Most wildfires are preventable. Be fire safe

The best camping in Vermont

·

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% (13.8K) 4,461 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Vermont

Grateful Acres Vermont

1. Grateful Acres Vermont

100%
(627)
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Harold's View Farm

2. Harold's View Farm

99%
(721)
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"
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Gus's Gardens

3. Gus's Gardens

100%
(168)
Wilmington, VT · 3 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Timbertrail Farm

6. Timbertrail Farm

99%
(611)
Shaftsbury, VT · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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! Best drinking water, anywhere to the left of the chimney at the white house. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Woodbury Meadows

7. Woodbury Meadows

99%
(435)
East Calais, VT · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
We live on 52 wooded acres in a natural area surrounded by lakes and ponds just 14 miles north of Montpelier VT. We are located on the Green Mountain Gravel Growler bike packing trail and 7 miles south of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail. We have lots of hiking , biking, boating and swimming opportunities nearby. Our amenity's include a bath house and laundry. We have two 30 amp RV sites with full hook ups and 4 tent/small RV non electric sites. We are 100% solar powered and have good WIFI but no cell service. We cater to small quiet groups who can enjoy our peaceful setting. If your are bike packing and our sites are booked just text or stop in we will accommodate you. The campground is located along our town road and the sites are 50 - 100 feet apart along our driveway. This is not a wilderness experience you will have neighbors, including us. We are a family friendly, non smoking campground. We are open early May till late October. Pets on leashes are OK. Quiet time is all the time :~). 12 and under free, no Generators.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Islands Base Camp

8. Islands Base Camp

99%
(284)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sunrise Farm

9. Sunrise Farm

98%
(631)
East Dover, VT · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Voted in the Top 3 in Vermont State by Hip Camp reviews since 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 ($12.50) - 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 Outhouses 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Green Mountain Glamping

14. Green Mountain Glamping

99%
(183)
West Burke, VT · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience all that the northeast kingdom of Vermont has to offer while staying at Green Mountain Glamping. Ride the Kingdom Trails right from the property! Nestled among the trees, our bell tent sites feature comfortable beds, pillows, linens, towels, a picnic table, smokeless fire pit, large ADA portapotty and more! We also have two sites for those that want to bring their own tent, adventure rig, camper or RV. All sites are accessible with 2WD and are privately situated on our 14 acre property. We also have a bike wash station and outdoor shower. These are private sites on our property. You'll drive past our home, garage, and garden to get to each site and you'll be able to see our buildings from the sites. We have a very large English Mastiff and some hens. Both are contained in our fenced in yard. Eggs can be purchased upon request. We also have a some dirt jumps if you need to get warmed up before your ride, and a simple bike wash station ready to go when you get back. Lots of wildlife inhabit our area of Vermont. During your stay you're likely to see whitetail deer, squirrels and chippies, rabbits, and hawks. There's a chance you may see a fox, black bear, moose or even a bobcat! We ask that food is secured in your vehicle and not brought into the bell tents, for your own safety. We do have a basket of safety equipment in each tent. The basket contains bug spray, bear horn, simple first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, and a flash light.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Free Verse Farm

15. Free Verse Farm

99%
(515)
Chelsea, VT · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Our farm & campground features stunning, panoramic views of the First Branch of the White River in the verdant hills of central Vermont. It overlooks the village of Chelsea, the shire town of Orange County. Free Verse Farm is a hilltop herb farm run by two art-making, herb-loving farmers. The property boasts twenty sloping, knoll-laden, open acres overlooking the First Branch of the White River as it passes through the scenic village of Chelsea, Vermont. We have incredible views, forest trails that offer magical woodland wanderings, and spacious campsites in our fields. We also invite you to explore our cultivated fields of herbs and vegetables and become acquainted with the wide variety of tea, culinary, and medicinal herbs that we grow and process on our farm. You can also visit with the cows that spend their summer munching our delicious green pastures. Our full line of herbs and herbal products are for sale via our website or at Free Verse Farm Shop, located just one mile from our farm in downtown Chelsea. Our Farm Shop offers a wide variety of fresh produce, provisions, fresh baked goods, alcoholic (& non-) beverages, and more to enjoy during your stay or as you continue on your journey. AMENITIES: we offer a hot outdoor shower & sink, as well as an outhouse with a composting toilet. Each campsite has a firepit and a picnic table. CAMPSITE DETAILS: We currently have 2 campsites open. They are located in meadows with beautiful views of the First Branch Valley and Chelsea village. 4 wheel drive is recommended, but not necessary, and you are always welcome to hike up to your site. The site is spacious and private. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS: We also run Free Verse Farm Shop (OPEN: Tuesday-Friday 11am-6pm, Saturday 9am-3pm), a local grocery, café, and apothecary to serve our community and visitors to the area, while supporting local farms and artisans. You can also pre-order online (shop.freeversefarm.com) to pick up in store or ship your order around the USA. The village of Chelsea hosts a weekly summer farmers market May-September on Fridays from 3-6pm (mid-May through September). In downtown Chelsea there is gas station (110 Quickstop), two town commons, a small library, and a general store (Will's Store), and a farm stand (Chicken Wiggle Farm). Within 20-45 minutes of our farm you can reach the larger towns of Montpelier (state capital), South Royalton, Randolph, Woodstock, White River Junction, and the Upper Valley Region (Dartmouth College), all of which offer a wide variety of attractions and services. Upon your arrival, you will be given a welcome packet with more detailed information about our area, and we'll be happy to provide you with any other tips you're looking for. We look forward to hosting Hipcampers and sharing our love of this land, and our region, with all who visit. We can't wait to meet you! -Taylor & Misha *VISIT our Farm Shop (shop.freeversefarm.com) in Chelsea to stock up on our herbal goods, fresh produce, baked goods, adult beverages, and other provisions. You can order online for pickup at the Farm Shop or ship your order anywhere in the USA. **TAG @freeversefarm in your photos on Instagram! We love to see your shots from the farm!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
BlueberryHill Field Camp

16. BlueberryHill Field Camp

100%
(320)
Goshen, VT · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camping is provided by and in support of the Blueberry Hill Outdoor Center, a 501 3C non-profit company. Located in the heart of the Green Mountain National Forest, the Outdoor Center provides access to the Blueberry Hill network of trails, the Vermont Long Trail, The Catamount Trail, and the Moosalamoo National Forest Trails. All campsites are located at the edge of the field behind the Outdoor Center. We have hot/cold outdoor showers as well as restrooms in the Outdoor Center. For more information, visit our website at blueberryhilltrails dot com. While there is an internet connection near the buildings, it may not be available at your site. Cell service is limited at best. You can drive your car right up to your site. Sites are a good distance apart. Site 1 and the Bed in the Shed are the most private. Site two is quite open and supports trailers. For your campfire, you can forage for wood or request "bundles" (about a dozen hunks of wood) by the morning of your arrival, and we'll have it delivered to your site. Please note, wood from outside Vermont is not permitted. We like to keep things quiet. No generators at any time. Step outside your tent and you'll find a wealth of hiking, biking, and running trails. As stewards of these trails, your camping fees help support the efforts of this non-profit company. Nearby, you can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. Trail maps are provided upon arrival, and you can also view them online on our webpage at Blueberry Hill Outdoor Center. The Outdoor Center offers snacks and cold drinks for purchase, including our inn-made chocolate chip cookies, chips, and cold drinks. Also available on site, at the Inn across the road on mornings we are serving, may be a full breakfast, pastries, packed lunch, and coffee. (Please enquire in advance or night before if any inn items are available. ) Don't miss our Pizza Nights at the inn. More info on the Outdoor Center or Blueberry Hill Inn webpage. Payment for extras can be made on-site via Venmo or cash. In August, enjoy blueberry picking right here on-site! Give us 1/2 your pick. We do not sell.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Four Springs Farm, Campground & Learning Center

17. Four Springs Farm, Campground & Learning Center

98%
(206)
South Royalton, VT · 4 sites
Four Springs Farm is a working organic farm on a beautiful west-facing hillside in central Vermont. Walk-in tent camping sites are tucked away in private corners of the farm a reasonable distance from the parking areas. The centrally located Wash Houses have toilets and hot showers. A picnic pavilion, which has a spectacular view of the valley and the hills of the Green Mtns, is available for group gatherings and celebrations and has a sink area for guests to use. Visitors are invited to tag-along-on-chores and meet the poultry sharing the farm with all of us and explore the seventy acres of paths, fields, streams, and woods. Guests will be dazzled by star-studded skies, treated to spectacular sunsets, and entertained by the farm cat Luna. The farm is mosquito free but inhabited by millions of fireflies. It's nature's playground at her best. Our season opens the last weekend in April and closes around the end of October. Wildflower Tent Site is a mowed area in one corner of a hillside field. Hammock campers would have a woods location for their use. It is located near the Wash Houses with it's own back door path, Watercress Crossing, over a small stream. There are no lights on the farm and this open spot is perfect for star gazing. There is a 10 x 12 foot tent platform, picnic table and fire pit. Morning Sunrise is the largest site and can hold ten tents easily on a relatively level grass area. It is protected from the heat of a late summer day and open to accept the first sunshine hitting the farm in the morning. Groups of multiple families, friends celebrating a special occasion, cycling groups and scouting organizations as well as individuals use this site to be slightly set apart from the heart of the farm activities. There is a picnic table and a firepit with space around it for a gang. Hidden Meadow is the most isolated and smallest tent site accessed by it's own bridge and unseen from most of the farm. Though not in the woods it feels tucked away and is ideal for couples or singles as it has room for only one tent ( on a 10 x 12 foot platform) and has a picnic table and fire pit. Maximum guests- three. Plum Corner as indicated by it's name is accessed along a path through the plum orchard. It is tucked up next to an old barn site with a stately old yellow birch defining the corner. It is ideal for families because of it's spaciousness and multiple tent options. There is one tent platform - 10 x 12 feet, a picnic table and fire pit.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
HOWL Women & Gender Justice Retreat

18. HOWL Women & Gender Justice Retreat

99%
(168)
Huntington, VT · 7 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Know Town

19. Know Town

99%
(100)
Stockbridge, VT · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hello, welcome to Know Town located amidst the close knit hills of central Vermont and nestled in the heart of the Stony Brook watershed in the town of Stockbridge. We have just over 40 acres of diverse natural beauty to explore and bask in, which includes a beautiful stretch of the brook with multiple dunking spots, as well as a larger swimming hole. In addition to Know Town's own outdoor activities, there are plenty of hiking trails and big river swimming holes located nearby. Currently, we offer three options for your overnight stays, as we just added The Swimming Hole site. This new site is very special and is sure to be a place that you will want to return to. Our Geodesic dome is the epitome of glamping with the comforts of home, but still integrated into the natural surroundings. Located right on the brook with a private fire pit and outdoor dining set up. There is plenty of room for games in the large field and a separate camp spot overlooking a little water fall and one of our swimming holes. For those who enjoy car camping we have the Apple tree camp site. Located right on the brook with a big rock for sunbathing and a spacious area for tents and rooftop car campers. There are a couple of apple trees to relax in the shade under and a large picnic table and fire pit. 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. There is virtually no light pollution which makes for optimal stargazing. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Maple Ridge Farm

20. Maple Ridge Farm

98%
(516)
Guilford, VT · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Thank you for a great 2025 season, as our 6th season closes, we still maintain a few sites for late Fall/early Winter (tent & van/camper sites)! Enjoy the Vermont Countryside year round. Our farm is nestled along a country road between several other farms, mostly horses and a special needs/therapy farm, we are hobby farmers/homesteaders. We have three sites open anytime, during camping season (depending on weather), either all three tent camping sites or a mix of one or two for camper vans & small trailers (into late Fall/early Winter). If there is any question please ask, we can modify the schedule but are only able to accommodate three sites at any given time. Thanks and PLEASE email if you have any questions! The Guilford Fairgrounds is less than 1/4 mile away and has many hiking and biking trails. The land was originally part of a colonial Glebe Trust with the Church of England and divided up, the original 100+ year farmhouse and barn can be seen from many of the campsites. Guilford, Vermont is located in the southeast of Windham County, resting along the Massachusetts border to the south and New Hampshire not far to the east. A community with a long and interesting history, Guilford was actually Vermont’s largest town as long ago as 1790. Now, with a population of about 2,100, its by no means considered a large community yet with its beautiful old covered bridges, churches, and one-room schoolhouse, Guilford maintains an unmistakable sense of history while at the same time having a reputation as one of the truly unique small communities in southern Vermont. Guilford has some of the most quintessential small town landmarks in all of Vermont. Sites like the Christ Church, Broad Brook House, and Guilford Center Meeting House were all built in the early 19th Century and are now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These buildings are found in what is considered the historic Center; shop for great local products at the Guilford Country Store, visit the charming Free Library, or even see some of the exhibits at the Historical Society Museum to learn more about the area and its history. Beyond the town center, venturing through the rest of Guilford will enable you to see the beautiful Vermont landscape.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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