Looking for the perfect glamping experience in Vermont? Glamping offers the perfect opportunity to explore Vermont and stay off the beaten path. You're sure to find the perfect glamping site for your Vermont camping adventure.
$37 - $100 / night
Little River State Park, which is part of Mt. Mansfield State Forest, is home to central Vermont's largest and most popular campground. The campground has 81 tent/RV sites, 20 lean-tos, and five cabins. Restrooms have flush toilets and hot and cold running water, and three of the four restrooms have coin-operated hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available, but there are no hookups. Within the campground, there are swimming beaches, play areas, a boat launch, ball fields, and boat rentals for campers (for day use boat rentals and swimming, see Waterbury Center, State Park). Adjacent to the park are miles of hiking trails for campers and day use visitors that take in the rich cultural and natural history of the area.
Remote camping: The remote campsites can be reserved online or through the Reservation Call Center at 1-888-409-7579 starting May 19. Those not reserved are first come/first served. Information about open campsites may be found at each access area. Simply find a vacant designated campsite, pitch in and the park ranger will come by to get you registered. Campsites may be used by any single party for up to 7 days with no fees. Every remote campsite has a maximum occupancy of 6 people, unless otherwise posted. There are privies at these sites, but there is no potable water. View remote camping page here.
Today, Little River State Park is one of the most popular parks in central Vermont. Waterbury Reservoir is particularly favored for boating with a portion of the reservoir devoted to quieter uses. Angling for bass and trout is as popular here as water-skiing.>
Enjoy swimming beaches, play areas, boat rentals and a launch, and miles of hiking and mountain bike trails in the adjacent Mt. Mansfield State Forest. Self-guided history and nature trails are located close to the camping area.
$19 - $28 / night
This popular state park, located in Vermont, is a narrow passage that leads through the Green Mountains. In 2003, the park was relocated to allow room for expansions, including an updated campground and sites featuring alternative energy. Despite this, great care was taken to relocate and restore the original structures that were built there by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The site originally housed the many young men looking for work during the Depression era, so it was important for their work to be preserved as much as possible.
Visitors report satisfaction with the new renovations, as the new campground has sites that allow for much more room than before, and ample thought was given to the facilities operating on alternative energy. Campers can now enjoy hot showers, firewood and ice for sale, as well as a new location that provides easy access to Bingham Falls.
Before planning a stay at the park, travelers should be aware that most sites in the park are first come first serve, and not easily accessible by vehicle. Because of the limited space and narrow geography, there are only a small number of sites that can accommodate a trailer or RV. Animal lovers are welcome to bring their furry pals for a visit to the park as well.
Day use of the park consists of a variety of recreation and fun. There's a wetlands boardwalk near what's called the Barnes Camp Visitor Center. Bouldering and cave exploring commonly take place here as well, and when the weather allows it, some try their hand at ice climbing. Day use of the park comes with an entrance fee of $4 for adults, $2 for kids 12 and younger, and children ages 0-3 enter the park free of charge.
$20 / night
$19 - $110 / night
Camping is one of the most economical ways for a family to spend vacation time together. With money for leisure travel at a premium this year, you may decide that the best way to spend your vacation is to visit the Shelburne Camping Area. We feature spacious campsites with full electrical, sewer, cable, and water hook-ups for RVs and Travel Trailers as well as wooded sites for Tent Campers. A camp store, restrooms, showers and modem hook-up are also available as well as the Dutch Mill Family Restaurant for those of you who don't wish to "rough it" too much, but still would like to be in the beautiful surroundings.
Legend
Jake from the Dyrt here! The Brook Run Dog Retreat is new to the Dyrt but offer a great glamping facility and is perfect for dog lovers and owners. Check them out and make sure to leave a review on the Dyrt!
Traveler
We stayed in a cabin with our pup. This place was very clean and loaded with amenities: pool, dog park, events, open fields, deer, store, etc. This was glamping with a fire pit 😃 There were plenty of sites for all size RV’s with hook-ups. A town with lots to do and see is nearby including hiking trails.
Guide
Clean, quiet, friendly and full-featured campground in northeastern Vermont
TravelerNice rustic ,small all amenities park.Great place to explore Vermont ,hundreds of things to do and see in the area. Really like this park.
Scout
Our first time in Vermont, we were coming from Montreal, Quebec. And while there are many nice campsites to visit in Quebec... we've done them all, within a 2-hour radius. Well, guess what? Lake Carmi in Franklin (Enosburg?) Vermont, is less than 1 1/2 hours from Montreal! I think it must be the closest campsite to Quebec, in Vermont. The drive there was really pleasant too. It wasn't all highway. It took us mostly through very scenic routes in both Quebec, and Vermont.
After booking, I had read some bad reviews about the place - which gave me second thoughts. About the staff being very unpleasant, etc. Well I'm happy to say, that turned out to be absolutely untrue! To say that Kathy, Daniel and really, the entire staff that we met, was very friendly to us, is an understatement. They literally saved our bacon!
It's a long story, but in short... our car broke down at one point, and we had to get it towed. Our phone wouldn't work, and it was by the good graces of the Lake Carmi rangers and staff, and the use of their wireless, that we were eventually able to return back home to Canada. I don't know what we would have done, if they weren't there to help us! So - big thanks to the amazing staffers at Lake Carmi.
We had reserved a site by the lake, and saw that the campground itself was quite nice. Just acres and acres of lush green forestation. Clean grounds and washrooms. A beautiful sunset over the lake. No electrical 'pollution'. No noise pollution - except for crickets, in the field. Other than the car trouble - quite a pleasant stay! We'll be returning next year.
Guide
It's exactly what you look for in a vacation, peace and tranquility, breath taking views of Vermont with a perfect lake at your feet! We will definitely stay here again our family loved it!
Traveler
We stay every year for the Vermont City Marathon. It is a convenient bike ride down the bike path to the waterside park. Easy access to all of Burlington by bike. Reasonable price for campsites and the sites are large. Staff are always friendly.
Guide
This campground is the number one rated in Vermont for a reason. The staff were wonderful, the sites are pristine and picturesque, the faculties are decorated with wildflowers. We met a number of AT through hikers, who were very willing to share their adventure stories.
RangerPlenty of space between sites. Decent bathroom situation--I've seen better and I've seen worse in Vermont. The (AT&T) cell phone reception was pretty good, but could be slow at times (which could be because of the area or because of the busy fall color season.)
Scout
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. Staff are friendly and respectful of privacy. Great deal on wood.
Traveler
Beautiful campground in south central Vermont. On a lovely emerald green small lake with nice beach. Good for fishing and kayaking. Well kept. Was very quiet when we visited though I suspect it's much busier in mid summer. Near Manchester, which has numerous great restaurants and a fabulous bookstore.
Guide
It's hard sometime to get away from all the people in Vermont but this park is far enough out of the way where you can avoid a majority of the summer tourist. I was able to take advantage of this and go on a relaxing hike my girlfriend and our dog.
Traveler
I have stayed here a couple times and loved it. they sites are nice and private. The views on some of the sites to the lake are beautiful. the grounds and facilities are well kept. and you are close to both Bennington and Wilmington. a great spot to camp at in Southern Vermont!
Guide
This is a pretty small State Park, so it fills up quickly. The sites on the pond are beautiful if you can get one! The campground has a small beach, boat launch and it's right on the Cross Vermont Trail. I stayed in October and it was really quiet and relaxing. There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly.
Guide
What a great little park! apparently this is the first state park in Vermont. Only 8 campsites so try to book early. Nice trails that lead to scenic views of Lake Champlain. Bathrooms and showers were clean. Showers were quarter operated, 50 cents for 5 minutes. Firewood sold on site. Sites are well groomed and have a fire pit and picnic table.
Traveler
Little River State Park is located just outside of Waterbury Vermont so it’s an ideal location for jumping off on other adventures! There are so many great stores and restaurants nearby if you want something else do to! The park is on the shoreline of Waterbury reservoir so there is boating (rentals available) and plenty of fishing. There is also ALOT OF HIKING!
GuideI've found my place of peace and tranquility and it's where I'd like to reside eventually, our stay here was to short for the beauty we found at the park. The lake had to be the most pure and pristine lake in Vermont, the park, trails, lake and community all make this and rememberable trip that'll always have you wanting to come back for more!
RangerThe Green Mountains of Vermont are amazing all year. Check with the local ski resorts for summer activities like gondola rides. The ranger programming was exceptional, as are the views and the nearby areas for hiking and backpacking. Relatively modern campsite but still a simple state park setup with one exception: true to northeast tradition many of the camp sites are lean-to style.
LegendWe brought our friends to this remote park in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. This park offers many outdoor recreational opportunities. We were able rent kayaks and explore the lake. Many looons and other waterfowl were spotted as well. The park also has a nice hiking trail that scales part of the lake. Because it is so remote from civilization we were also able to relax in our spacious and semi secluded sites.
GuideI only got to stay two nights here but it was veey nice. only seven tent sites and three Leanto so pretty secluded. the best part is every night its only a ten minute hike to the summit from where the sites are and you get to watch the sunset over Vermont and lake champlain as the sun falls behind the adirondack mountains, its quite an amazing site. very highly recommended if y oi u want piece and quiet and that mountain feel with a stunning view.
Legend
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.
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.
TravelerWe stayed in Lot 1 of Smugglers Notch ski resort. It's a big gravel parking lot used during the ski season and left virtually abandoned during the summer. Not sure it's technically a campground, but Vermont has liberal dispersed camping rules. No facilities or anything, but we just slept in our car, cooked on our stove, and drove somewhere else in the morning for bathrooms. Met a local who told us about a lake at the top of the slopes. Other than that, never saw anyone else. Apparently bears are nearby but we saw no signs. Second picture is looking up a ski slope a few paces from the lot
GuideWe just finished six nights at Emerald Lake State Park. Camping at Vermont State parks is always top notch. We had a lean-to site and good privacy from the sites around us. There was plenty of room for our tent and screen tent. Everyone was respectful and quiet, even on the weekend when it was busier. Bathrooms were cleaned daily, showers were fine. 50 cents for 5 minutes and then extra time for each additional quarter. Two bars of AT&T. Manchester was an easy 10 minute drive away for provisioning, and we enjoyed a great hike to Lye Brook Falls (the trailhead was around a 20 minute drive). We would definitely come here again.
GuideThis campground is easy to access, though owing to that one can hear traffic on the nearby road. The lake is beautiful, clear and clean, and there is a beach with sand for swimming. We had our trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground. The site was directly on the lake and clean. The folks working check-in were friendly and helpful. The lake is really nice for kayaking or swimming, and has some loons, but when we were there it carried lots of noise from other sites. The place is gorgeous, but a few knocks because of the noise level. I would go back again though!
LegendGeneral: 70 tent/RV sites and 20 lean-to sites plus five cabins divided into two areas on Waterbury Reservoir.
Site Quality: Good separation and decent-sized, wooded sites.
Bathhouse/Shower: Basic but clean
Activities: Boating, swimming, and hiking. Plus a nature center.
We came here to hike the Dalley Loop Trail (which is a great trail full of history), but we wish we had camped here instead of the private campground 45 minutes away where we did stay. The access road is a bit rough but navigable by all vehicles. The park is beautifully maintained and there are many more trails to explore so it is on our list for a return trip to Vermont!
LegendWhen we first heard of the North East Kingdom of Vermont, we had no idea where people were talking about, but something idyllic and natural came to mind. Ricker Pond State Park fits beautifully into this landscape. Getting here isn’t direct or easy, but the reward is worth it. Leave your mobile devices off, because cell towers haven’t quite made it to this quiet corner of the woods.
The pace here is slow, even by campground standards, but this adds to the charm. A wide array of rustic cabins, lean-to shelters, and traditional tent campsites scattered throughout the park along the shores of Ricker Pond. No electrical hookups to be found, so bring your solar panels if you want power. There is a ton of space between sites -- we could barely see our neighbors or hear them.
The staff have gone the extra mile and planted flowers along many of the choicest camping areas. Campsite amenities include a toilet block with pay showers and flush toilets, but no electrical or water hook ups. The water is delicious by the way, so don’t bother with any bottled variety– this is the good stuff.
Paddling out on the lake has to be the best way to enjoy this wonderful area. With boats available for rent, you don’t even need to bring your own. Check out this quiet corner of Vermont and simply forget about it all. The nearby town of Groton, has a gas station with a small grocery store for all the most important staples (marshmallows, chocolate, bread, beer) at least one small restaurant, and the library offers free wifi 24/7 if you really must connect for a few minutes.
TravelerI’ve been visiting Ricker Pond for nearly 20 years (except for the years that I don’t book enough in advance and aren’t able to secure a spot for my desired length of stay). My favorite lean to site is directly on the water, private, and fills up fast. My favorite cabin site, is set back from the water, is private, and also fills fast for the season. I LOVE venturing to Vermont every summer & staying at Ricker. There is an electrical outlet in the basic cabins, quarter-run showers, and an excellent country store/restaurant a few miles away that has anything you may need and might have forgotten. Tents/RV sites are also available. Book in advance for the best availability!
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