Best Budget-Friendly RV Campgrounds in Vermont
Vermont's stunning Green Mountains, pristine lakes, and charming small towns make it a perfect RV destination. But camping in the Green Mountain State doesn't have to drain your wallet. We've researched and compiled this guide to the best budget-friendly RV campgrounds in Vermont, all offering nightly rates under $50. From lakeside spots to mountain retreats, these affordable campgrounds provide excellent value without sacrificing the natural beauty and outdoor experiences that make Vermont special.
Vermont RV Campground Map
The map below shows the locations of our recommended budget-friendly RV campgrounds across Vermont. From the shores of Lake Champlain to the heart of the Green Mountains, these affordable options are scattered throughout the state, making it easy to find budget camping near your desired destinations.
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Map of budget-friendly RV campgrounds across Vermont
1. Brewster River Campground
Location: Jeffersonville, Vermont
Nightly Rate: Starting at $34
Amenities: Water hookups, bathrooms, showers, internet access, waterfront sites
Nestled along the scenic Brewster River in the Green Mountains, this campground offers a tranquil setting that's impossible to capture in photos. The waterfall and swimming hole create a perfect natural retreat, while the peaceful flow of the river provides a soothing backdrop for your camping experience. Sites are well-spaced for privacy, and the campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding mountains.
"Very nice spot with a relaxing stream flowing through. Most of the sites are on the stream and well spaced for privacy. Definitely recommended."
Why You'll Love Brewster River Campground
- Riverside sites with the soothing sounds of flowing water
- Natural swimming hole perfect for cooling off on hot summer days
- Proximity to Smugglers' Notch State Park and hiking trails
- Affordable rates starting at just $34 per night
- Peaceful atmosphere ideal for connecting with nature
2. Tree Farm Campground
Location: Springfield, Vermont
Nightly Rate: $26-$36
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, cable TV, hot showers, firewood delivery, trash and recycling pickup, hiking trails, dog park
Tree Farm Campground offers 140 acres of tall white pines and abundant wildlife, creating a secluded feel while still being close to town amenities. Operating since 1974 and family-owned since 2015, this well-maintained campground provides spacious, wooded sites that are level and comfortable for RVs of various sizes.
"Spacious wooded sites. Super helpful hosts really know the area. Loved walking into Muckross State Park from the campground. Great hiking & close to more tourist destinations as well. We will return!"
Why You'll Love Tree Farm Campground
- Spacious, private sites under tall pine trees
- Excellent Wi-Fi and cable TV included in the affordable rate
- Direct access to hiking trails in Muckross State Park
- Dog-friendly with a dedicated dog park area
- Helpful owners who provide local recommendations
3. Sunnybrook Farm
Location: South Royalton, Vermont
Nightly Rate: $20
Amenities: Electric hookups (30 AMP), potable water, campfires allowed, pet-friendly
One of the oldest properties in town, the Day Homestead (as it's known) dates back hundreds of years, with the main house built in 1810. This historic Vermont trout farm offers a quiet, authentic Vermont experience at an incredibly affordable price. The site sits near a post and beam "run in" horse barn with flat, easy road access and 30 AMP electric service.
Why You'll Love Sunnybrook Farm
- Historic Vermont farm setting with beautiful views
- Extremely budget-friendly at just $20 per night
- Small, quiet atmosphere with just one RV site
- Owners produce and sell Vermont maple syrup and fresh produce
- Close to Interstate 89 for easy access
4. Fair Valley Camping
Location: Tunbridge, Vermont
Nightly Rate: $45
Amenities: Electric hookups, water, restrooms, showers, pet-friendly
Camp on the historic grounds of the Tunbridge World's Fair at Fair Valley Camping. This unique location offers multiple spaces for all sizes of RVs with electrical hookups and water. The beautiful site features the First Branch of the White River passing through and two covered bridges within walking distance. There's even a half-mile dirt track perfect for morning runs or bike rides.
Why You'll Love Fair Valley Camping
- Historic fairground setting with unique atmosphere
- Beautiful river views and covered bridges
- Spacious sites that can accommodate any size RV
- Central Vermont location perfect for exploring the region
- Walking distance to Tunbridge's historic covered bridges
5. Between The Brooks Farm
Location: Stockbridge, Vermont
Nightly Rate: $45
Amenities: Electric hookups, potable water, toilets, pet-friendly, WiFi
Between The Brooks Farm offers simple, easy field and stream camping in a beautiful Vermont setting. Located on VASA trails with access to the Appalachian Trail, this campground provides beautiful views and abundant wildlife. The property features two camping sites with power and water available, making it perfect for RVers seeking a peaceful natural setting.
Why You'll Love Between The Brooks Farm
- Direct access to VASA trails and the Appalachian Trail
- Beautiful mountain views and peaceful countryside setting
- Pet-friendly policy perfect for traveling with dogs
- On-site WiFi keeps you connected despite the rural location
- Small, intimate setting with just two camping sites
6. Out by the Inn
Location: Ripton, Vermont
Nightly Rate: $30
Amenities: Potable water, toilets, pet-friendly, access to inn amenities
Set on a six-acre property featuring three acres of mature maple trees and a historic 200-year-old home that now operates as an inn, Out by the Inn offers a unique camping experience. Campers are welcome to stop by the inn in the morning for a 50-cent cup of fresh, hot coffee or the inn's legendary breakfast for $15/person. Located seven miles from Middlebury, the site offers both a quiet retreat and easy access to town amenities.
"The parking lot at the inn was a perfect spot for our camper and a place to rest our heads! It was wonderful! Elizabeth was beyond friendly and accommodating- I would highly recommend staying here to others."
Why You'll Love Out by the Inn
- Historic setting with beautiful mature maple trees
- Access to inn amenities including coffee and breakfast options
- Proximity to the Green Mountain National Forest trail system
- Rich literary history—Robert Frost spent 39 summers nearby
- Excellent value at just $30 per night
Special Offer: Mention code "HIPCAMP" when booking to receive 15% off a stay inside the inn if camping isn't available!
7. Little Sister's Campsite
Location: Newport, Vermont
Nightly Rate: $30
Amenities: Potable water, toilets, pet-friendly, firewood included
As private as private gets but only 6 miles from Newport, Little Sister's Campsite offers a secluded retreat with a creek and a one-acre pond (20 feet deep). The property features mixed hard and softwood trees, including magnificent old growth trees reaching 100 feet tall. A good road makes the site accessible for most vehicles, though large trailers may find access challenging.
Why You'll Love Little Sister's Campsite
- Extremely private setting perfect for a true wilderness experience
- On-site pond and creek for fishing and water activities
- Free firewood included with your stay
- Wildlife viewing opportunities (moose, deer, and other critters)
- Access to nearby Brownington Pond (200+ acres) for swimming and boating
8. Onion River Campground
Location: Plainfield, Vermont
Nightly Rate: $24-$30
Amenities: 30/50 AMP electric hookups, water hookups, bathrooms, showers, fire pits
Situated next to the Winooski River in the small village of Plainfield (population about 1,000), Onion River Campground offers a peaceful atmosphere typical of many New England hamlets. With 26 RV sites, this family-friendly campground provides walking trails, picnic tables, and a playground for children. Leashed pets are welcome, making it perfect for the whole family.
"Onion River has a lot going for it. It's out in the middle of nowhere, there's an amazing converted train track trail through a beautiful forest, and a river runs right through it."
Why You'll Love Onion River Campground
- Riverside location with peaceful water views
- Access to converted train track trail through beautiful forest
- Every RV site provides electric hookups (30 or 50 amps)
- Five sites offer full hookups with sewer connections
- Small, quiet atmosphere perfect for relaxation
Note: The bridge to the campground has a weight limit of 24,000 pounds. Please consider this when planning your visit with larger RVs.
Money-Saving Tips for RV Camping in Vermont
Best Seasons for Discounts
Vermont's camping season typically runs from May through October, with peak rates during summer and fall foliage season (late September to mid-October). For the best rates:
- Camp during "shoulder seasons" (early May to mid-June or after mid-October)
- Book midweek stays instead of weekends for lower rates
- Look for early season specials in May when campgrounds first open
- Consider longer stays—many campgrounds offer weekly rates that save 10-20%
Free Camping Alternatives
While Vermont has limited free camping options, these alternatives can help you save:
- Green Mountain National Forest allows dispersed camping in designated areas
- Some Walmart locations in Vermont permit overnight parking (always ask manager first)
- Harvest Hosts members can stay at Vermont farms, wineries, and breweries
- Vermont state forests sometimes offer primitive camping at minimal cost
More Ways to Save on Vermont RV Camping
Campground Memberships
- Good Sam Club offers 10% discounts at participating campgrounds
- Passport America provides 50% off at select Vermont campgrounds
- KOA Value Kard Rewards saves 10% on KOA stays
Amenity Strategies
- Book partial hookup sites instead of full hookups
- Use campground showers instead of your RV to conserve water and propane
- Fill water tanks at campgrounds before heading to cheaper primitive sites
Booking Tips
- Book directly with campgrounds to avoid third-party fees
- Ask about unadvertised discounts (military, senior, extended stay)
- Join campground email lists for special promotions
Must-Visit Attractions Near Budget-Friendly Campgrounds
Lake Champlain
Vermont's largest lake offers swimming, boating, fishing, and spectacular mountain views. Several of our budget-friendly campgrounds are within a short drive of Lake Champlain's 120-mile shoreline. Don't miss the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum to learn about the lake's rich history.
Nearby Campgrounds: Onion River, Little Sister's Campsite
Green Mountain National Forest
Spanning more than 400,000 acres, this forest offers endless outdoor recreation opportunities including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Long Trail and portions of the Appalachian Trail run through the forest, providing excellent day hiking options.
Nearby Campgrounds: Between The Brooks Farm, Out by the Inn, Tree Farm Campground
Quechee Gorge
Known as "Vermont's Little Grand Canyon," this 165-foot deep gorge was carved by glacial activity and the Ottauquechee River. Visitors can view the gorge from the Route 4 bridge or hike down to the river below. The surrounding Quechee State Park offers additional hiking trails and picnic areas.
Nearby Campgrounds: Fair Valley Camping, Tree Farm Campground
Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour
Vermont's most famous ice cream makers offer a fun and delicious factory tour in Waterbury. Learn how their iconic flavors are made, sample the flavor of the day, and visit the Flavor Graveyard where retired flavors are memorialized. An affordable activity at just $5 per person (children under 12 free).
Nearby Campgrounds: Brewster River Campground, Onion River Campground
Vermont Covered Bridges
Vermont is home to more than 100 covered bridges, the highest concentration per square mile in the U.S. Many of our budget-friendly campgrounds are located near these historic structures. Don't miss the two covered bridges within walking distance of Fair Valley Camping in Tunbridge.
Nearby Campgrounds: Fair Valley Camping, Sunnybrook Farm, Between The Brooks Farm
Frequently Asked Questions About Budget RV Camping in Vermont
When is the best time to visit Vermont for RV camping?
The camping season in Vermont typically runs from May through October. For budget travelers, the best times to visit are during the "shoulder seasons" of early May to mid-June or after mid-October when rates are lower and campgrounds less crowded. However, if you want to experience Vermont's famous fall foliage, plan your trip for late September to mid-October—just book well in advance as this is peak season.
Are there any free camping options in Vermont?
Free camping options in Vermont are limited but do exist. The Green Mountain National Forest allows dispersed camping in designated areas away from developed recreation sites. Always check current regulations before planning a dispersed camping trip. Some Walmart locations may allow overnight parking, but this is becoming less common—always ask permission from the store manager first.
What hookups are typically available at budget campgrounds in Vermont?
Most budget-friendly campgrounds in Vermont offer at least water and electric hookups (typically 30 AMP, though some offer 50 AMP). Full hookups with sewer connections are less common at the lower price points but are available at some locations. Primitive sites with no hookups are often the most affordable option but require self-sufficiency with your RV systems.
How far in advance should I book a Vermont campground?
For summer weekends and the entire fall foliage season (late September to mid-October), book at least 3-6 months in advance. For weekday stays and shoulder seasons, 1-2 months advance booking is usually sufficient. Many of the smaller, family-owned campgrounds listed in this guide don't use sophisticated online booking systems, so calling directly is often the best approach.
Are Vermont campgrounds typically pet-friendly?
Yes, most Vermont campgrounds welcome pets, including all the budget-friendly options listed in this guide. However, pets are typically required to be leashed when outside your RV, and some campgrounds may have breed or size restrictions. Always clean up after your pet and be respectful of quiet hours and other campers.
Enjoy Affordable RV Camping in the Green Mountain State
Vermont offers some of New England's most beautiful landscapes, from rolling Green Mountains to pristine lakes and charming small towns. With the budget-friendly campgrounds featured in this guide, you can experience all Vermont has to offer without breaking the bank. By camping at these affordable locations and following our money-saving tips, you'll enjoy a memorable Vermont vacation that's kind to your wallet.
Remember to book early for the best availability, especially during peak fall foliage season. Many of these smaller, family-owned campgrounds fill up quickly due to their excellent value and prime locations. Whether you're seeking riverside relaxation, mountain adventures, or historic covered bridges, Vermont's budget-friendly RV campgrounds provide the perfect base for your Green Mountain State exploration.
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