The best camping in Vermont

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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.

98% (14.5K) • 4,559 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Vermont

Grateful Acres Vermont

1. Grateful Acres Vermont

100%
(604)
West Dover, VT · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land: Welcome to Grateful Acres Vermont, a 420 friendly, Grateful Dead inspired camping destination in the heart of the Green Mountains. We have space available for tents, campers, and trailers. Kayaks available to rent for use at the reservoir located just up the road. Just a family with some land in Vermont that we would like to share. PLEASE OBSERVE THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT
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Harold's View Farm

2. Harold's View Farm

99%
(768)
Westford, VT · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Former Dairy Farm but, the milking and hay barns burned many years Past. Harold's View Farm now camping. There are 4 entrances to the 80 acres of hay fields, now camping sites. Three entrances are for two sites each, the house entrance is for any questions. Please stop in if you have questions. The fields have been maintained to some degree until 2019 when Lee came up with the idea of primitive camping. The land turns out to be ideal because each site makes you feel like the only campers there. New this year you will find a picnic table for 6 and a 3 Ft. dia. fire pit with adjustable grill that flips out for open fire @ each site. Another new item is open to the sky "Hot Shower"
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Burke Line Farm

3. Burke Line Farm

98%
(351)
West Burke, VT · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Burke Line Farm is located in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. We are a working horse farm. Lessons and trail rides are offered 7 days a week by appointment. Please call 802-535-7722 to speak with our wrangler. Along with the horses we have sheep and lambs for market and wool. Our land is relatively flat with many trails for riding or walking. A short drive will bring you to Willoughby Lake, Kingdom Trails, and Burke Mt. We will Be Closing for the season on the 14th of November 2024. We had a great season and looking forward to seeing you all again in the spring of 2025.
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Green Mountain National Forest

4. Green Mountain National Forest

95%
(31)
National forest in Vermont · 123 sites
A peaceful woodland in the heart of New England filled with outdoor fun.
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Electrical hookup
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Button Bay State Park

5. Button Bay State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Vermont · 57 sites
Discover Button Bay State Park's scenic charm and outdoor adventures.
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Greenbush Farm

6. Greenbush Farm

99%
(520)
Weathersfield, VT · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
History: Family hay farm, 82 acres, owned since 2004, back in the 1940's they had pigs, goats, horses. In 1970 it was used to train trotters. Come enjoy!We have 3 tent sites along the North Branch of the Black River on the perimeter of our 82 acre hay farm. Main house is a five minute walk. There are countless fun activities within a 20 mile radius:- Ascutney Trails for hiking and mountain biking- Okemo Adventure Zone 12 miles away- Harpoon Brewery and CT River for canoeing and tubing 11 miles away- Live music and awesome food available in the Upper CT River Valley- Shopping in Woodstock. The recreational possibilities are endless. We can't wait for you to come and stay!
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HOWL Women & Gender Justice Retreat

7. HOWL Women & Gender Justice Retreat

98%
(123)
Huntington, VT · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
HOWL (Huntington Open Women's Land) is a mission-driven nonprofit which stewards 54 acres of land bordering on Camel’s Hump State Park, creating a space centered on women, trans people of all genders, and nonbinary and agender people. We ask that if you camp with us, you respect our guidelines regarding gender and living in community with others. If you are experiencing financial difficulties, we offer a 15% off discount code. We are also seeking full-time residents! Please note that we are on a dirt road on a mountain well away from town. You will need reliable transportation to visit here; 4WD recommended in winter months.
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Feel Good Farm

8. Feel Good Farm

99%
(309)
Wolcott, VT · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
This 150-acre property has been in our family for 32 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. In the commercial garden, seed crops are being 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 12 and under no charge. 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. Carry in and carry out property, Drive on field's edge only. Adhere to quiet hours 10pm-8am We can host large parties with advance notice.
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Broadfork Farmstead

9. Broadfork Farmstead

99%
(288)
Greensboro, VT · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Broadfork is the Fairbank family’s homestead in Greensboro, Vermont. It is a sustainably managed, diversified farm, featuring pastures, a variety of animals, chickens, beehives, and a variety of seasonal produce. Berry picking is available in season, and fresh eggs, pastured meats and poultry, pickles, preserves, and baked goods are available year round. Guests are invited to treat themselves to a picnic basket featuring specially curated local foods, some produced right here at Broadfork. We are excited to help make your stay a unique and memorable one, and are happy to help plan your time with us. Accommodations are situated central to the farmstead’s home acre. Wander the property, visit the animals, or just enjoy the beautiful views of the hills of Greensboro. Close to Caspian Lake beach, Barr Hill nature area, the Willey’s Store, and Hill Farmstead brewery. Snack boards, breakfast or picnic baskets with our own farm products and curated local delicacies are available upon request.
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Elmore State Park

10. Elmore State Park

100%
(7)
State park in Vermont · 45 sites
Elmore State Park is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Branbury State Park

11. Branbury State Park

100%
(4)
State park in Vermont · 37 sites
Discover Branbury State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
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Coolidge State Park

12. Coolidge State Park

100%
(4)
State park in Vermont · 26 sites
Discover Coolidge State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
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Emerald Lake State Park

13. Emerald Lake State Park

100%
(4)
State park in Vermont · 67 sites
Emerald Lake State Park: A Gem for Nature Lovers and Campers Alike.
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Riverside Retreat and Tiny Cabin

14. Riverside Retreat and Tiny Cabin

98%
(92)
Poultney, VT · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Refreshing riverside retreat with tent sites, RV/camper parking, and tiny house cabin on over 5 acres, featuring sunny meadows, sledding hill and seasonal direct access to snowmobile trails. It’s maple sugar season! The property is perfectly nestled near the Green Mountains and the White Mountains, with a swimming hole and river fishing available right in the backyard. Bike trails, walking trails and stunning motorcycle routes are all at your fingertips from the property. Village amenities, such as groceries, bike shops, convenience stores, cafes, restaurants, and laundromat are all in walking distance (about 1 mile or less). Lake St. Catherine State Park and Lake Bomoseen and others are close by for fun park activities, ice fishing, swimming. Visit a local winery (Whaleback Vineyard), see how maple syrup is made (Thrall Road Maple), shop the neighboring farm stands for local eggs, produce and baked goods. Close regional access to hunting, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating. Leaf peeping is such a treat around the cabin. Blackberries and fiddleheads on the property! In the fall, feel free to collect crab apples from our 100+ year old former orchard. *When in season. Bring your rod or nets for trout and crawfish from the river. Bonus ideas: pool noodles or a pool floaty and some rope to relax in the current. New additions: 6-seater triple hammock stand with built in picnic table. Fire pits and hammocks now at all sites! (Hammocks upon request in winter months at tent sites. Always available with cabin booking.) Tent sites can accommodate multiple tents, for group camping. Multiple fields available for yard games. Can accommodate parties and celebrations. 10’x10’ or 10’x20’ pop up shade tents available to rent upon request. Excellent site for photo shoots, glamping, stargazing, sunbathing, leaf peeping, bachelor/ette, birthday parties. Want us to stock a cooler for you? Charcuterie, snacks, meals, beverages, etc. available upon request, customizable to your dietary preferences. Coming with a special guest? We can also provide flowers, sweet treats, custom greeting cards, birthday banner, etc. We have been delighted to help coordinate surprises for birthdays, anniversaries, Valentine’s, and picnics.
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Green Mountain Garden Bed

15. Green Mountain Garden Bed

97%
(121)
Burke, VT · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
🌳🌻🚵‍♂️🛶🏕️The field is nestled in an apple orchard among the forest. There is a small brook at the edge of the field and runs through the 39 acres.  We are minutes away from mountain biking at the Kingdom Trails, Restaurants and bars, Lake Willoughby, Fire Fly farm stand, rock climbing, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, downhill skiing and snowboarding, ice climbing, ice fishing, cross country skiing, snow showing and vast trails. ✨👁️🌀💪🏼🌳Our vision is to create a Food Forest campground. Every penny goes toward stewarding the land! With the profits we buy more perennial food and herb plants, improve facilities and help build infrastructure. ♻️🚽🧻♻️Please note: We now have a composting toilet! Please put 2 scoops of sawdust in the bucket after you go. 🌳🦫🦆💧 Also check out the beaver duck pondbehind campsite 2! My father and the beavers have been hard at work creating waterfowl and local habitat. My father put in two wood duck nesting boxes that both have occupants :) Bill has planted smartweed, millet, buckwheat, wild rice and dwarf corn for our non human friends. Feel free to explore down there just bring some muck boots! 🍓🫐🌳⚠️Forage at your own risk and please practice sustainable foraging practices. IF you have any questions regarding sustainable foraging, we would be happy to inform you.  :) 💩🦮All pets need to be on leash at all times in the campground! Thank you! Also properly dispose of dog waste in compostable bags in compost toilet. Feel free to text the number provided with any questions or requests. Enjoy your stay at The Garden Bed!
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Peck Farm Orchard Pond

16. Peck Farm Orchard Pond

98%
(82)
East Montpelier, VT · 1 site · Tent, RV
    Over 200 years ago, our ancestors established the Peck Farm to sustain their families and build a community.  Eight generations later, we strive towards the same goals. Our farm is conserved through Vermont Land Trust and is an active farm featuring cropland, maple sugar woods, and apple orchard.Learn more about this land:Your camp site is a flat mowed lawn next to our orchard irrigation pond. The pond is fed via solar pump which is located in the wetland cow pasture just beyond the site. The camp site is situated between 2 woods a wetland and our pick your own apple orchard. A variety of bird species can be seen and heard throughout the day and in the evening. The area is a well used animal transition zone with deer, black bear, bobcats, turkey and many others. A fire pit is available, swimming in the pond is allowed. There is a traditional 2-hole outhouse 600ft from the campsite. Power hookup for charging is available on the property as well. Fall campers will have full access to our corn maze, apples, apple cider, cider donuts, dry hard cider and hay rides. The site is 6.5 miles from the capitol of Montpelier. Our town forest featuring miles of hiking trails is located just one mile from the site. Our parking area is often used by bikers and walkers for convenient parking.
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Quarry Brook

17. Quarry Brook

96%
(398)
Putney, VT · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
It all started on a first date in Boston....Nick had to excuse himself to take a phone call. His cow had fled its pasture. Much to Tara's surprise in that moment, this man she had just met was finishing his engineering degree at Northeastern, but was simultaneously building a homestead in Vermont. Fast forward 7 years, and here we are, building the life we only dreamed of. We yearned for simplicity. Deeper connections to our surroundings and mother nature. A calmer sense of place. The satisfaction that comes from growing food. Creating with our hands. We're a working farm and homestead. Every day at Quarry Brook is a new adventure, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. We’re incredibly excited to share our little corner of southern Vermont and what we’re up to with you!
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Islands Base Camp

18. Islands Base Camp

99%
(297)
South Hero, VT · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Conserved by the South Hero Land Trust, the historic Sawyer Bay Farm on the Island of South Hero was converted to grazing beef cattle. Our farm name is Health Hero Farm. We practice intensive planned grazing, moving the cattle daily to fresh grass. The herd may be near the campsites or completely out of sight, somewhere on our 180 acres. While we were building a house, we camped in the equipment shed during the summer and grew to value its convenience. Joan's enjoyment of cycling inspired her to designate the farm stand as a "bike stop" where visitors could buy a snack, get water, fix their bikes and use the unique islands amenity of a composing toilet in a converted ice fishing shack. A port-a-potty is available during high season. South Hero is an agricultural island, as well as a summer tourist destination with numerous outdoor activities. It is also only a half-hour away from Burlington, and the drive is pleasurable. Pitch your tent, stow your gear under cover and explore all the islands have to offer. Yes, this is a summer destination, with great cycling, boating and swimming. We are a grass-fed beef operation, Health Hero Farm, on the island of South Hero. (You can read more about us on our farm website. ) Our farm is on the bike route around the islands, with access to many other vacation activities. Pitch your tent in the farmstead or in half of our empty equipment shed 30' x 60'. Or tool on down the farm road and be alone with the cattle and grass. In the shed, which is open on the north side, you have shelter from the rain, sun and wind. We have two campsites that can share a microwave, hot plate, refrigerator, camp sink and coffee maker in the barn. Lots of storage under roof for bikes and luggage. Our composting toilet (from Natures Head Composting Toilet) is a unique amenity -- installed in a retired ice-fishing shack (on skis). During the busy summer months, we may have a port-o-let (a.k.a. port-a-potty) with professional service. In the winter, the equipment shed not available. We rent out vehicle and boat storage in the equipment shed and cannot accommodate camping there. However, we have ample parking for RVs at any time of the year. And if you are an experienced snow camper, we have several locations to choose from. We have a farm stand where you can buy a few snacks. If you want to try our beef, we'll be happy to show you our freezers. We are 2 miles from a convenience store that packs an amazing array of products into a small space. We are close to a gem of a public beach, a winery (Snow Farm Vineyard), apple orchards, a public school playground, and miles of scenic driving. Local farmers markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays offer some of the best produce from these agricultural islands. We also own 1000' frontage on Lake Champlain, which you may enjoy. It is difficult to access, but affords privacy and serenity. We allow campfires on the gravel areas of the farm and on the beach, where you can gather dead wood. If you want to host a large group, you will need to reserve both campsites and rent a port-o-let (Vermont's lingo for porta-potty) if we don't already have one. Additional fees might apply. There is no RV electrical hookup; however, the equipment shed has electric outlets for your use. Additional fees apply for energy intensive appliances, such as heaters or air conditioners. There is no water hookup; however, we can fill your tanks with a hose from a potable water supply. Generators are not allowed, unless you are sufficiently distanced from other campers and our neighbors. Other accommodations may be available. Just ask! We have many resources, and want you to have a great visit.
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Gus's Gardens

19. Gus's Gardens

99%
(191)
Wilmington, VT · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
With the main house built in the 1830s. This 9 acre property has seen many uses such as a farm/orchard, retail christmas store, religious retreat, rental cabins, and a gravel quarry among other things. I now try to keep the back acreage by the brook and pond as natural as possible for wildlife habitat, as well as you the campers! Learn more about this land: I have 3 well spaced out RV/tent sites on the property. They fit different sized rigs so please read the descriptions. The Pond site is significantly larger and can hold multiple vehicles and tents or trailers (please add this in the extra vehicles at checkout if you will be having multiple vehicles or trailers). Pets are welcome at the sites, but please have them remain leashed or under your effective verbal control. There is no trash service, so please keep your trash secure from wildlife. Leave no trace! Most will have cell service at the sites or there is a free public Wi-Fi in Wilmington center. Private yet convenient to Downtown Wilmington, VT. Located between the Harriman reservoir and Lake Raponda, both great for boating, fishing and swimming. As well as the Deerfield River across the street, which runs through town. There is a public hiking trail (The Valley Trail) that goes through the property. It goes from the Fairview ave. boat launch in Wilmington, through town and hooks up to trails all the way up to West Dover. You can access this at the back of the sites. The sites are only a minutes drive from downtown Wilmington, or you can hike/bike there on the trail (approx 15 min). In Wilmington there is plenty of shopping, gifts, coffee, restaurants, laundry, gas, liquor store/ dispensary, electric car chargers, etc. I have dry, split firewood available for $5 on site. Please don't bring your own wood unless it is dryed and prepackaged from a retail store or bought from one of the local sellers right around me. Transportation of out of state firewood can bring invasive beetles to our forests...if you need anything else feel free to reach out and I'll do my best to steer you in the right direction.
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Bent Apple Farm

20. Bent Apple Farm

87%
(135)
Londonderry, VT · 5 sites
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.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Vermont camping guide

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

  1. 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).
  2. 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. 
  3. 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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Top national parks and forests in Vermont