The best family-friendly glamping near Rochester, Vermont

Rochester is a small town in central Vermont situated at the base of the Green Mountains. The White River flows right through town, as it makes its way to the Connecticut River as its longest undammed tributary. Despite its small population, Rochester has a thriving arts and culture scene with several galleries, frequent festivals and concerts, and a theatre company. Rochester’s proximity to camping, hiking, and biking trails in the Green Mountain National Forest and several ski areas makes it a great basecamp for outdoor adventures.

96% (610)

Top-rated campgrounds

Rochester is a small town in central Vermont situated at the base of the Green Mountains. The White River flows right through town, as it makes its way to the Connecticut River as its longest undammed tributary. Despite its small population, Rochester has a thriving arts and culture scene with several galleries, frequent festivals and concerts, and a theatre company. Rochester’s proximity to camping, hiking, and biking trails in the Green Mountain National Forest and several ski areas makes it a great basecamp for outdoor adventures.

96% (610)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Know Town

99%

(72)

10mi from Rochester · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Stockbridge, VT

A quiet, beautiful, private setting with brook side camping, and glamping! Located three miles up on Stoney Brook road, with a beautiful stretch of the brook passing through the property. Currently in the winter months, we hope to provide a little “Snow Town” in Known Town. For the hardy winter campers and Van Folk, we have our 30 foot diameter Geodesic dome, and/or park and plug in options. In addition to being close to several major winter resorts, we have started our own private trail system for various levels of back country skiing, and snow shoeing. Know Town welcomes well mannered dogs (2 per site). We are 420 friendly and geared towards hosting those interested in arts, music, meditation, and ecology. Also, it should be noted that there is currently no Wi-Fi or cell service. Please be aware that Vermont prohibits out-of-state Firewood. We sell firewood for dome and campfires, and guests are welcome to scavenge the plethora of downed dead wood on the property.

2. Streeter Mountain Farm

97%

(425)

44mi from Rochester · 46 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · NH

Streeter Mountain Farm is a recreation destination and permaculture farm nestled in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. We offer a variety of lodging options ranging in cost from tent camping and shared bunk rooms to private indoor lofts, tiny homes, and school buses. Streeter Mountain is a retreat destination for mountain biking, skiing, and hiking. Our onsite trails feature hand and machine-built features for riders of all skill levels. Under an hour of driving will get you to Mt. Moosilauke on the Appalachian Trail, renowned climbing at the Rumney Crags, and dozens of pristine NH lakes. Back on the farm, our swimming holes, hammocks, and communal fire pit offer peace and community connection after a full day of outdoor adventures. Guests are encouraged to recreate and restore amidst the natural beauty of our rural property, and explore our orchards and vegetable gardens. Quiet hours after 10pm please! 603-786-2366 No sewer hookups. Secluded spots for vehicles require high clearance and dry conditions.

3. Willoughby Farm Animal Rescue

95%

(222)

30mi from Rochester · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fairlee, VT

We are a 107-acre forest and farm animal rescue. Sleep with the sheep, alpacas, donkeys, and potbellied pigs when you pitch your tent or park your camper on our Vermont Farm! ** All sites have a 2-night minimum on WEEKENDS. ** Reserve the group site and sleep in the middle of the action! (You do not need a "group" to reserve the group site -- it is just our biggest site and can accommodate groups!). Co-located sites share a community fire ring, so it's a great way to meet and make new friends! Don't have a tent or RV? Spend a magical night in "The Greenhouse" (it's a real, working greenhouse that doubles as accommodations for those looking for a more "glamping" experience). Want a little privacy? Reserve one of our two tricked-out Tent Deck sites (Buddha North and Grandmother Pine), each with its own picnic table, private fire ring, and commercial-grade park grill. Nestled discretely in the forest adjacent to the area where the animals are, you will feel like you are in the middle of nowhere even though you are less than a 5-minute walk from your car! Looking for something a bit more remote and spectacular? Hike a half-mile to the Big Sky Tent Deck. An incredible vista awaits you for a little effort! Need gear? We have it for rent, from cast iron grill baskets and griddles to make cooking over a charcoal grill a breeze, to tents, propane stoves, and water containers. We even have an Anker Portable Power Station and Portable Kerosene Heater for rent! Need Supplies? Charcoal? Propane? We've got it. ----- We are a small non-profit (501c3). When you stay with us, rent equipment from us, or take a tour with us, 100% of the money you pay goes directly for the care and feeding of the rescue animals. Thanks for supporting us in making a difference in the lives of neglected, abused, and abandoned farm animals! ----- 2026 CAMP FOR FREE WEEKENDS: MAY 8-10 AND SEPT 18-20 Come for the weekend and make a difference in the lives of the Rescues. Just (1) message us that you are interested with your email OR (2) sign up on the event page on our Facebook profile. ----- CHECK-IN TIME: 3:00 p.m.—7:00 p.m. Please arrive within this time window. If absolutely necessary, you may purchase a check-in extension for $15 in advance or $30 on arrival.

4. Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks

89%

(41)

46mi from Rochester · 122 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · North Hudson, NY

Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks combines the sweet nostalgia of classic campground fun with modern amenities and conveniences. As you roll your RV or family vehicle onto the grounds, you’ll take in your forested surroundings, a myriad of family-friendly activities, and a peek of the Schroon River that leads down to Schroon Lake. Pull in to your full hook-up site, deluxe cabin, or cozy yurt to begin your outdoor adventure! Our family-friendly amenities abound! Two swimming pools and waterslide; gaga ball; multiple playgrounds; gem mining; mini golf; a play house; pedal bike rentals; a spacious rec hall stocked with arts and crafts and arcade games; lazy river tubing; a riverside beach area and more – young campers will have endless options to choose from at Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks. A fully-stocked camp store, large laundry facility, and parkwide WiFi bring some creature comforts to your camp site.

5. Forest Echo Cabins

99%

(74)

29mi from Rochester · 3 sites · Lodging · Mt. Holly, VT

Rustic and Comfortable Cabins. No power lines cross our property. We have no blaring screens to distract us from the sound of the wind in the leaves or to call us back to the whirl of modern life. But that does not mean we are without any comforts. Each cabin has a fully equipped kitchen, hot and cold running spring water, indoor bathroom, and overhead LP gas lamps. Nestled in the forest at meadow's edge, Cold Spring Cabin has an outdoor shower and indoor tub. Perched on a hill near the Farm Pond, Ripley Hill Cabin has an indoor shower and tub. The cabins are rustic, but clean and airy. The luxuries at Forest Echo Farm are not inside the cabins; they are found in the light that fills the forest in late afternoon, the silence of an evening canoe and the moonlit sparkle of dewdrops at midnight. Forest Echo Farm includes 360 acres, extensive shore to a 26-acre protected pond, numerous trails, and half a mountain. The Farm Pond offers a refreshing ‘dip’ to cool off. A hike from each cabin leads to Tiny Pond, an unspoiled lake where canoe, kayak and raft are available for shared use. Hiking trails are on the property. In addition to local trails, the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail are nearby. The surrounding area is chock full of restaurants, antique stores, country stores, bakeries, farm stands, farmers markets, general shopping, historic sites, hiking, swimming holes and scenic drives. Preserving and Sharing the Land. Forest Echo Farm is owned by a cooperative group of families and individuals who are committed to the values of simple living and the preservation of our environment. Forest Echo cabins offer a relaxing retreat where you can unplug and reconnect. The Forest Echo Farm community is dedicated to preserving our land, maintaining a balance between our human presence and the natural character of the forest, lakes, and mountains. Through the Vermont Land Trust, we have set aside 80% of our land to ensure that it will never be developed.

6. Huntress Haven Farm

100%

(28)

20mi from Rochester · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Chelsea, VT

Huntress Haven Farm is located in the scenic valley of the First Branch of the White River. One of the main attractions to the farm is the dairy goat herd (kids of all ages LOVE them) Because of the livestock we cannot allow dogs. In addition, we have farm dogs on the property; the dogs are very friendly, but they are also protective of the livestock. Guests have lots of fun access to the animals and are welcome to participate in milking and chores. There are many foraging opportunities year-round. Our sites are located along the beautiful South Washington Creek. Free wi-fi is provided.

7. Anderson-Key Farm

100%

(37)

18mi from Rochester · 3 sites · Lodging · Sharon, VT

You want to stay here!! Beautiful 20 acre farm perfectly located in the Green Mountains of Vermont. Barn complete with Coffee Bar, Electricity and additional camping supplies. Great spot for groups! Farm boasts of small pond, Elmer’s Brook, hiking and walking trails all in a secluded paradise. Disc Golf, Bocce Ball and Croquet sets available for you to enjoy! We want you to have a blast while you’re here. Located only 2 miles off the interstate. Book the farm including The Vermont Suite for a wonderful group experience. https://airbnb.com/h/vermont-suite-anderson-key-farm *20 minutes to Woodstock, VT (Billings Farm, Shopping, Dining, Hiking, Golf, Spa, Skiing and much more) *25 minutes to Silver Lake State Park (rent boats, kayaks and paddle boards) *20 minutes to King Arthur Flour a short distance to dozens of restaurants, activities and experiences.

Camper favorites near Rochester

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks

89%

(41)

46mi from Rochester · 122 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · North Hudson, NY

Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks combines the sweet nostalgia of classic campground fun with modern amenities and conveniences. As you roll your RV or family vehicle onto the grounds, you’ll take in your forested surroundings, a myriad of family-friendly activities, and a peek of the Schroon River that leads down to Schroon Lake. Pull in to your full hook-up site, deluxe cabin, or cozy yurt to begin your outdoor adventure! Our family-friendly amenities abound! Two swimming pools and waterslide; gaga ball; multiple playgrounds; gem mining; mini golf; a play house; pedal bike rentals; a spacious rec hall stocked with arts and crafts and arcade games; lazy river tubing; a riverside beach area and more – young campers will have endless options to choose from at Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks. A fully-stocked camp store, large laundry facility, and parkwide WiFi bring some creature comforts to your camp site.

Forest Echo Cabins

99%

(74)

29mi from Rochester · 3 sites · Lodging · Mt. Holly, VT

Rustic and Comfortable Cabins. No power lines cross our property. We have no blaring screens to distract us from the sound of the wind in the leaves or to call us back to the whirl of modern life. But that does not mean we are without any comforts. Each cabin has a fully equipped kitchen, hot and cold running spring water, indoor bathroom, and overhead LP gas lamps. Nestled in the forest at meadow's edge, Cold Spring Cabin has an outdoor shower and indoor tub. Perched on a hill near the Farm Pond, Ripley Hill Cabin has an indoor shower and tub. The cabins are rustic, but clean and airy. The luxuries at Forest Echo Farm are not inside the cabins; they are found in the light that fills the forest in late afternoon, the silence of an evening canoe and the moonlit sparkle of dewdrops at midnight. Forest Echo Farm includes 360 acres, extensive shore to a 26-acre protected pond, numerous trails, and half a mountain. The Farm Pond offers a refreshing ‘dip’ to cool off. A hike from each cabin leads to Tiny Pond, an unspoiled lake where canoe, kayak and raft are available for shared use. Hiking trails are on the property. In addition to local trails, the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail are nearby. The surrounding area is chock full of restaurants, antique stores, country stores, bakeries, farm stands, farmers markets, general shopping, historic sites, hiking, swimming holes and scenic drives. Preserving and Sharing the Land. Forest Echo Farm is owned by a cooperative group of families and individuals who are committed to the values of simple living and the preservation of our environment. Forest Echo cabins offer a relaxing retreat where you can unplug and reconnect. The Forest Echo Farm community is dedicated to preserving our land, maintaining a balance between our human presence and the natural character of the forest, lakes, and mountains. Through the Vermont Land Trust, we have set aside 80% of our land to ensure that it will never be developed.

Huntress Haven Farm

100%

(28)

20mi from Rochester · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Chelsea, VT

Huntress Haven Farm is located in the scenic valley of the First Branch of the White River. One of the main attractions to the farm is the dairy goat herd (kids of all ages LOVE them) Because of the livestock we cannot allow dogs. In addition, we have farm dogs on the property; the dogs are very friendly, but they are also protective of the livestock. Guests have lots of fun access to the animals and are welcome to participate in milking and chores. There are many foraging opportunities year-round. Our sites are located along the beautiful South Washington Creek. Free wi-fi is provided.

Anderson-Key Farm

100%

(37)

18mi from Rochester · 3 sites · Lodging · Sharon, VT

You want to stay here!! Beautiful 20 acre farm perfectly located in the Green Mountains of Vermont. Barn complete with Coffee Bar, Electricity and additional camping supplies. Great spot for groups! Farm boasts of small pond, Elmer’s Brook, hiking and walking trails all in a secluded paradise. Disc Golf, Bocce Ball and Croquet sets available for you to enjoy! We want you to have a blast while you’re here. Located only 2 miles off the interstate. Book the farm including The Vermont Suite for a wonderful group experience. https://airbnb.com/h/vermont-suite-anderson-key-farm *20 minutes to Woodstock, VT (Billings Farm, Shopping, Dining, Hiking, Golf, Spa, Skiing and much more) *25 minutes to Silver Lake State Park (rent boats, kayaks and paddle boards) *20 minutes to King Arthur Flour a short distance to dozens of restaurants, activities and experiences.

Stories from the community

T

Tiffany

November 2025

Group trip

1 night at Know Town

This spots is a gem !! Open space for star gazing, swimming hole, and the coolest dome with cozy spots for many people.

D

Danielle

October 2025

3 nights at Know Town

Staying at the Dome in Know Town is truly one for the bucket list! The hosts are welcoming and so helpful. We stayed for three nights and even in the chillier weather on late October nights, the easy set up made everything a real breeze. The out house is extremely well kept up with and the land around the Dome gives so much to do and explore. If you’re thinking about it, BOOK IT! You won’t regret it 🙂

CHRISTINA

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Streeter Mountain Farm

Such an absolutely special place! We were so lucky to stay in the library and meet a couple of lovely people from the community. The space was intentional and had everything we needed.

n

nadia

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Forest Echo Cabins

Cabin was private, cozy, and had everything we needed! Scott & Rose made everything super easy and welcoming. A hot bath in the morning followed by canoeing on Tiny Pond, a drive out to Woodstock, and stargazing in the meadow at night was an unbeatable experience. We had a lovely camping trip! Couldn’t recommend more.

K

Karie

October 2025

4 nights at Forest Echo Cabins

Our second time here and once again we had the BEST time! It is so peaceful and quiet. The cabin is stocked with everything you need and way more. We loved the bathroom remodel. We went during a drought but was provided with plenty of water to use (we also brought our own for backup) we loved sitting in front of the fireplace at night reading and doing puzzles. We enjoyed nights around the campfire and cooking dinner. The bed is very comfortable and the brown couch is perfect for naps. Being October we didn’t sleep on the porch bed but I can imagine how nice it is in the summer. Porch swing view sunrise is beautiful. Love taking a walk down to tiny pond and enjoy the use of the kayaks. Can’t wait to come back next year and bring our kids to experience this beautiful place. Scott and Rose are so welcoming and there for anything if needed. Thank you for this amazing place!

Christine

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Know Town

Staying at Bow's dome was such a pleasure! What a unique experience. Had all the basic necessities and had some very unique features that made the experience a 10/10!! Would recommend and will definitely be back.

D

Donald

October 2025

3 nights at Streeter Mountain Farm

A friendly environment that's perfect for unplugging. The lighthouse is a small room with a bed. There are no amenities but the views and the solitude are amazing. There a super firmly cat, named Lynx. Bring treats and love for him.

A

Apurva

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Know Town

Loved the site! They have built the dome beautifully! Will definitely visit again ♥️

Z

Zach

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Streeter Mountain Farm

Host was very pleasant and responsive. Would recommend based on my interactions.

E

Elaine

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Know Town

WHAT A MAGICAL SPOT! The sounds of the brook were lovely, and watching the sun light up the mountain foliage through the giant dome window was so beautiful! We did not brave the shower, but the wash station was super helpful and the hosts had thought of everything a person might need while out there! Loved the hiking trails and having dinner over the fire right next to the water. And of course, who could forget sweet Halo, the Dome Dog! Truly a memorable trip! As we were driving away, my son was already asking when we’d be back! Thank you for everything Bow!

D

Dana

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Know Town

The Dome provided such a unique way of glamping on a great plot of land right next to a river. You have the natural soundscapes all night! And one of the nicest outhouses we have ever seen! They’ve done such an amazing job with it all and we are hoping to go back one day.

K

Kelsey

September 2025

1 night at Know Town

Such a beautiful place to stay, I can’t wait to come back! The dome was absolutely beautiful. The property was magical and easy to find.

M

Melissa

September 2025

1 night at Willoughby Farm Animal Rescue

Such a cool spot! The area is absolutely beautiful, plenty of spots nearby to explore. We loved falling asleep under the stars and waking up to animals grazing nearby. Also, it rained and the greenhouse kept us and all our gear DRY. We would definitely stay here again when in Vermont. Don’t forget to bring carrots and apples for the rescues!

interior view of the Lighthouse from the back corner

Brigid

September 2025

1 night at Streeter Mountain Farm

The treehouse is a cozy spot on a beautiful piece of land.

J

Jacinda

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Streeter Mountain Farm

Relaxed vibe and beautiful areas to walk and connect. 🌳🌲

M

Michelle

September 2025

Group trip

3 nights at Forest Echo Cabins

We had a wonderful long weekend at Ripley Hill Cabin. The property and surrounding areas are beautiful. The caretaker we met, Scott, was helpful and informative on what the area has to offer for hiking, swimming, and fishing. The cabin is private, peaceful, with great star gazing at night. The cabin is large, with plenty of space to not be on top of each other with a large group. It was clean and very well stocked. We can't wait to come back next year!

A

Alexander

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Streeter Mountain Farm

Excellent place, cool farm, very nice host. Treehouse was so neat

k

kendrick

September 2025

With kids

1 night at Streeter Mountain Farm

We would come back in a heart beat. Beautiful hidden gem with so much to explore and learn. The host was kind and helpful!

J

Jessica

September 2025

4 nights at Forest Echo Cabins

Absolutely loved our stay here. Peaceful, well stocked, Rose and Scott were very helpful and welcoming. Couldn't have asked for a better place for our vacation. My dog Olive especially loved her stay.

K

Kaila

September 2025

2 nights at Willoughby Farm Animal Rescue

I stayed in the glass greenhouse for my 2 night stay and it was beautiful! I love that the animals are roaming around, genuinely friendly, and very ready for attention, but also seemed to know boundaries. I still can’t get over how beautiful Scott’s refuge is and I didn’t even explore all of it. Scott was helpful and friendly when I met him. It felt very private and safe. I am actually still not over how amazing my experience was during my stay. 100% planning on staying again.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping near Rochester guide

Where to go

Moosalamoo National Recreation Area

Nestled into the western slope of the Green Mountains just twenty minutes from Rochester, the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area offers hiking and mountain biking trails, several camping areas, and plenty of scenic views. The area’s highlight is the Robert Frost Trail, an interpretive trail that commemorates Robert Frost’s poetry and introduces hikers to the area's landscape.

Chittenden Reservoir

The Chittenden Reservoir is tucked into the Green Mountain National Forest about 45 minutes from Rochester. This pristine lake is a popular spot for motor boating, fishing, canoeing, kayaking and swimming. There’s also several miles of trails around the lake for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snow-shoeing adventures.

Branbury State Park

Located at the base of Mt. Moosalamoo, on the eastern shore of Lake Dunmore about 30 minutes west of Rochester, Branbury State Park is a great spot for boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. The park offers 36 campsites suitable for tents and trailers as well as seven lean-to sites for tent campers.

When to go

The Green Mountain National Forest surrounding Rochester, Vermont is open year-round. Summer is the best time for camping, hiking, and water sports as long as you come prepared for mosquitoes and other biting bugs. The Green Mountain National Forest is also one of the best places to see fall foliage in Vermont. The Lake Dunmore area is particularly pretty in fall and colors are best between late September and middle of October.

Know before you go

Rochester has a small grocery store, a few restaurants, and a bike shop.
Many national forest and state park campgrounds near Rochester offer advanced reservations online. Parks typically have a handful of sites on a first-come, first-served basis too.
Bears are common in the Green Mountains, so secure food in bear-proof containers.