The best camping near Emerald Lake State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Emerald Lake adventure.

100% (4 reviews)

Emerald Lake State Park: A Gem for Nature Lovers and Campers Alike.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Emerald Lake State Park

Book externally

Public campgrounds in the park
Book externally

Stay at a public campground in Emerald Lake State Park

100%

(4)

Emerald Campground

67 sites · RVs, Tents In Emerald Lake State Park

from

$20

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Emerald Lake State Park

100%

(253)

Grateful Acres Vermont

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Wilmington, VT

Learn more about this land:Welcome to Grateful Acres Vermont, a 420 friendly camping destination in the heart of the Green Mountains. We have space available for tents only. Kayaks available to rent for use at the reservoir located just up the road. WE ARE NOT A COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISE, just a family with some land in Vermont that we would.like to share. PLEASE OBSERVE THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT

100%

(47)

Endless Grove

1 site · Lodging11 acres · Poultney, VT

Endless Grove is an 11 acre property tucked directly between the Endless Brook Trailhead (Slate Valley Trails) and Lake St. Catherine State Park. The property is a mix of mature Hemlock, Pine, and Maple trees overlooking a large clean seasonal pond and meadow. Gravel cyclists and mountain bikers alike will find world class cycling right from the front door. The Deane/Osborne Preserve, less than mile away, offers superior hiking with panoramic views of the Adirondacks. Just a short walk away, Lake St. Catherine is a classic Vermont glacial lake offering excellent swimming, fishing, and boating. From this property, one can ride or hike all day, swim in a glacial lake, and end the day with a campfire, all without stepping foot in the car. It doesn't get more Vermont than this. Endless Grove is centrally located on a gravel road between Poultney, VT and Granville, NY. Check us out on instagram @endless_grove

Sunrise Farm

8 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Dover, VT

Voted 3rd in Vermont by Hip Camp 2022 6 Sites are on Sunrise Farms 75 acre Conservation land with 50 mile view for Sites 1 and 2. Very quiet area with lots of wildlife and ponds and disc golf. Very quiet with great swimming and lots of hikes right from your sites. 2 of the Brookside Sites (Wishbone Left and Right) are close by (2.7 miles) where we have another 1/2 mile of river frontage and can handle bigger groups as Conservation land on Sunrise Farm only allows 4 campers per site. Sunrise Farm Sites 1 and 2 have oodles of space and Spectacular 50 mile views of Mount Monadnock with no house lights out there in the evening except the party string lights we provide. Site 1 (with entrance 70 yards south of the farmhouse) is best for camping in with up to 20 foot trailers or multiple tents …on the large flat spaces in the 25 acre field to choose from. Great Well water available near farmhouse. Biodegradable soaps Only if used in the ponds. Double Olympic sized Swim Pond we stock with Rainbow Trout to keep clear. We have been advised Not to allow imported firewood (can import Wood Beetle dangerous for our forest). - PLEASE use the Firewood bundle tubs we provide ($11) - pick up at the farmhouse or pull wood from the woods (and make it safer for use). Beautiful and plenty of wildlife nearby... as well as Port a Potties are marked on Map we provide with solar lights marking them at night. Do Not Leave food out when camping or away from site. Bears are rarely seen but it is wild country. Sites have locking garbage lids. Unique and lovely as well as being next to trails and roads to miles of remote spots with very few if any ... people. In Winter we request only AWD vehicles go down to this site or park up by farmhouse and hike in so you can easily get out. When wet park up by the road if you have 2 wheel drive. Always WISE to arrive When LIGHT out as we do not live at the site and are not able to show guests to their sites as a result.

99%

(426)

Timbertrail Farm

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents145 acres · Shaftsbury, VT

Come see Lake Shaftsbury State Park! This 200 year old farm is at the top of a dead end road on 150 acres. It sits in a region of Bennington County formerly called Healing Springs Vermont. The springs that flow off of West Mountain come down through the farm and across Route 7 where they feed the picturesque state park! Arrive at our 150 acre property at the top of this dead-end road.. (Please stay left all the way up to the top...the road becomes our driveway).. Step out onto this 200-year-old farm at your own private site all of which are several acres each minimum.. Walk to streams ponds and Lake Shaftsbury State Park.

99%

(345)

Sweet Song Acres

4 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · NH

Sweet Song Acres is 100+ acres of secluded forest nestled along the Little Sugar River, at the base of Perry Mountain. Located in rural Unity, NH and Charlestown, NH, just across the Vermont state line. Southernmost point, located in Charlestown is one of two campsites. The other is Shady Grove, located in Unity. The two sites, located in bordering towns share the same entrance and are connected by a 1/4 mile trail. Both are very large sites. Campers would drive to both sites down a trail so we highly recommend a vehicle with decent clearance and 4WD or AWD. Southernmost Point is a fully drive-in site. Shady Grove campers park above the site and the campsite is down a short path, just a few hundred feet or so. The property consists of varied terrain of rock ledges, lush moss, streams, and panoramic views at the summit. There are many options of local outdoor activities in the area or if you prefer, just sit and "listen to the river sing sweet songs to rock your soul".

99%

(96)

Private campsites miles of trails!

26 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Adams, MA

Aisling Mountain Farm campgrounds are located in Adams MA, is directly connected to Mount Greylock state park and its miles of trails. We currently have four tent campsites throughout the year with one that will accommodate trailers up to 16' without backing up! Enjoy the view, our cascading waterfall brook, and spend some time with our horses. Please see our FB page at Aisling Mountain Farm for more info. SOLID SOUND FESTIVAL CAMPERS PLEASE MESSAGE US BEFORE YOU REQUEST. With the increased traffic for the event, we have changes to our venue. Aisling Mountain Farm event campgrounds are available for local events. Tent camping conveniently located close to North Adams and Mass MoCA, with direct access to Mount Greylock and miles of trails. Minutes from free parking with shuttle service to Mass MoCA festivals. On event weekends we will have fire pits located around the property for everyone's use. unfortunately for large events we will not be able to accommodate trailers or RV campers.

87%

(53)

Bent Apple Farm

5 sites · Lodging100 acres · Londonderry, VT

Often described as being the most relaxing, romantic, dreamy and unique farm you'll ever stay in!!! Bent apple farm is natures perfect scape, thanks to my husband and I efforts to create a sanctuary to share with others. From apple trees, beautiful pond and a rustic cabins. Our farm is at the edge of VT natural forest, with often gifts us the visit of wild deers, moose and turkeys. Our property has 5 cabins total that give a small little village feel to it, but spaced enough that each has its privacy. This quiet piece of heaven is our little treasure, built and cared by us to share with you. Instagram: @bentapplefarm You’ll need 4x4 car in the winter time.

99%

(236)

Green Mountain Trails

2 sites · Lodging600 acres · Pittsfield, VT

Hike or bike 2 miles into a completely secluded cabin on 600 acres with panoramic views of the Green Mountains. You’ll arrive to a cozy cabin that can comfortably sleep 2, or up to 4 if needed, equipped with a potbelly stove and basic cooking equipment.The mountain, once a source of wood for the Stanley Tool factory and a site for bridle trails in the summer and Nordic skiing in the winter, is now best known as a the birthplace of the Spartan Race and host of the infamous Death Races, as well being a popular mountain biking destination called the Green Mountain Trails. The trail system boasts 25 miles of flowy trails for all abilities as well as a stone staircase climbing from the base to the top of the trails at Shrek’s Stone Hut. Awake to an incredible sunrise and panoramic Green Mountain views after a night underneath a starry dome unblemished by city lights. Chilly evenings in the hut are easily tempered by a pot belly stove fed by seasoned wood. A built in bunk accommodates two people, but it’s possible to sleep up to four guests.

Booked 1 time

The Antoniello retreat

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Winhall, VT

Very private wooded area, very close to several ski areas, 2 miles from Stratton Mountain and the Appalachian Trail, one driveway space available that can accommodate a vehicle up to 18 feet in length, many small local markets and restaurants close by, excellent camping for offgrid. We are cigarette smoker friendly as well as pet and marijuana friendly.

99%

(112)

Hartshorn Hideaway

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Arlington, VT

This cabin has been in my family for over 20 years. When my sister purchased this cabin it was in rough shape, with a tar paper roof and a single bunk that was falling down. With help from our father's sawmill, and helping hands of friends and family, we were able to rebuild from the ground up. Ever since then, this cabin has been making memories for our family and friends. We hope whoever gets to experience our little piece of VT will also make great memories here. This cozy family owned cabin located in the town of Sunderland, Vermont. Surrounded by hundreds of acres of national forest, campers can enjoy the sounds of a swift stream flowing nearby, birds chirping in trees, and the rustling of leaves and branches in the breeze. This mountainous area has a rich array of wildlife, meadows, trails, and only a few miles away from the Battenkill River, a tributary of the Hudson River of New York. Once inside you’ll find a small kitchen and dining area complete with a wood burning stove for those cool Vermont nights. The sleeping area offers four generously-sized bunks, a loft area, and a queen futon. Enjoy the peace of nature with a cup of coffee on the porch, but don’t forget to cap off the night with smores around the fire pit! Access to Vermont’s Long Trail System is nearby, with its 272 mile footpath and 166miles of side trails. This offers endless hiking opportunities for the day-hiker, weekend overnighter and extended backpacker. The Long Trail follows the main ridge of the Green Mountains from the Massachusetts-Vermont state line to the Canadian border, crossing Vermont’s highest peaks. As for the daily adventures, take a drive to surrounding ski resorts, including Bromley Mountain being just 15 miles from the property, where you can enjoy various activities year-round. Take a 10 minute drive to visit Mount Equinox Skyline drive where you’ll take in incredible views. Just past Mount Equinox is The Village of Manchester, which is home to the famed Equinox Resort and Spa. In Manchester, guests can enjoy everything from shopping & dining to outdoor classes for ATV driving and fly fishing!

100%

(13)

The TrailHouse

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents38 acres · Poultney, VT

Historic, quintessential VT farmstead on 38 private acres at the end of a quiet dirt road. The Slate Valley Trails pass through our property - providing direct access to 50+miles of world-class mountain biking and hiking trails. We are located mid-point in the network at a perfect jumping off point for adventure. There are also miles and miles of quiet dirt roads and abandoned forest tracks in the area, offering near endless opportunities for gravel cycling adventures. The property features perennial gardens, a pond, open meadows, forestland, and picturesque southerly views from the top of the north meadow. The tent, van and glamping sites are thoughtfully located in protected nooks in the forestland and along the forest's edge. We have hot outdoor showers (3) and a handmade wooden building that houses our portable toilets. There is also a communal fire pit.

97%

(134)

Runamuk Farm

5 sites · Lodging40 acres · Cambridge, NY

Picturesque location on farmland with views of the mountains. We are a micro-farm. Go for a short hike on the property, get to know the animals watch the sunset most of the summer. We are located 35 minutes from Saratoga Springs and Lake George, NY, and 45 minutes from Dorset and Manchester, VT. Hike the Adirondack or Green Mountains, paddle the streams or go to a nearby small city for a play, a festival, or a concert. There is a long list of things to do and see within an hour of our tent.

The best camping near Emerald Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

Emerald Lake State Park is conveniently located between Manchester and Rutland, just a stone’s throw from Route 7. The lake is aptly-named for its water’s greenish birds-eye hue. The 20-acre lake is limited to non-motorized watercraft, providing superb swimming, paddling and fishing. Boat rentals are available for your ‘yakin satisfaction. The sandy shores are adjacent to picnic tables, a concession stand, a playground and even a nature center. Peeps can take refuge from the noonday sun in the park’s ample wooded campground or many lean-tos which are divided into two types: “prime” and, well...regular. Take your pick (they all have cute tree names, though).

The lake is a favorite oasis for Appalachian and Long Trail hikers. And for the day-trotters, there are plenty of trails within the park’s 430 acres. On your jaunt, you might even stumble upon the North Dorset Cemetery, located on the hill overlooking the park’s contact station and parking lot. Fun fact: many of the headstones in the cemetery are made from local marble, extracted from the quarries that once stippled the hillsides.

Notable campgrounds

Emerald Lake Campground - Offers a serene camping experience with easy access to the lake's pristine waters.
Lakeside Campsites - Ideal for those who love to wake up to the sound of gentle waves and enjoy quick dips.
Forest Campsites - Tucked away amid towering trees, these sites are perfect for privacy and shade lovers.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, especially during peak summer months when the park is most popular.
Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies; last-minute openings can be your opportunity to reserve a prime site.
Explore nearby camping options if the park's campgrounds are fully booked to still enjoy the area's natural splendor.

When to go

The best time to visit Emerald Lake State Park is during the summer and early fall, when the weather is warm and the park is fully operational. Spring can be wet and muddy, while winter brings snow and limited access. Plan your trip from late May to early October for the ideal experience.

Know before you go

Check the park's operating schedule as it varies seasonally, with full services available from late spring to early fall.
Be prepared for varying weather conditions and pack accordingly for your outdoor adventures.
Review the park's safety guidelines, especially if you plan to engage in water activities or hiking.
Accessibility options are available; contact the park in advance for specific needs.
Day-use amenities include picnic areas and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit.