Burlington Bike Path), allowing car-free exploration of the area. The location strikes a balance between natural settings and urban convenience, though this comes with trade-offs. Several visitors noted that sites at North Beach and other popular campgrounds lack privacy and can be crowded during peak season. According to one camper, "Sites are extremely close together," while another observed that North Beach Campground provides "direct access to the bike/walking path to the city, as well as a city bus stop at the top of the road." The developed campgrounds in the area generally prioritize amenities and location over wilderness experience, making them suited for travelers seeking both outdoor recreation and access to urban attractions.
