Camping in Vermont: Best Vermont Campgrounds 2023

Q: Where can I camp for free in Vermont?

In Vermont , you can find free camping in the Green Mountain National Forest . Dispersed camping is allowed in most areas of the forest, but it's important to follow Leave No Trace principles and be aware of any specific regulations. For more information about camping in Vermont , you can explore Hipcamp.

Q: Is it legal to camp anywhere in Vermont?

In Vermont , you cannot camp anywhere, but there are designated areas where you can camp legally. Dispersed or wild camping is allowed in Vermont 's Green Mountain National Forest , as long as you follow the rules and regulations. You must camp at least 200 feet away from trails, roads, and water sources. Additionally, there are numerous designated campgrounds, both public and private, throughout Vermont . You can find a variety of camping options on Hipcamp, including tent camping, RV parks, and unique accommodations like cabins and yurts.

Q: What state has the longest fall foliage?

Pennsylvania , Vermont , and Maine are known for having the longest fall foliage seasons in the United States, typically from mid-September through October. This is due to their diverse ranges of tree species and northern latitude. Check out the Hipcamp fall foliage prediction map to know exactly when to plan your fall foliage getaway to these northeastern states.

United States
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Vermont

97% (8098 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Vermont

Top camping destinations

Green Mountain National Forest

1468 campgrounds

Silver Lake State Park

1317 campgrounds

Smugglers' Notch State Park

1131 campgrounds

Brighton State Park

1065 campgrounds

12 top campgrounds in Vermont

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Arbuckle Acres Family Farm - fields and forest

6 sites · Tents125 acres · Braintree, Orange

Arbuckle Acres has been in the Arbuckle Family since the 1950s. There are 125 acres on Braintree Hill Road with absolutely stunning views of the Green Mountains. It's a family farm with goats, chickens. cows and honey bees. The farmstand will include vegetables, maple syrup and honey when available. Bent Hill Brewery, hiking, biking, swimming holes are all within minutes. The local park has a swimming hole, disc golf, and musical instruments. The City of Randolph has a Farmer's Market on Saturday and lots of cute shops and restaurants in the downtown area.Learn more about this land:Pitch a tent at Arbuckle Acres Family Farm in Central Vermont near a seasonal brook, in the forest or the top of the field to get the best view of the Green Mountains. Near the VAST trails, hiking, biking, Bent Hill Brewery, and Alis State Park. Enjoy the cows, goats, and chickens too. The local park features disc golf and a cool dip in the White River. It’s primitive camping, but so worth it when you look up at the star studded night sky. Remember to bring your portable camping potty!

Old Moose Farm

9 sites · RVs, Tents43 acres · Lemington, Essex

An Overlanders, and Camper Van Enthusiasts Paradise! Enjoy beautiful views and the majestic wilderness of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom. Situated at the top of Todd Hill, the property includes a pond, apple orchard, and Christmas Tree Farm. There are several different sites at the Old Moose Farm ranging from inside the cozy apple orchard, to the top of Crom's Peak with it's 270° views of the Connecticut River Valley and the North East Kingdom of Vermont. There's also plenty of open space for those who would like to pick their own spot, message me for details. On a clear day you can see Vermont, New Hampshire, Canada, and even Maine! In my 40 plus acres of Christmas Trees and Apple Orchards you will feel at one with nature while also only being 3 miles from one of New England's finest microbreweries and all the ATV and hiking trails you can handle. The Property features several camping sites perfect for classic tent campers, smaller travel trailers and micro campers, and backpacking adventurers. Located 10 minutes from Colebrook NH and 30 minutes from Pittsburgh NH. The Great North woods of NH is also accessible from The Old Moose Farm.

Fair Valley Camping

10 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Orange

You will be camping on the grounds of the Tunbridge World's Fair, there are multiple spaces for all sizes of RV's with electrical hookups and water with easy access and parking. Restrooms and showers available. Beautiful site with the First Branch of the White River passing through and 2 covered bridges within walking distance. Half mile dirt track for running or biking. Your site may be adjusted to better accommodate you depending on whatever else may be going on at the grounds, this will be discussed when you book.

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The TrailHouse

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents38 acres · Poultney, Rutland

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

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Arbuckle Acres Family Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents126 acres · Braintree, Orange

This 126 acre farm has been in the Arbuckle Family since the 1950's. Come and set up your tent near the seasonal creek or at the top of the field and see an incredible sunset over the Green Mountains Come and help us feed the animals. We have farm fresh eggs, honey, maple syrup, and fresh garden vegetables for sale.Learn more about this land:Come camp on our family farm and see the best view of the sunset on the Green Mountains in Central Vermont. We have 6 sites for tents. You can choose the woods or the fields. RV's or trailers are permitted when the ground is dry. Contact us for more info Come meet the goats, cows and chickens. Bring your mountain bike and check out the trails. Tube down the river and explore the town of Randolph.

Star Hosts in Vermont

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Old Moose Farm

9 sites · RVs, Tents43 acres · Lemington, Essex

An Overlanders, and Camper Van Enthusiasts Paradise! Enjoy beautiful views and the majestic wilderness of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom. Situated at the top of Todd Hill, the property includes a pond, apple orchard, and Christmas Tree Farm. There are several different sites at the Old Moose Farm ranging from inside the cozy apple orchard, to the top of Crom's Peak with it's 270° views of the Connecticut River Valley and the North East Kingdom of Vermont. There's also plenty of open space for those who would like to pick their own spot, message me for details. On a clear day you can see Vermont, New Hampshire, Canada, and even Maine! In my 40 plus acres of Christmas Trees and Apple Orchards you will feel at one with nature while also only being 3 miles from one of New England's finest microbreweries and all the ATV and hiking trails you can handle. The Property features several camping sites perfect for classic tent campers, smaller travel trailers and micro campers, and backpacking adventurers. Located 10 minutes from Colebrook NH and 30 minutes from Pittsburgh NH. The Great North woods of NH is also accessible from The Old Moose Farm.

Black Creek Maple Off Grid Camp

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Cambridge, Lamoille

Pitch your tent nestled along the edge of lush green forestry, surrounded in nature! Gorgeous views and the smell of the fresh Vermont air will amaze you. Start your day making coffee on the fire, sitting listening to the birds and watching the deer nibbling the grass. We welcome avid year round outdoors people to explore this land. Whether you love snow shoeing, hiking, biking or just sitting, spending evenings around the camp fire. Our family has the perfect getaway for your stay in a tent, cabin or camper. During July and August the wild raspberries and blackberries make a wonderful treat. Try your culinary skills over the campfire while the children play and explore nature. As night falls, a campfire with smores hosts a wonderful end to the days fun. Afterwards, tuck the children in and listen to the night sounds under the stars! Your site is only 1/4 mile from "The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail" used year round as recreational fun for biking and also part of the VAST system for snow mobiles. Only ten minutes to restaurants, shops, zip line, bike rentals, swimming, kayaking, fishing, ski, attractions and more! We are located, so close to the ski resorts and resort villages. Also, less than thirty minutes from the Canadian border! Each site is provided 5 gallons of clean well water, (more available for an up charge). Don't forget to check out the many extras available. Get back to basics and enjoy all that nature has to offer and create your own lasting memories!

Mount Norris Scout Reservation

16 sites · Lodging, Tents1000 acres · Lowell, Lamoille

The pristine mountain trails and and panoramic views of Lake Eden beckon adventurers of all ages and abilities to enjoy year-round visits to Mount Norris Scout Reservation. With 1,000 acres of wilderness terrain, a dozen secluded campsites and numerous cabins, lean-tos and shelters to suit your needs, Mt. Norris is big enough for any private event but perfect for your family or group. Ascend the 1,482-foot vertical 5-mile round trail to the summit of Mt. Norris or carve your own path in snow shoes or cross country skis to the shores of Lake Eden. We have 75 years of experience helping introduce families to the outdoors. Let us know how we can make your next experience unforgettable! Mt. Norris is a strictly substance-free facility. Thank you for helping us maintain a tranquil environment for our guests.

Fair Valley Camping

10 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Orange

You will be camping on the grounds of the Tunbridge World's Fair, there are multiple spaces for all sizes of RV's with electrical hookups and water with easy access and parking. Restrooms and showers available. Beautiful site with the First Branch of the White River passing through and 2 covered bridges within walking distance. Half mile dirt track for running or biking. Your site may be adjusted to better accommodate you depending on whatever else may be going on at the grounds, this will be discussed when you book.

Feel Good Farm

9 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · Wolcott, Lamoille

This 150-acre property has been in our family for 30 years and now houses three generations. Built in 1900 it was a traditional dairy farm until the 50's and 60's when potatoes were planted on the fields for the Boston and New York markets. By the 70's and 80's it became a gentleman's farm for a retired couple from New York City and the dairy farmers nearby hayed the fields. When we purchased the property in 1993 we continued offering the hay, built greenhouses, planted vegetable and flower gardens, ran a traditional Bed and Breakfast, now airbnb. We leased some of the fields to a local organic seed company for 13 years until they purchased their own property. The farm remains certified organic and is still being hayed by a local dairy farm, the gardens are community managed using regenerative and sustainable practices when ever possible. This year in the commercial garden, seed crops will be planted once again. Much of the cultivated agricultural land is protected under the Vermont Land Trust, to ensure that it remains used for agricultural purposes. We love to share our farm and forest with others. In addition to our very intentional farming operations, you can find wild edibles tucked away on forest trails. Wildlife and wildflowers abound. Views and sunsets. Check out the 968 acre wildlife management area that abuts the property. Plenty of trails through the woods leading to Wolcott Pond and hidden beaver huts and dams. Children 16 and under no charge but before booking please contact us to let us know how many children and we'll send a discount code. so you won't be charged when indicating number of people in your party. Our little pond behind the big greenhouse has filled up a bit more this spring which you are welcome to use for dipping or frog watching. Starting in June the outdoor kitchen and sun showers will be available for guests use. We can host large parties with advance notice.

Under $50

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Feel Good Farm

9 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · Wolcott, Lamoille

This 150-acre property has been in our family for 30 years and now houses three generations. Built in 1900 it was a traditional dairy farm until the 50's and 60's when potatoes were planted on the fields for the Boston and New York markets. By the 70's and 80's it became a gentleman's farm for a retired couple from New York City and the dairy farmers nearby hayed the fields. When we purchased the property in 1993 we continued offering the hay, built greenhouses, planted vegetable and flower gardens, ran a traditional Bed and Breakfast, now airbnb. We leased some of the fields to a local organic seed company for 13 years until they purchased their own property. The farm remains certified organic and is still being hayed by a local dairy farm, the gardens are community managed using regenerative and sustainable practices when ever possible. This year in the commercial garden, seed crops will be planted once again. Much of the cultivated agricultural land is protected under the Vermont Land Trust, to ensure that it remains used for agricultural purposes. We love to share our farm and forest with others. In addition to our very intentional farming operations, you can find wild edibles tucked away on forest trails. Wildlife and wildflowers abound. Views and sunsets. Check out the 968 acre wildlife management area that abuts the property. Plenty of trails through the woods leading to Wolcott Pond and hidden beaver huts and dams. Children 16 and under no charge but before booking please contact us to let us know how many children and we'll send a discount code. so you won't be charged when indicating number of people in your party. Our little pond behind the big greenhouse has filled up a bit more this spring which you are welcome to use for dipping or frog watching. Starting in June the outdoor kitchen and sun showers will be available for guests use. We can host large parties with advance notice.

Mount Norris Scout Reservation

16 sites · Lodging, Tents1000 acres · Lowell, Lamoille

The pristine mountain trails and and panoramic views of Lake Eden beckon adventurers of all ages and abilities to enjoy year-round visits to Mount Norris Scout Reservation. With 1,000 acres of wilderness terrain, a dozen secluded campsites and numerous cabins, lean-tos and shelters to suit your needs, Mt. Norris is big enough for any private event but perfect for your family or group. Ascend the 1,482-foot vertical 5-mile round trail to the summit of Mt. Norris or carve your own path in snow shoes or cross country skis to the shores of Lake Eden. We have 75 years of experience helping introduce families to the outdoors. Let us know how we can make your next experience unforgettable! Mt. Norris is a strictly substance-free facility. Thank you for helping us maintain a tranquil environment for our guests.

Fair Valley Camping

10 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Orange

You will be camping on the grounds of the Tunbridge World's Fair, there are multiple spaces for all sizes of RV's with electrical hookups and water with easy access and parking. Restrooms and showers available. Beautiful site with the First Branch of the White River passing through and 2 covered bridges within walking distance. Half mile dirt track for running or biking. Your site may be adjusted to better accommodate you depending on whatever else may be going on at the grounds, this will be discussed when you book.

Old Moose Farm

9 sites · RVs, Tents43 acres · Lemington, Essex

An Overlanders, and Camper Van Enthusiasts Paradise! Enjoy beautiful views and the majestic wilderness of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom. Situated at the top of Todd Hill, the property includes a pond, apple orchard, and Christmas Tree Farm. There are several different sites at the Old Moose Farm ranging from inside the cozy apple orchard, to the top of Crom's Peak with it's 270° views of the Connecticut River Valley and the North East Kingdom of Vermont. There's also plenty of open space for those who would like to pick their own spot, message me for details. On a clear day you can see Vermont, New Hampshire, Canada, and even Maine! In my 40 plus acres of Christmas Trees and Apple Orchards you will feel at one with nature while also only being 3 miles from one of New England's finest microbreweries and all the ATV and hiking trails you can handle. The Property features several camping sites perfect for classic tent campers, smaller travel trailers and micro campers, and backpacking adventurers. Located 10 minutes from Colebrook NH and 30 minutes from Pittsburgh NH. The Great North woods of NH is also accessible from The Old Moose Farm.

Black Creek Maple Off Grid Camp

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Cambridge, Lamoille

Pitch your tent nestled along the edge of lush green forestry, surrounded in nature! Gorgeous views and the smell of the fresh Vermont air will amaze you. Start your day making coffee on the fire, sitting listening to the birds and watching the deer nibbling the grass. We welcome avid year round outdoors people to explore this land. Whether you love snow shoeing, hiking, biking or just sitting, spending evenings around the camp fire. Our family has the perfect getaway for your stay in a tent, cabin or camper. During July and August the wild raspberries and blackberries make a wonderful treat. Try your culinary skills over the campfire while the children play and explore nature. As night falls, a campfire with smores hosts a wonderful end to the days fun. Afterwards, tuck the children in and listen to the night sounds under the stars! Your site is only 1/4 mile from "The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail" used year round as recreational fun for biking and also part of the VAST system for snow mobiles. Only ten minutes to restaurants, shops, zip line, bike rentals, swimming, kayaking, fishing, ski, attractions and more! We are located, so close to the ski resorts and resort villages. Also, less than thirty minutes from the Canadian border! Each site is provided 5 gallons of clean well water, (more available for an up charge). Don't forget to check out the many extras available. Get back to basics and enjoy all that nature has to offer and create your own lasting memories!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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(29)

Green Mountain National Forest

Arlington, Vermont

The best sunsets over the Adirondacks - The beach at Button Bay Campground.

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(5)

Button Bay State Park

East Middlebury, Vermont

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(3)

Burton Island State Park

Adirondack State Park

Long Lake, New York

Camp Plymouth State Park

Ludlow, Vermont

Allis State Park

Williamstown, Vermont

Camping in Vermont guide

Known for its colorful fall foliage, wilderness lakes, and scenic camping areas, Vermont is an outdoor lover's playground. From camping, hiking, fishing, and boating in summer to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and downhill skiing in winter, the state has something for every kind of adventure traveler. Here you'll find over 50 state parks, a vast network of trails including portions of the Appalachian Trail, and 400,000 acres of protected lands in the Green Mountain National Forest. Choose from hundreds of camping sites to pitch a tent, park an RV, or book a backcountry cabin.

Where to Go

Lake Champlain

Often referred to as the sixth Great Lake, Lake Champlain is a huge freshwater lake flanked by the Green Mountains and the Adriondacks. Nearly half of the lake is in Vermont, parts of it are also in New York and Quebec, and it's known for boating, sea kayaking, swimming, and an array of camping experiences. Campers will find a variety of options near Lake Champlain from RV sites with full hookups and dump stations, and glamping sites near Burlington and St. Alban, to state parks with tent sites right on the lakeshore of Grand Isle and Burton Island.

The Northeast Kingdom

The northeast corner of Vermont is the state's wildest and most remote region, filled with world-class mountain biking trails and challenging hiking trails. Several state parks dot the area, including some with the northeast's most charming campgrounds: Brighton State Park, where you'll find lakeside camping and waterfront cabins, and Maidstone State Park, a favorite among fishermen.

Green Mountain National Forest

Featuring rolling hills of dense forest and some of the best fall foliage shows in the northeast, Green Mountain National Forest is one of Vermont's top outdoor destinations. Hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing weave through the Green Mountains along with nearly a dozen national forest campgrounds and day-use areas.

When to Go

Summer is the best time for camping, hiking, kayaking, and paddling in Vermont. Most Vermont state parks are open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, although some parks are open through the second Monday in October and others open earlier and stay open later. Fall is especially lovely, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow—catch the show in late September in the northern part of the state or mid-October in the south. Ski season typically runs from December through March.

Know Before You Go

Vermont State Park reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. Reservations can be made online, by calling the state park's reservations center, or by calling the park directly (during open season).
Many Vermont State Parks have "lean-to" campsites featuring a 3-sided structure that can shelter campers from wind and help keep gear dry. Some campers set up tents inside the lean-to, and others just use it for cooking and staying dry.
Some Green Mountain National Forest and Groton State Forest campgrounds can be reserved ahead of time online. Plenty of first-come, first-served campsites are also available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Vermont is an excellent destination for camping. The state offers a variety of camping experiences, from remote backcountry sites to well-maintained campgrounds in state parks. Vermont's picturesque landscape, with its lush forests, rolling hills, and charming small towns, provides a perfect backdrop for a memorable camping trip. Some popular camping destinations in Vermont include Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont Tent Camping, and Vermont Open Fields or Forest Camping. Camping in Vermont is ideal during the summer and fall months when the weather is mild and the foliage is vibrant. Winter camping is also possible, but it requires proper gear and preparation for the cold and snowy conditions.

In Vermont, you can find free camping in the Green Mountain National Forest. Dispersed camping is allowed in most areas of the forest, but it's important to follow Leave No Trace principles and be aware of any specific regulations. For more information about camping in Vermont, you can explore Hipcamp.

In Vermont, you cannot camp anywhere, but there are designated areas where you can camp legally. Dispersed or wild camping is allowed in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest, as long as you follow the rules and regulations. You must camp at least 200 feet away from trails, roads, and water sources. Additionally, there are numerous designated campgrounds, both public and private, throughout Vermont. You can find a variety of camping options on Hipcamp, including tent camping, RV parks, and unique accommodations like cabins and yurts.

Boondocking, also known as dispersed camping or dry camping, is legal in Vermont on public lands like national forests and some state forests, where you can camp for free without amenities. In the Green Mountain National Forest, there are designated areas for dispersed camping, and you can find more information about these locations on the Green Mountain National Forest website. Make sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and any posted regulations when boondocking in Vermont. Additionally, you can find private land options for boondocking on Hipcamp.

Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Maine are known for having the longest fall foliage seasons in the United States, typically from mid-September through October. This is due to their diverse ranges of tree species and northern latitude. Check out the Hipcamp fall foliage prediction map to know exactly when to plan your fall foliage getaway to these northeastern states.