The best camping near Waterbury Center State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Waterbury Center State Park adventure.

Discover the serene beauty of Waterbury Center State Park.  

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Top-rated campgrounds near Waterbury Center State Park

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Vermont Ranch & Riverside Retreat

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Moretown, VT
⛰ 🐦Wake to the sound of bird calls and water in this private retreat, situated squarely on the confluence of 2 rivers. Eventually, once part of a much larger working merino sheep farm owned by the Cobb family in the 1700s-1800’s, part of the land transitioned to a dairy cow farm operation, c.1940. Today, we steward 10 acres specially designed with horses in mind. Adjacent to a 40-acre cornfield on one side and Mt. Cobb on the other, with sweeping views our place overlooks the confluence of the Mad and Winooski Rivers. From here, you can mountain bike or hoof it to access miles of trails and bucolic scenery. Come visit this gateway to the Scenic Mad River Valley! 🌲🏊🐟The Swimming/Fishing/Tenting site ("site 1") is perched directly aside the Mad River and the Sweet Meadow Side site ("site 2") is just a 2-minute walk across the grassy meadow and down the secluded riverside path to our beloved Mad River beach. This is a semi-private beach, naturally divided and hidden from our other semi-private beach sites. Swim, tube, fish and relax up or down the river and confluence. 👢👓 Get curious about the history of this place by checking out the old abandoned Massey Furgeson hay baler tucked in the woods, the Cobb family cemetery, and more gems from many years gone by. Leave from either site on foot to access a sweet trail that travels along the river, over a private bridge, down a beautiful dirt road and into the forest. 🚴 Our property is located on the CROSS VERMONT TRAIL: "a multi-use path connecting communities, and the natural areas in between - across Vermont!" Check out their website (Cross Vermont Trail Association) for maps, guides, events and outings! Many adventurists also enjoy nearby, mountainous and beloved trails: Camel's Hump, The Long Trail, Mt. Mansfield, Stowe Pinnacle, Smuggler's Notch and more. There are a plethora of shorter, scenic and gentle hikes in our region, "the crossroads and recreation center of Vermont"! We are located just 2 miles from Interstate 89 and we reside on Vermont State Route 100B, allowing ease of access to points North, South, East and West Explore our on-site activity offerings: 🐴 Introduction Session: Get acquainted with our horses, tour the barn, and learn about equine-guided education and grooming. $45 for 1 hour for 1-6 people. 🐴 Horsemanship and Riding Lessons: Learn non-forceful bareback and bit-less leading and mounted techniques step by step. $100/hour or $150/1.5 hours for 1-2 people. 🐴 Family Team Building-Bonding (Most Popular): Enjoy an adventurous, fun, and challenging experience together as a family with exercises and activities facilitated by Lucinda. Non-mounted equine guided education at its best! $250 for 2.5 hours. These rates are discounted for our onsite Hipcampers 🙏🏼 Visit our website for more details: Horses and Pathfinders dot com. We'd love to hear from you! You are welcome to review all the varied, detailed and descriptive reviews and photos from other guests' experiences. This is a working ranch and sometimes equipment is running, but never for more than an hour at a time. Horses are on site and they have full access to this property. If you have an untrained, young or problematic dog, please consider a long lead line and read the dog rules and limits carefully. This is not a deep-woods, wilderness site. Please review the map and note our proximity to the interstate and the route where we reside. ❤️ Many guests, families and couples return here year after year as their destination vacation and getaway. We welcome you to experience what they enjoy so much -- right on site and in this special region, the heart of Vermont. ❤️
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$60
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Harold's View Farm

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents75 acres · Westford, VT
Former Dairy Farm but the milking & hay barns burned many years Past. 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 "Hot Shower"
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$45
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Parade Rest

1 site · RV8 acres · Stowe, VT
Private property on 8 acres. Deer and turkeys pass thru almost daily. It's not uncommon to see a bear running through in season. Private, level spot near garage with electric and water. Fire pit available. Up the hill from main road. Paved road turns into dirt. Gorgeous views on approach. Extremely quiet star filled nights.
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$47
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ZenDen in Stowe

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Stowe, VT
9x15 insulated and heated cabin with electricity. SAUNA right off the porch. Grill. WiFi and Satellite. Cold/Hot water dispenser. Saw-dust toilet. Fire pit. Covered 10x10 deck with screen protector. Picnic table. Beautiful sunset. Plenty of parking for camper van or small RV. Prime location in Stowe. Text for more photos.
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$100
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Couching Lion Field

1 site · RV, Tent7 acres · Waterbury Center, VT
Learn more about this land:A mowed area of the upper field with a beautiful view of Camels Hump. There is a pond to swim in and relax by. Star gaze in the evening and awake hearing the birds singing.
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Huntington Open Women's Land

10 sites · Tents50 acres · Huntington, VT
Eclipse weeked is almost here! A total Solar Eclipse will be taking place on the afternoon of Monday, April 8. Camel’s Hump Road will be open only to local traffic from Sunday, April 7 at 9 am to Monday, April 8 at 4 pm. Hiking TRAILS are CLOSED for mud season! HOWL overnight guests qualify as local traffic, so if you have booked a room or a campsite, you are allowed to drive on Camel's Hump Road. Men are not allowed at HOWL (with the exception of trans men). Thanks! In April, we'll still be in winter camping mode. It will be early spring in Vermont, and a variety of weather is possible. We're likely to have snow, rain, and/or mud. It's also likely to be windy, and if that’s the case, it will feel colder than it is. Please plan accordingly, and know that the eclipse might not be visible (but it will get really dark in the middle of the afternoon!) . Bring warm clothes, layers, a raincoat or snow shell, and sturdy shoes/boots. Eclipse viewing glasses will be available free of charge at the check-in station. Recently, Vermont has experienced catastrophic flooding and wind storms, leaving many trees unstable and broken tree limbs stuck in the canopy overhead. All visitors to HOWL understand that activity is at their own risk and take responsibility for checking overhead canopy for unstable trees before walking underneath. Hammock campers especially need to be careful. -- Eclipse Update! -- Hello and greetings from HOWL! We are now fully booked for Sunday night. For those who have signed up for a campsite, we’re looking forward to hosting you during the long weekend of the eclipse. Traffic is going to be quite heavy in Vermont, especially on Monday. If you’re arriving on Monday, feel free to get here anytime from 9 AM on. Just give us a heads-up. This VTDigger article focuses on the traffic: https://vtdigger.org/2024/03/24/2024-eclipse-expected-to-bring-traffic-jams-to-vermont/ Traffic is expected to be worst on Monday afternoon and evening, but it will probably still be pretty heavy in the morning, and possibly all weekend. Not to be discouraging; we don’t really know. If you are traveling this week, know that we are getting rain and SNOW, Wednesday through Friday. National Weather Service forecast: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=44.47588&lon=-73.21207 Road crews are awesome in Vermont, and I'm sure they will be keeping the roads clear as best possible. Driving conditions could be hazardous at times, especially if we get a "wintry mix". Some roads may be shut down for part of Monday. This site for eclipse-related news may be the best place to look for road closure updates: https://www.vermont.gov/eclipse#gsc.tab=0 On that site, it says: "Many towns will report road closures to WAZE, which will be displayed on the app. Not all towns will report road interruptions, so the app will not be all-inclusive. Please respect road closures and detours." Use your judgment and drive safely! I’m sorry to say that there may be snow on the ground when you arrive. On the other hand, it could be melted (due to rain and warmer temperatures). Between the traffic and the snow, the forecast seems a bit daunting. I trust each of you to make the best decision about your travel plans. Not sure what the weather will be like on the 8th. Right now the forecast is for clear skies, but this could change at any moment! Keep an eye on the weather, and you may want to check out this Burlington Free Press article: https://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/story/news/local/vermont/2024/03/28/chances-of-vermont-eclipse-2024-viewing-obscured-by-clouds-clear-skies-april-8/73127363007/ This (older) article talks about the influx of visitors expected to come to Vermont: https://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/story/news/local/vermont/2023/05/26/solar-eclipse-2024-vermont-path-of-totality-planning-guide-visiting/70203653007/ If you have eclipse glasses, bring them along. We have about 20 pairs, but we may run out if we get more people. Finally, please go easy on our caretaker. She is only one person and will not have the bandwidth to organize activities for the eclipse. Be perpared to keep yourselves entertained, and please feel free to socialize with other visitors! If you'd like to talk with a Collective member, send us a message or email and we can arrange another time. Thanks! ------ HOWL is a non-profit land trust held in perpetuity for the full diversity of women, regardless of gender assigned at birth, and transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive individuals. We are an intentional community working to create an alternative to systemic oppression and patriarchy. We work collectively to preserve and steward the land, to provide space for community building, service, and skill-sharing, and to collaborate in projects and programming that reflect our shared values of intersectional feminism, compassion, respect, sustainability, and love of the earth.
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$40
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Singing Wood Farm

9 sites · RVs, Tents77 acres · Morrisville, VT
Singing Wood is located on 77 acres in Morristown Vermont, Lamoille County. Our farm offers gorgeous all season views of Vermont’s Green Mountains. We are located on Bull Moose Road and Mud City Loop. The farm is sits just outside the edges of Mount Mansfield State Forest with views of White Rocks, Bull Moose Hill, Sterling and Morse Mountains. A hidden tranquil gem in the Vermont countryside surrounded by forest and farmlands, bordered by the pristine trout brook Beaver Meadow Brook. Our family farm features forest trails, wildflower meadows, berry patches, herbs, cut flowers, honeybees, wood fired maple syrup and vegetables. Our farm store is filled with our own farm fresh products as well as a small selection from other quality food artisans and crafts people. The Catamount trail (a 300 mile long winter trail system) passes through our property and offers some of Vermont’s finest backcountry skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing. We are just 20 mins from the ski area and town of Mt. Mansfield in Stowe, 35 minutes to the ski areas of Smugglers Notch and Bolton Valley. 1 Hour to Burlington International Airport. We are located near many fine restaurants and breweries (Lost Nation, The Alchemist, and Rock Art among many others). The area is full of year round recreational opportunities.
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$55
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Fern Hollow

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Waitsfield, VT
Our property is nestled in the foothills of the Mad River Valley, close to the headwaters of the river. The property is composed of wetlands, agricultural meadows, old apple trees, and hardwood forest with 700 feet of elevation. All structures on the property are solar-powered and a rainwater system feeds the sink in the outdoor kitchen. There are a handful of individual camp sites available in the spring, summer and fall, as well as a communal outdoor kitchen with lighting, a fire pit, a stone pizza oven and a sitting/yoga deck. We also offer more of a "glamping" experience in our 14 ft yurt, which comfortably sleeps 2-3 people with wood stove heat and a solar battery for lighting. We love sharing this space with others and offering a rustic forest getaway.
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$30
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Verbena Vista, the Druid cottage

3 sites · Lodging70 acres · Worcester, VT
Welcome to Verbena Vista, the Druid cottage at Dreamland! Verbena Vista is: ~a tiny guest cottage committed to sustainable, simple living. ~off grid, unplumbed, solar powered and uses only natural cleaning products. ~secluded, quiet, immersed in many acres of forest with meandering brooks, pond, trails, sacred well, stone circle and labyrinth. ~Less than 10 miles from Montpelier, the state capitol; a charming small city. 2 miles to farm store and general store/gas station. Unplug, slow down, and sink in to retreat on sacred land.10 x 20’ cozy, bright cottage. Off grid with small solar system.Unplumbed- Tank systems for sink and shower. Compost bucket toilet. Double sized bed and single pull out couch. Please bring your own linens! Propane cook top and heat. Unplugged- No wifi. Limited cell reception. Quaint front porch with rocking chair and awesome vista of gardens, pond, stars, hills; Winter access involves a short walk up a packed snow trail. Cargo sled provided. Kindly observe quiet hours: 10:00 pm – 7:00 am. After 10:00 pm is quiet time. Remove your own trash when you depart. You may leave clean recyclables and compost in appropriate bins. No driving above the yurt parking area please.. If you swim in the pond, clothing is optional. Please do not use any soaps or shampoo in pond. No smoking or vaping inside. Firewood for sale, $5 for an armload. Please inquire for more info and leave $ in basket in yurt. Please use fire pit in front of cottage, not in stone circle. No cutting or defacing trees for fires. Please be respectful to our site and to the environment by keeping things tidy and low impact. Trail walking- You are welcome to walk and explore the trails and dirt roads around here. They are not marked so leave a trail of breadcrumbs if you are not good at navigation! Feel welcomed to use our temple spaces for solo or respectful group connection quiet time. Please no drinking or smoking in these spaces. If you stay includes a Wednesday in the warmer months, there may be an Ecstatic Dance in the stone circle from 7-9pm. You are welcome to join us! Welcome LGBTQIA and BIPOC!
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$65
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The Rooney Farm

3 sites · Lodging, Tents820 acres · Morristown, VT
The Rooney Farm is an 820 acre working organic dairy farm and maple sugarbush in Morristown, VT that has been stewarded by the Rooney family for four generations. We milk a herd of fifty holstein, jersey, guernsey, and ayrshire cows. We are right off the Long Trail, Catamount Trail, and VAST trail systems. We have mountain bike trails on the farm as well as a great swimming hole. We have miles of hiking trails that link up to the Beaver Meadow trail network in the Vermont State Forest as well as Morristown Forest trails. Our camp has two full size beds and sleeps four people. The camp is not winterized: will protect you from wind and snow but not the cold!
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$95
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(15)

Shaw Mansion Bell Tent

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Waterbury, VT
Located on three beautiful acres in Waterbury Center, Vermont. Parking is a 30 second walk into the woods off a quiet dirt road and a 7-minute drive into the village for dining and shopping. We do have neighbors, so we ask that you are respectful in your noise level. Ten minutes from the free boat launch on our glorious reservoir where you can rent kayaks, canoes or SUP's. Bike right out of the site to awesome mtn bike trails, and within a couple miles of hiking trails including, Camels Hump and Hunger Mountain. Or just stay and relax in the spacious bell tent! Provided, bell tent with tall queen air mattress topped off with a super comfortable mattress topper and fitted sheet. Please bring your own bedding for on top of the sheet. Charcoal grill also provided, bring your own charcoal and kitchenware for cooking and eating. Fire pit, picnic table, chairs around the fire. Chairs on the deck with tent. Firewood can be purchased and be waiting for you when you arrive! A small tent for the portable camping toilet. Solar lighting all around.
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$90
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Moose Meadow Lodge & Treehouse

1 site · Lodging86 acres · Waterbury, VT
Willie Docto and Greg Trulson are committed to providing a comfortable, fun, and make-yourself-at-home atmosphere at the Moose Meadow Lodge & Treehouse. The two met in 1992 at a log home B&B in West Virginia and have stayed at many B&Bs and log lodges ever since. In 1996, these former Washingtonians moved to Vermont to pursue their dream of owning a B&B. They bought a single-family home on 86 acres, and after a couple of years of research, planning, fishing, hunting and renovating, they opened the Moose Meadow Lodge in October of 1998 and added the Treehouse in 2012.Learn more about this land:Imagine waking up to the splashing of rainbow trout and the music of the hermit thrush as you gaze out on the pristine pond at Moose Meadow. The Treehouse at Moose Meadow is where nature and luxury come together in tranquil harmony, and where your imagination can soar. This is an experience that will change you forever.Supported by two mature pine trees, the Treehouse at Moose Meadow is redefining glamorous camping or "glamping." Designed for those who enjoy camping as well as creature comforts, this handcrafted two-story nest is made with cedar, pine, maple and hemlock. Its 31 windows maximize your experience of the natural surroundings.COVID-19: Due to the rise in COVID-19 infections, we require proof of vaccination for those age 5 or older or proof of a negative COVID test (antigen or PCR) within 24 hours prior to arrival. Masks are required in public spaces in the presence of people outside your household.  If you're feeling any COVID-19 symptoms, stay home. You will not be allowed to enter.  We appreciate your help in mitigating the pandemic and look forward to welcoming you.
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$650
 / night

The best camping near Waterbury Center State Park guide

Overview

About

Nestled in the heart of Vermont, Waterbury Center State Park offers a tranquil escape with its pristine waters and lush surroundings. Engage in a variety of activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing in the Waterbury Reservoir, or explore the scenic trails that offer accessible routes for all. With 27 remote paddle-to campsites, adventure awaits those looking to immerse themselves in nature's embrace.

Notable campgrounds

  • Remote Paddle-to Campsites: Experience seclusion amid Waterbury Reservoir's shoreline with 27 remote sites accessible only by boat.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your spot, as remote campsites are popular and can fill up quickly during peak season.
  • Use the online reservation system or call the Reservation Call Center at 1-888-409-7579 for convenience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations, as last-minute openings can provide unexpected opportunities.
  • Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding the perfect site.

When to go

The best time to visit Waterbury Center State Park is from the Friday of Memorial Day Weekend through the second Monday in October, when the park is open and fully operational. Outside of these months, the park's services, including remote campsites, are limited due to seasonal closures.

Know before you go

  • Day use hours are from 10am to official sunset, so plan your activities within this timeframe.
  • Pets are not permitted in the park, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
  • Remember to bring heat-treated firewood or purchase it locally to prevent the spread of invasive species.
  • Accessible trails and fishing platforms are available, making the park's natural beauty available to everyone.
  • Boat rentals are offered until Labor Day, so plan accordingly if you wish to enjoy water activities.

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