Best Tent Camping Campgrounds in Vermont
Vermont's pristine wilderness offers some of the most breathtaking tent camping experiences in New England. From the serene shores of Lake Champlain to the majestic peaks of the Green Mountains, Vermont's diverse landscape provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking for family-friendly campgrounds with modern amenities or remote backcountry sites for a more primitive experience, the Green Mountain State delivers unforgettable camping adventures in every season.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best tent camping campgrounds across Vermont, highlighting their unique features, available amenities, and nearby attractions. We've personally visited these locations to bring you authentic insights that will help you plan your perfect Vermont camping getaway. Get ready to discover hidden gems and popular favorites that showcase the natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities that make Vermont a premier camping destination.
Vermont Camping: What Makes It Special
Vermont's camping scene stands out for several reasons that make it a favorite destination for tent campers from across the Northeast and beyond. The state's commitment to conservation has preserved vast stretches of wilderness while still making them accessible to outdoor enthusiasts.
What truly sets Vermont camping apart is the remarkable diversity of experiences available within a relatively small state. In a single weekend, you can paddle on pristine lakes, hike sections of the famous Long Trail or Appalachian Trail, explore charming New England villages, and still have time to relax by your campfire under star-filled skies.
Vermont's state park system is exceptionally well-maintained, offering a perfect balance of natural beauty and practical amenities. Many campgrounds provide clean facilities, ranger-led programs, and recreational opportunities while preserving the wilderness experience that tent campers seek.
Explore Vermont's Camping Regions
Ready to discover the perfect camping spot in Vermont? Use the interactive map to explore camping regions across the state.
View Interactive MapBest Tent Camping in Northern Vermont
Northern Vermont offers some of the state's most pristine wilderness areas, with remote lakes, dense forests, and spectacular mountain views. This region is perfect for campers seeking a more secluded experience with opportunities for wildlife viewing and water-based recreation.
1. Burton Island State Park
Location: St. Albans Bay, Lake Champlain
Burton Island offers a truly unique camping experience as a 253-acre island accessible only by boat. The island's car-free environment creates a peaceful retreat where the loudest sounds you'll hear are lapping waves and birdsong. With 26 tent sites and 14 lean-tos spread along the shoreline, campers enjoy exceptional privacy and stunning lake views.
Key Features:
- Boat-access only (ferry service available)
- Waterfront tent sites and lean-tos
- Marina with boat slips
- Island store and bistro
- Sandy beaches for swimming
- Hiking trails throughout the island
Nearby Activities:
- Kayaking and canoeing
- Fishing for bass, pike, and perch
- Bird watching (over 100 species)
- Stargazing (minimal light pollution)
- Nature programs at the island's center
Insider Tip: Waterfront lean-to sites #3 and #4 offer the most privacy and spectacular sunset views. Reserve these up to 11 months in advance as they book quickly, especially for summer weekends.
Best Time to Visit: Late June through early September provides the warmest temperatures for swimming and water activities. Fall foliage season (late September to mid-October) offers spectacular colors but cooler temperatures.
2. Green River Reservoir State Park
Location: Hyde Park, Northern Vermont
For those seeking a true wilderness experience, Green River Reservoir offers primitive camping at its finest. This undeveloped park features 27 remote campsites accessible only by canoe or kayak, scattered along 19 miles of pristine shoreline. With no roads, electricity, or facilities beyond basic composting toilets, this is camping in its purest form.
Key Features:
- Paddle-in remote campsites
- Pristine 653-acre reservoir
- Completely undeveloped shoreline
- Primitive sites with fire rings
- Composting toilets at each site
- Abundant wildlife viewing
Nearby Activities:
- Paddling and exploring coves
- Swimming in crystal-clear water
- Fishing for trout and smallmouth bass
- Wildlife watching (loons, moose, beavers)
- Stargazing in dark skies
Insider Tip: Sites #11 and #16 offer the best combination of privacy and views, but require a longer paddle (30-45 minutes) from the launch. Pack everything in waterproof containers and bring a map as cell service is nonexistent.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-June through early September offers the most comfortable temperatures. Early morning paddling often rewards visitors with mist rising from the water and excellent wildlife sightings.
3. Grand Isle State Park
Location: Grand Isle, Lake Champlain Islands
Grand Isle State Park offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and family-friendly amenities. Located on South Hero Island in Lake Champlain, this 226-acre park features 117 tent sites and 36 lean-tos spread across open and wooded areas. With spectacular lake views and easy water access, it's ideal for families and first-time campers.
Key Features:
- Spacious, well-maintained campsites
- Hot showers and clean restrooms
- Sandy beach with swimming area
- Boat rentals (kayaks, canoes, paddleboards)
- Playground and recreation fields
- Nature center with programs
Nearby Activities:
- Biking on the Island Line Trail
- Fishing in Lake Champlain
- Visiting local farms and orchards
- Wine tasting at Snow Farm Vineyard
- Exploring the Champlain Islands
Insider Tip: The Apple lean-to sites (especially #5-8) offer the best combination of lake views and privacy. Visit nearby Allenholm Farm for fresh-picked berries and apple cider donuts – a perfect camping breakfast!
Best Time to Visit: July and August offer the warmest temperatures for swimming, while September provides fewer crowds and spectacular sunset views across the lake.
Best Tent Camping in Central Vermont
Central Vermont combines accessible wilderness with proximity to charming towns and cultural attractions. This region offers diverse camping experiences from mountain settings to riverside retreats, making it perfect for campers who want to balance outdoor adventure with exploring Vermont's famous small towns.
4. Little River State Park
Location: Waterbury, Central Vermont
Little River State Park offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty on the shores of Waterbury Reservoir. The park features 81 tent sites and 20 lean-tos nestled in a forested setting, many with water views. What makes this park special is its rich history – the area was once home to a 19th-century settlement, and remnants of old homesteads can still be explored on hiking trails.
Key Features:
- Waterfront and wooded campsites
- Hot showers and flush toilets
- Two swimming beaches
- Boat rentals and launch
- Historical hiking trails
- Excellent interpretive programs
Nearby Activities:
- Exploring abandoned settlement ruins
- Mountain biking on nearby trails
- Visiting Ben & Jerry's Factory
- Hiking in Camel's Hump State Park
- Exploring downtown Waterbury and Stowe
Insider Tip: Waterfront lean-tos #1-5 offer the best views but book quickly. Don't miss the ranger-led history hikes to the old cemetery and homestead foundations – they bring the area's past to life in fascinating detail.
Best Time to Visit: Late May through mid-October, with July and August being ideal for swimming. Fall foliage season offers spectacular colors reflected in the reservoir waters.
5. Gifford Woods State Park
Location: Killington, Central Vermont
Gifford Woods State Park is a true gem for nature lovers, featuring one of the few remaining old-growth forests in Vermont. The park offers 22 tent sites and 19 lean-tos nestled among ancient sugar maples, yellow birches, and hemlocks. Located at the base of Killington Peak, it provides an excellent base camp for exploring the Green Mountains.
Key Features:
- Old-growth forest setting
- Access to Appalachian and Long Trails
- Clean restrooms with hot showers
- Cozy camping cabins available
- Nature programs and interpretive trails
- Kent Pond access for fishing
Nearby Activities:
- Hiking to Killington Peak
- Mountain biking at Killington Resort
- Fishing for trout in Kent Pond
- Scenic drives on Route 100
- Visiting Woodstock and Quechee Gorge
Insider Tip: Lean-tos #14-17 offer the most privacy and are closest to the old-growth forest trail. In late spring, the park's wildflower display is spectacular, with trillium and jack-in-the-pulpit carpeting the forest floor.
Best Time to Visit: Late May through mid-October. Fall foliage season (late September to mid-October) is especially stunning with the ancient maples turning brilliant colors.
6. Elmore State Park
Location: Elmore, Central Vermont
Known as "The Beauty Spot of Vermont," Elmore State Park combines mountain and lake scenery in one perfect package. The park features 45 tent sites and 15 lean-tos set on the shores of Lake Elmore, with Elmore Mountain rising dramatically behind it. The combination of swimming, hiking, and mountain views makes this a favorite for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- Beach with swimming area
- Boat rentals (canoes, kayaks, rowboats)
- Hiking trail to Elmore Mountain fire tower
- Clean facilities with hot showers
- Playground and recreation fields
- Evening nature programs
Nearby Activities:
- Hiking to Elmore Mountain fire tower
- Fishing for trout and bass
- Mountain biking on local trails
- Visiting Rock of Ages Granite Quarry
- Exploring Stowe and Morrisville
Insider Tip: The Beach lean-tos (especially #1-3) offer the best lake views and easy water access. Hike to the fire tower early in the morning for spectacular sunrise views and to beat the crowds on summer days.
Best Time to Visit: June through September for swimming and water activities. The park is especially beautiful in early October when fall colors reflect in the lake.
Best Tent Camping in Southern Vermont
Southern Vermont offers a perfect blend of accessible wilderness, historic sites, and cultural attractions. This region tends to have a slightly longer camping season and is easily accessible from major Northeast metropolitan areas, making it ideal for weekend getaways.
7. Jamaica State Park
Location: Jamaica, Southern Vermont
Jamaica State Park offers some of Vermont's most scenic riverside camping along the West River. The park features 41 tent sites and 18 lean-tos set in a wooded area near the river, providing a perfect base for water activities and hiking. The combination of river access, swimming holes, and proximity to mountain trails makes this park exceptionally versatile.
Key Features:
- Sites near the West River
- Swimming at Salmon Hole
- Access to West River Trail
- Clean facilities with hot showers
- Playground and recreation field
- Walking distance to Jamaica village
Nearby Activities:
- Hiking to Hamilton Falls
- Biking on the West River Rail Trail
- Whitewater kayaking (during dam releases)
- Exploring Stratton Mountain
- Visiting nearby Manchester for shopping
Insider Tip: Lean-tos #13-18 offer the best river views and access. The 3-mile hike to Hamilton Falls is a must-do, but visit early in the day during summer to avoid crowds at this popular 125-foot cascading waterfall.
Best Time to Visit: Late May through mid-October. Check the dam release schedule if you're interested in watching whitewater kayaking events, typically held several weekends per year.
8. Emerald Lake State Park
Location: East Dorset, Southern Vermont
Emerald Lake State Park is a hidden gem nestled between the Taconic Mountains and Green Mountains. The park features 67 tent sites and 37 lean-tos spread throughout a heavily wooded hillside above the stunning emerald-green lake. Known for having some of the warmest swimming water in Vermont, this park is perfect for families and water enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- 20-acre emerald-green lake
- Sandy beach with swimming area
- Boat rentals (canoes, kayaks, paddleboards)
- Hiking trails with mountain views
- Clean facilities with hot showers
- Secluded wooded campsites
Nearby Activities:
- Hiking in the Taconic Mountains
- Visiting historic Manchester Village
- Shopping at Manchester outlets
- Exploring Hildene (Lincoln family home)
- Fly fishing on the Battenkill River
Insider Tip: The Hawthorne lean-to offers the best combination of privacy and lake access. The unique color of the lake comes from its mineral content – bring goggles to fully appreciate the underwater clarity.
Best Time to Visit: June through September for swimming, with July and August offering the warmest water temperatures. The park is less crowded on weekdays, even during peak summer season.
9. Woodford State Park
Location: Woodford, Southern Vermont
At 2,400 feet elevation, Woodford State Park is Vermont's highest campground, offering a unique boreal forest experience more typical of Canada than Vermont. The park features 76 tent sites and 20 lean-tos surrounding a pristine mountain lake. The high elevation creates a cooler microclimate, making this park a perfect summer escape during heat waves.
Key Features:
- High-elevation boreal forest setting
- 23-acre Adams Reservoir
- Sandy beach with swimming area
- Boat rentals (canoes, kayaks, rowboats)
- Hiking trails through unique ecosystem
- Clean facilities with hot showers
Nearby Activities:
- Hiking in Green Mountain National Forest
- Mountain biking on nearby trails
- Visiting historic Bennington
- Exploring Glastenbury Mountain
- Appalachian Trail access points
Insider Tip: Lean-tos #1-5 offer the best lake views. Bring warm clothes even in summer – nighttime temperatures can drop into the 40s due to the elevation. The park's unique ecosystem hosts plants and animals typically found much further north.
Best Time to Visit: Late June through early September. This park opens later and closes earlier than other Vermont state parks due to its elevation and cooler temperatures.
Wilderness Tent Camping in Vermont
For experienced campers seeking solitude and a more primitive experience, Vermont offers excellent wilderness camping options. These locations typically have fewer amenities but provide unparalleled natural beauty and tranquility.
10. Green Mountain National Forest Dispersed Camping
Location: Throughout Southern and Central Vermont
Green Mountain National Forest offers free dispersed camping across its 400,000 acres, providing the ultimate wilderness experience for self-sufficient campers. From roadside pull-offs to remote backcountry sites, you can find the perfect spot to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Popular areas include White Rocks Recreation Area, Grout Pond, and the areas along Routes 9 and 100.
Key Features:
- Free primitive camping
- No reservations required
- Complete solitude possible
- Access to extensive trail networks
- Pristine streams and swimming holes
- Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities
Nearby Activities:
- Hiking on the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail
- Mountain biking on forest roads
- Fishing in remote streams
- Wildlife photography
- Foraging for edible plants (with proper knowledge)
Important: Dispersed camping requires strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Camp at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and roads. No facilities are available – pack out all waste and be prepared with water filtration systems.
Best Time to Visit: Late May through mid-October. Be aware that forest roads may be impassable during mud season (typically April-May) and after heavy rains.
11. Remote Campsites on the Long Trail
Location: Along the spine of the Green Mountains
Vermont's iconic Long Trail runs 272 miles from Massachusetts to Canada along the main ridge of the Green Mountains. Along the trail, the Green Mountain Club maintains a network of shelters and tent platforms that provide rustic accommodations for hikers. These sites offer a true backcountry experience with stunning mountain views and the satisfaction of reaching them under your own power.
Key Features:
- Rustic three-sided shelters
- Designated tent platforms at many sites
- Access to pristine water sources (require filtering)
- Composting or moldering toilets
- Spectacular mountain views
- Camaraderie with fellow hikers
Popular Shelter Areas:
- Stratton Pond Shelter (southern section)
- Taft Lodge near Mount Mansfield
- Butler Lodge with views of Lake Champlain
- Skyline Lodge overlooking a mountain pond
- Sterling Pond Shelter near Smugglers' Notch
Important: These sites are accessible only by hiking, often requiring strenuous climbs. Proper backpacking equipment is essential. During peak season (July-September), shelters can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Best Time to Visit: June through October, with September and early October offering spectacular fall colors and fewer bugs. Avoid mud season (typically April-May) when trails are vulnerable to damage.
Essential Tips for Tent Camping in Vermont
Weather Considerations
- Pack for all conditions – Vermont weather can change rapidly
- Bring warm layers even in summer (nights can drop into the 40s)
- Always pack quality rain gear and waterproof footwear
- Consider a tent with a full rain fly and seam sealing
- Use a ground cloth or footprint under your tent
- Check weather forecasts but be prepared for unexpected changes
Wildlife Awareness
- Store food properly to avoid attracting bears and raccoons
- Use bear-resistant containers or hang food when required
- Keep a clean campsite – wash dishes away from your tent
- Check for ticks daily (Lyme disease is present in Vermont)
- Learn to identify poison ivy and other irritating plants
- Observe wildlife from a distance – never feed wild animals
Leave No Trace
- Pack out all trash – leave sites cleaner than you found them
- Use established fire rings only and fully extinguish fires
- Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion
- Use biodegradable soap and wash 200 feet from water sources
- Respect quiet hours and fellow campers' space
- Leave natural objects and cultural artifacts where you find them
Vermont Camping Seasons
Spring (May-June): Beautiful wildflowers and fewer crowds, but be prepared for mud and bugs. Many campgrounds open Memorial Day weekend.
Summer (July-August): Peak season with warmest temperatures and full services at all campgrounds. Reservations strongly recommended, especially for weekends.
Fall (September-October): Spectacular foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds after Labor Day. Many campgrounds close after Indigenous Peoples' Day (second Monday in October).
Winter: Most developed campgrounds close, but backcountry winter camping is available for properly equipped adventurers in Green Mountain National Forest and some state parks.
Vermont Camping Regulations and Practical Information
Reservation Information
Vermont State Parks accept reservations up to 11 months in advance, which is highly recommended for popular parks and summer weekends. Reservations can be made online through the Vermont State Parks website or by phone at 1-888-409-7579.
Fees and Passes
Vermont State Park camping fees typically range from $18-30 per night for tent sites, depending on the park and amenities. Lean-tos and cabins cost more. An annual Vermont State Parks pass ($90 for Vermont residents, $100 for non-residents) provides day-use access to all state parks and can be a good value for frequent visitors.
Fire Regulations
Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings at established campgrounds. During dry periods, fire bans may be implemented. Always check current fire conditions and restrictions. Firewood should be purchased locally to prevent the spread of invasive insects – Vermont prohibits bringing firewood from out-of-state.
Pet Policies
Most Vermont State Parks allow pets in camping areas but require them to be leashed and under control at all times. Some parks have designated pet-friendly beaches or trails. Always clean up after your pet and be respectful of other campers.
Quiet Hours
Vermont State Parks enforce quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. During these times, generators, loud music, and other disruptive noises are prohibited to ensure all campers can enjoy a peaceful experience.
Accessibility
Many Vermont State Parks offer accessible campsites, restrooms, and recreation facilities. The Vermont State Parks website provides detailed accessibility information for each park, and staff can help arrange accommodations for visitors with specific needs.
| Camping Type | Reservation Required | Typical Cost | Facilities | Best For |
| State Park Tent Sites | Yes (recommended) | $18-25/night | Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings | Families, first-time campers |
| State Park Lean-tos | Yes (essential) | $25-30/night | Covered wooden shelter, restrooms, showers | Extended stays, rainy weather camping |
| Remote/Boat-in Sites | Yes | $15-20/night | Primitive (pit toilets, fire rings) | Experienced campers seeking solitude |
| National Forest Dispersed | No | Free | None (pack in/pack out) | Self-sufficient wilderness enthusiasts |
| Long Trail Shelters | No | Free (donations encouraged) | Basic shelter, composting toilet | Backpackers, through-hikers |
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Browse All Vermont CampgroundsExperience the Magic of Tent Camping in Vermont
Vermont's diverse landscape offers tent camping experiences that can satisfy every outdoor enthusiast – from families seeking amenity-rich state parks to adventurers looking for remote wilderness solitude. The state's commitment to conservation ensures that these natural spaces remain pristine while still being accessible to visitors who want to connect with nature.
Whether you're falling asleep to the sound of lapping waves at a lakeside site, watching the sunset from a mountain vista, or waking up to mist rising from a secluded forest, camping in Vermont creates memories that last a lifetime. The changing seasons offer entirely different experiences, from summer swimming and hiking to spectacular fall foliage displays that transform the landscape into a painter's palette.
As you plan your Vermont camping adventure, remember that the state's popularity means booking early is essential, especially for summer weekends and fall foliage season. But with proper planning and an adventurous spirit, you'll discover why Vermont remains one of the Northeast's premier tent camping destinations – a place where natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and the simple pleasures of campfire evenings come together in perfect harmony.
"In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks." – John Muir
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Find and Reserve Your Campsite TodayFrequently Asked Questions About Tent Camping in Vermont
When is the best time to go tent camping in Vermont?
The prime tent camping season in Vermont runs from late May through mid-October. July and August offer the warmest temperatures and full services at all campgrounds, but also the largest crowds. Early June and September provide a wonderful balance of pleasant weather and fewer people. Fall foliage season (late September to mid-October) offers spectacular scenery but cooler temperatures, especially at night. Most state park campgrounds open Memorial Day weekend and close after Indigenous Peoples' Day in October.
Do I need to make reservations for camping in Vermont?
Reservations are highly recommended for Vermont State Parks, especially for weekends, holidays, and the entire month of August. You can make reservations up to 11 months in advance through the Vermont State Parks website or by phone. For popular parks like Burton Island and Grand Isle, waterfront sites often book 6-11 months ahead for summer weekends. Dispersed camping in Green Mountain National Forest does not require reservations but has specific regulations about where camping is permitted.
What should I pack for tent camping in Vermont?
Vermont's weather can be unpredictable, so pack for a variety of conditions. Essential items include: a quality tent with full rain fly, warm sleeping bag (rated to at least 30°F even in summer), sleeping pad for insulation, rain gear, layers of clothing including warm options for cool evenings, sturdy footwear, insect repellent, sunscreen, basic first aid kit, headlamp or flashlight, and food storage containers. If camping in remote areas, bring water filtration equipment and a detailed map of the area. For state parks, bring quarters for showers and cash for firewood purchases.
Are there bears in Vermont, and how should I store food while camping?
Yes, black bears are present throughout Vermont. While encounters are relatively rare, proper food storage is essential. In state parks, store food in your vehicle or in sealed containers. When backcountry camping, hang food at least 10 feet high and 4 feet from any tree trunk, or use bear-resistant containers. Never store food, cooking equipment, or scented items (including toiletries) in your tent. Clean up thoroughly after meals and dispose of waste properly. Follow any specific food storage guidelines posted at your camping location.
Can I bring my dog camping in Vermont?
Most Vermont State Parks allow dogs in camping areas, though they must be leashed (maximum 10-foot leash) and under control at all times. Some parks have designated pet-friendly beaches or trails. Always clean up after your pet and be respectful of other campers. In Green Mountain National Forest, dogs are generally allowed but should be leashed in developed recreation areas and under voice control in backcountry areas. Check specific park regulations before your trip, as policies may vary or change.
