Camp & Hike
Bike
If you have ever been to Vermont (or if you are lucky enough to live here), you will know that it's a state rich in natural beauty, with lush forests, ancient mountains, and secluded valleys.
Vermont is the second least populated state (behind Wyoming), yet it has always attracted a large number of visitors who come to enjoy its New England charm, eccentric attractions, and incredible recreational options.
If you wish to have an outdoor family vacation in Vermont this year, Vermont State Parks are the best option!
What are the Best Vermont Campgrounds?
Kids enjoy being wet, and our short Vermont summers are ideal for swimming, paddling, and fishing.
If you are going to Vermont with children, you will want to visit these fantastic Vermont state parks, which include the best family campgrounds in Vermont.
All of the parks we've chosen provide a variety of camping options, including basic tent/RV sites, lean-tos, and camping cottages. Plan a weekend break or a Vermont road trip to visit many parks.
Ready to go outside? Here are our best Vermont campgrounds for families with children!
READ ALSO: Best North Georgia Campgrounds
1. Jamaica State Park
In the center of Vermont's Green Mountains, in south-central region, sits Jamaica State Park.
The West River, which meanders through the middle of the park, serves as its focal point. The comparatively calm Salmon Hole swimming area is a great place for families with small children to cool down.
As long as you don't mind a strong current and lots of boulders, you can swim almost anyplace with older children or dogs.
Biking on the shaded West River Rail Trail, which follows the river all the way to Ball Mountain Dam (well worth a visit), is another great family activity.
Park your bikes and take the side route to Hamilton Falls, one of Vermont's most picturesque waterfalls, while biking the rail trail.
There are 41 tent/RV sites and 18 lean-tos in the family-friendly campsite at Jamaica State Park. The passage continues. All of the campsites offer close access to the water, though we've never managed to secure a lean-to on the waterfront.
In addition, Jamaica State Park boasts an excellent playground. For ice cream cones, it's a short stroll to the community of Jamaica.
The passage continues. Because Jamaica State Park offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, we've ranked it as one of the greatest family campgrounds in Vermont. The passage continues.
You can go swimming, hiking, biking, or fishing in a single summer weekend. It's also one of the few Vermont State Parks that can be reached by foot from the town.
2. Button Bay State Park
A 45-minute drive south of Burlington, Button Bay State Park is situated in Ferrisburgh, Vermont, and provides direct access to Lake Champlain. Among the thirteen Vermont State Parks situated on Lake Champlain, Button Bay stands out as a personal favorite.
Following the Great Lakes, Lake Champlain is the largest lake in the Northeast and the country.
We implore you to abandon everything and make travel plans right away if you haven't taken your kids to Lake Champlain yet. Furthermore, Button Bay State Park is the ideal location for making s'mores, taking in magnificent sunsets, and spending the night outside.
Kids enjoy strolling along the shore, going to the nature center, and swimming in the park's swimming pool. Button Bay State Park is a kid magnet.
This is the only Vermont State Park that I am aware of that contains a swimming pool, and Button Bay has a lifeguard on duty every time the pool is open, in contrast to the majority of state park swimming sites.
One of Vermont's dog-friendliest parks is Button Bay. You will be right next to the trail that descends to the dog beach if you remain in the Willow lean-to.
3. Little River State Park
One of the most well-liked state parks in central Vermont is Little River State Park, which is located in Waterbury, not far from Stowe.
Definitely one of the nicest family campgrounds in Vermont, the park is one of two state parks situated on the artificial Waterbury Reservoir.
During the day, Little River State Park is an excellent option for camping, but Waterbury Center State Park is the location to go swimming, boating, and fishing.
Two tiny, shaded beaches, canoe and kayak rentals, and camping cottages for families who prefer not to rough it are some of this park's highlights.
It is ideal for extroverted youngsters who enjoy making new acquaintances when on vacation because it has an abundance of hiking paths suitable for all skill levels, multiple secret cemeteries within the forest, and an endless number of children.
READ ALSO: Lake Tahoe Campgrounds
4. Mountain View Campground
Mountain View Campground is a small, family-owned and maintained private campground in northern Vermont that provides RV, tent, and cabin accommodations.
We are the ideal location and home base for your Vermont adventures, with direct access to the stunning Lamoille River!
Guests enjoy modern, perfectly maintained facilities as well as a clean, calm, peaceful, and delightful camping experience.
Various amenities are included. There is something for everyone, including adults, children, and dogs. Please be aware that we have no planned activities or events.
The rules and policies are being set in place to guarantee the safety, enjoyment, and comfort of all guests. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with our policies before booking.
5. Groton State Forest
Almost 30,000 acres and seven distinct state parks make up Vermont's largest publicly owned territory, Groton State Forest.
Groton State Forest is located in one of Vermont's most isolated areas, between the Green Mountains and the Connecticut River in the state's northern half, so exploring it will take more than a weekend.
There is a location in Groton State Forest that calls to you, whether your preference is to hike inaccessible hills, canoe in immaculate lakes and ponds, or just relax on the beach.
To ensure convenient access to the water, make your camping reservation at Ricker Pond State Park or Stillwater State Park. All of the other Vermont State Parks are accessible by car or bicycle from Groton State Forest.
Kids enjoyed swimming at the camper's beach and walking or biking to the nature center while they were camping in Stillwater State Park. In order to get out on the sea, there is a boat launch as well.
6. Burton Island State Park
This year, are you planning a trip to a tropical island? Thankfully, Vermont offers a more affordable alternative for living on an island—as long as the weather holds out, of course.
A 253-acre park called Burton Island is located in northern Lake Champlain, not far from the coasts of St. Albans. The island has no cars and can only be reached by boat.
Throughout the summer, the Island Runner, a Vermont State Park ferry, departs from Kamp Kill Kare State Park in St. Albans multiple times daily.
Burton Island offers slips for overnight use for boats that come with hook-ups and a fire pit of your own.
There are many different ways to camp on Burton Island, ranging from remote, rustic locations and seaside lean-tos to lovely cabins with electricity and beds.
Kids felt very safe exploring the roads, walks, and trails because there aren't any automobiles around.
They spent their days at the nature center, playing disc golf, renting paddleboards, and swimming at the beach. They were constantly discovering new things about the island.
READ ALSO: San Clemente Campgrounds
7. Emerald Lake State Park
One of the greatest spots to cool off on a hot summer day is Emerald Lake State Park, which is well-liked by the residents. Emerald Lake, a family campground in East Dorset, is regarded as one of the best in Vermont.
Emerald Lake may just be 20 acres in size, but its beauty more than makes up for its small size. Situated between the Green Mountains to the east and the Taconic Mountains to the west, it is tucked away in a deep valley.
Beautiful vistas may be seen in every direction as the mountains rise sharply on either side of the lake. The park is great for camping in a tent or hammock, but if an RV is more your thing, there is space for those as well.
8. Lake Carmi State Park
Lake Carmi is a stunning lake that offers 1,375 acres of recreational opportunities. It is the fourth largest natural lake in Vermont. Along with being a great lake for fishing, it has plenty of walleye and northern pike to keep you on your toes.
The 140-acre southern end of the lake is an intriguing feature. It has silted in over the previous few centuries following the last ice age, creating a distinctive bog with black spruce and tamarack trees as well as a thick ground cover of pitcher plants, sedges, and sphagnum moss.
One of the best places to camp in Vermont is Lake Carmi State Park, a stunning natural region with a rich ecosystem that is accessible to anyone.
Since it is shallow, Lake Carmi maintains a pleasant temperature throughout the summer, making it an excellent place to swim. Although there are no RV connections at the sites, there is still plenty of space between them for solitude.
Although there is a day-use section with a beach, nature center, bathrooms, and boat rentals, the campground itself is only open for overnight visitors.
9. Townshend State Park
Townshend State Park is well sited at the foot of Bald Mountain. It is noted for its rustic and natural camping setting. The woodland campsite contains 30 tent or trailer sites and four lean-tos.
Two facilities (one with showers), a picnic shelter with a fireplace, and three tables. The park appears to include a picnic area, hiking trails, as well as a campground with tent platforms.
Because of the park's size and arrangement, there is a maximum of six persons and one vehicle per site. There is a trail to the summit of Bald Mountain for day hiking with stunning views.
READ ALSO: Lake Barkley Campgrounds
10. Tree Farm Campground
This guy's campground is quiet and calm, but only a few minutes from downtown Springfield's shops and restaurants. Their individual campsites are big, private, and surrounded by white pine trees, with the majority standing over 120 feet tall!
They offer a stunning log cabin lodge common area with complimentary hot showers and the cleanest bathrooms in the company. They welcome both tents and recreational vehicles at our park.
Their RV sites include full water, electric, septic, cable, and WIFI hookups, and many can accommodate most rig sizes, ranging from small pop-up trailers to 35-40ft motorhomes.
Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities which includes hunting, historic tours, beautiful driving, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. Whether for one night or two, we hope to see you soon!
11. Abel Mountain Campground
Are you looking for a wonderful, peaceful location to unwind? You have arrived to the correct location! Abel Mountain Campground, tucked along the third branch of the White River, is only minutes from the highway but feels like a calm hidden refuge.
It offers 270 acres of trails. There are 131 wide, grassy plots available, including 117 water/electric/sewer and 14 water/electric. We've opened up more riverbank campsites for non-seasonal campers.
All sites have picnic tables and huge fire rings. Enjoy the peaceful and welcoming ambiance, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the river.
They are in the heart of Vermont, so many of its attractions are within reasonable driving distance - see our links to recreation activities here. Like to dance? Do you want to play bingo? Play horseshoes?
Take a look at the various activities scheduled for the season. Do you just want to relax? Reserve one of our riverfront campsites and enjoy a campfire while listening to the peaceful sounds of the river.
12. Brighton State Park
A sight to behold is Brighton State Park, which is located on the serene banks of Spectacle Pond and features mountains covered with trees.
Picture yourself on a calm lakeside morning, softly dipping your paddle in as the loons gracefully swim about you, their spooky toons ringing out. This is what camping is all about, these kinds of moments.
This serene location is quite worthy of being included to your list of must-see camping locations in Vermont.
Brighton State Park is an excellent family destination to enjoy a stunning natural setting with your family, and it has many of kid-friendly hiking routes.
Despite being a distant campground, Brighton offers a large number of sites. There are many options for enjoying your stay, including twenty-three lean-to sites, five cabins, and 54 tent and self-contained RV sites.
Pets are permitted in certain areas of the park, but not on the beaches, in the official swimming areas, or in the day-use areas. The only cabin that allows pets is Raven Cabin.
READ ALSO: Mission Bay Campgrounds
13. Fort Dummer State Park
Fort Dummer State Park is a charming, little camping area about a weekend trip from New York City and Boston. It is close to Brattleboro, a historic and culturally rich town that is always enjoyable to visit.
The park is located on the Molly Stark Byway and the Connecticut River Byway. The campsite includes 50 tent or trailer sites, 10 lean-to sites, and two toilets with hot showers.
There is a sanitary trash station, but no hookups. Campers can also enjoy picnic areas, hiking routes, and open fields for playing at all times.
14. Half Moon Pond State Park, Hubbardton
This popular family camping surrounds the lovely Half Moon Pond. Camping options include tents and lean-tos, as well as five cabins.
Rowboats, kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats can be rented, and there are two small, sandy beaches ideal for swimming on hot days. Try your hand at fishing for yellow perch, largemouth bass, or rainbow trout.
If you want a peaceful outing, visit the neighboring and unspoiled Glen Lake, which is located between Half Moon and Bomoseen.
15. Parker Hill Farm Boutique Campground
You are in for a treat with this boutique camping retreat on a farm that has been there since 1790, complete with quaint luxury tents named after notable families that originally moved in the area!
The Parker Hill Farm Boutique Campground is a pleasant experience, whether you choose to observe the alpaca and Wagyu cattle, enjoy movie night under the stars, toast marshmallows around the fire ring, or go trout fishing in the half-acre pond. The farm is also a fantastic location for weddings!
You are in for a fantastic camping experience with five luxurious glamping tents to choose from: The Cutler, Harlow, Walker, Fletcher, and Parker.
Each tent features a king-sized bed, Wi-Fi, power, heat and air conditioning, kitchenettes, and ensuite toilets.
On weekends, a freshly prepared breakfast is served, and you have access to a cooking area, fire pit, and barbeque grill for any gourmet meals you'd like to prepare.
READ ALSO: Best South Haven Campgrounds
16. Base Camp Outdoor Center and Campground
There is something unique about the Base Camp Outdoor Center and Campground, which is located slightly to the northeast of the Jay State Forest, as soon as your RV pulls up. It's a cozy location deep in the woods, unlike many expansive RV campgrounds.
It truly does feel as though you are alone in a remote and hidden area of Vermont. It's not necessary to rough it too much either, as there's a lovely swimming pool.
Northern Vermont offers 32 RV sites with water and electricity hookups, perfect for a fun woodland camping experience. For those hot, sunny days when you just decide to cool off, the campground also features a swimming pool.
17. Elmore State Park
"The Beauty Spot of Vermont," as they called themselves. Elmore is a little town with a large heart that also boasts stunning natural settings.
It's a genuinely lovely place, with a mix of open countryside, dense forests, and mountain views. Make sure to hike to the Balancing Rock at Elmore State Park if you're camping there.
It appears to balance on a tiny point, defying gravity. Additionally, the ascent to the summit of the fire tower offers breathtaking views of the Worcester Range, which extends into the hazy blue distance, as well as the valley below.
Elmore State Park features fifteen lean-to sites, forty-four tent and RV sites, and a rural small-town environment. Complete amenities are provided, including coin-operated showers, a picnic table, easy access to the internet, bath house, a hot tub and cold running water, and flush toilets.
The expansive sandy swimming beach with a beach house that has restrooms, changing areas, and a concession stand is one of its most well-liked attractions. Events with up to fifty guests can also rent out the beach house.
For a good good camping experience, then seek Emore, because it has become a popular destination and a perfect place for campers. You can also bring your whole family.
18. Stillwater State Park, Groton
Since the Groton Forest contains six state parks, there are numerous camping opportunities. Each park is distinct, and if you pay to enter one state park, you have access to all of them, so taking short excursions is a simple choice if you choose.
Stillwater State Park is ideal for families, with activities likes of a bike parade, pancake breakfast, fairy house-making, and a live raptor program.
There are camper beaches, tent and lean-to places available, and the region is a biker's paradise. Take a stroll up Owl's Head to the stone tower, which offers a beautiful perspective of the woodland.
READ ALSO: Best Camping with Dogs
19. Branbury State Park
This state park was once a farm in the early 1900s. It is situated on the picturesque Lake Dunmore in the foothills of Mt. Moosalamoo, a fun-to-say mountain that sounds like it should be a delicious dessert.
Since then, it has had a variety of uses, including guest house, boy's camp, private beach, and picnic area. In 1945, it was designated as Branbury (Brandon-Salisbury) State Park.
During the warmer months, a lovely sandy beach at the 1,000-foot swimming area is a big draw. A popular attraction in the park is the trek to the Falls of Lana, a 100-foot cascade that empties into a refreshing swimming pool.
Branbury is a smaller campground with just 36 tent sites, 1 lean-to site, and 1 cottage, but that merely means you can enjoy a peaceful woodland campground on the edge of the Green Mountain National Forest.
Shower tokens are used at the location; they cost.50 cents and provide five minutes of hot water. Pets are welcome everywhere else but not on the beach, in the swimming area, or in the cabin.
20. Lake St. Catherine State Park
For some of the best panfish fishing in the area, head to the stunning Lake St. Catharine with a kayak and a fishing pole. Northern pike, trout, and small- and large-mouth bass are also possible catches.
We imagine that this is just the tip of your tongue when you picture a peaceful, serene campsite near a lake. And with good cause.
The stunning Lake St. Catherine State Park offers all of the well-known and enjoyable camping experiences. Other than fantastic hiking, fishing, swimming, and a crackling bonfire, what more could you ask for?
There is plenty of space for your next camping trip, with 50 tent and self-contained RV sites as well as 11 lean-to sites available.
This location includes everything you could need or want for a camping vacation, including a beautiful lake, wide grassland areas, and a mix of woodland and open campsites.
When the sun is at its highest in the summer, people congregate in the well-designed picnic and swimming area. You can also rent kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and snack bars from the nature center, which also has a snack bar.
21. Grand Isle State Park, Grand Isle
The largest island in Lake Champlain, with the Adirondack Mountains to the west and the Green Mountains to the east, offers fantastic camping opportunities. That's correct,
Grand Isle State Park features some of the state's greatest and most popular campgrounds. Spend the day swimming, biking, and paddling, as well as attending special events such as concerts and dancing.
The world's oldest fossil reef lies nearby, as is the country's oldest wood home. This camping park offers it all: tent sites, lean-to cabins, beaches, biking, boat rentals, volleyball, horseshoes, a nature trail, a play area, and some beautiful picnic areas.
READ ALSO: Best Lake Almanor Campgrounds
22. Apple Island Resort
In South Hero, Vermont, take advantage of one of the nicest locations in this resort-style RV park directly on Lake Champlain. Apple Island Resort is a fantastic option if you prefer an RV camping experience with more features.
You can also reserve the Mott House, a tastefully remodeled 1880s farmhouse that can accommodate up to eight guests if you adore the resort but are looking for something different.
At the marina, you are free to rent a boat to explore Lake Champlain, play a round of golf, or just relax by the pool. This entertaining RV site offers plenty of activities.
The design of this wonderful campsite was created with RV campers in mind. Complete connections are available at every spacious site, accommodating Class A RVs up to 45 feet in length as well as an extra car.
Every campsite features a 30/50-amp connection for water, sewage, and WiFi. Because you feel like you have your own area on the lake, the sites that face Lake Champlain are the greatest.
There are several planned activities available at the campground, such as yoga, Texas Hold'em, sewing, and watercolor lessons. In addition, there's a general store, a marina, a nine-hole golf course, rest rooms. clean bathrooms, a dump station, and a lovely pool. Are you making it your perfect spot now? Don't waste time!
23. Smugglers' Notch State Park
Smugglers' Notch State Park is one of Vermont's most popular hiking locations, offering year-round outdoor adventures. From hiking down to biking to ice climbing and cave exploration.
The campground provides a variety of hands-on activities, interpreter-led events, and the opportunity to learn about the park's unique heritage. With 1000-foot cliffs and breathtaking views of the Green Mountains, Smuggler's Notch feels like another world.
One of its most notable features is Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest summit. Smuggler's Notch is a passage between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak that was utilized by British smugglers in the early 1800s to circumvent the Embargo Act of 1807, which outlawed American trade with Canada and Great Britain.
24. Lake Champlain Islands State Park
Imagine when you wake up to the gentle sound of waves lapping against your tent's shoreline at the early hour of dawn.
This state park is more than just a place to visit; it is a refuge that reflects the splendor of nature. It is located in northwest Vermont, tucked away inside a network of islands.
The reflection of the early sun in the waters of Lake Champlain serves as the backdrop. Gazing across its breadth, travelers experience an ancient and everlasting spectacle: the sun rising, the lake glistening, the world awakening.
Isak Dinesen once said, "Salt water is the cure for anything: sweat, tears, or the sea." Lake Champlain becomes a soul-remedy at this state park. It turns into a comforting energy, a healer, and a reflection muse.
READ ALSO: Top Bluff Valley Campgrounds & RV Parks
25. Lake Shaftsbury State Park, Shaftsbury
The group camping location on Lake Shaftsbury includes 15 lean-tos organized into three clusters, each with a fire ring, water spigot, and grills.
The group camping area is surrounded by trees and positioned on the opposite side of the day use area, ensuring solitude for your party.
The day use area includes a beach, a playground, and a picnic area with an open picnic shelter that is ideal for shade or rainy weather.
The snack bar also rents canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and pedal boats. Do not miss the famed "Healing Springs Nature Trail" walk!
26. Quechee State Park
The Quechee Gorge, also known as Vermont's Grand Canyon, is a spectacular natural wonder that is 165 feet deep. It was formed 13,000 years ago when glacier discharge cut down the valley.
When you stay at the Quechee State Park campground, you'll see spectacular wildlife, including soaring eagles and elegant white-tailed deer. If you enjoy birdwatching, you'll be delighted by the variety of songbirds and waterfowl.
Of course, we can't forget about fishing in the Ottauquechee River for rainbow, brook, and brown trout. The Quechee State Park campsite has six cottages for rent, 43 tent and RV sites, and seven lean-to sites.
27. Tree Corners Family Campground
Tree Corners Campground is a great place for families to vacation with many of amenities to make your stay enjoyable and comfortable.
A fully-featured camping campground situated in a stunning forest of old-growth oak, maple, and pine trees formerly housed a 38-acre nursery. When the fruit trees start blooming in the spring, it is really beautiful.
Even better, you can view these magnificent animals without having to hike across the hills or visit the zoo thanks to the nearby elk and bison farm.
This is one of the greatest campgrounds in Vermont for any kind of vacation, whether you bring your own RV, rent a camper there, or stay in one of the comfortable cabins.
Featuring more than 130 different site options, such as rental camps, cabins, lean-tos, and full RV hookup sites.
Enjoy monthly events such as ice cream and karaoke nights, vintage car displays, corn hole competitions, pumpkin tossing competitions, DJ dance parties, and much more.
RED ALSO: Campgrounds Naples Maine
28. Woodford State Park
Within the Green Mountain National Forest is another magnificent state park, Woodford. There are many of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming in this chilly, clear lake because it encircles Adams Reservoir.
At the ranger station, you can rent a kayak and enjoy a private early morning as the fog lifts from the lake and the sun dances on its placid waters.
On a hot summer day, you are going to enjoy the sandy beach and the area's numerous hiking paths while camping. Go to Woodford State Park if you want to unwind at a beautiful campground in Vermont.
Woodford is a rather large campsite with 76 tent and RV sites, 20 lean-tos, and 4 cabins. Pets are welcome in the campsite and on the campers' beach, but not on the sandy beach or inside the majority of the cottages.
The one exception is the Lady Slipper cottage. At the park, camping is permitted from Memorial Day Weekend until the second Monday in October.
29. Green Mountain National Forest Campgrounds
Situated in the heart of the Green Mountain National Forest, these campgrounds serve as more than simply a place to stay; they serve as doorsway to an amazing natural environment.
Encircled by soaring trees and soothed by bubbling streams, they establish a sanctuary that is among the most dreamy locations in Vermont to visit during the fall foliage season.
These campgrounds are kissed by the forest, which gives more than just a spot to relax; it also invites you to enter the magnificence of nature and become a part of its tale.
The tall trees take on the role of protectors, their branches reaching up to the sky and their leaves whispering with age-old wisdom.
30. Maple Grove Campground
Maple Grove Campground is calling you to experience a sight that is nothing short of magical as the sun slowly sets and the trees' emerald clothes surrender to the beat of nature.
Nestled amidst a maple forest, this campground serves as more than simply a spot to sleep; it's the ideal location in Vermont to witness the breathtaking fall colors.
Imagine the forest of trees changing from green to a concerto of reds, oranges, and yellows as their leaves fall. It's a transition that happens gradually and picturesquely.
Imagine the golden ball of light shining through the branches and giving the campsite a warm embrace.
Bottom Line
Are you prepared to head to Vermont and indulge in all the things you adore about New England summers? Our very favorite places to for family vacations are these state parks in Vermont.
Gather your swimwear and sunscreen, and get ready for some intense outdoor recreation.