Camping in Vermont | The Ultimate Camping Guide

Camping in Vermont

Have you been camping in Vermont? We would love to hear your tips and tricks, and best places to camp!

Introduction

Vermont is undoubtedly the smallest state on our list of camping guides so far. But don’t be fooled by size alone; from the New Hampshire border in the east to Lake Champlain in the west, Vermont has so much to offer.

Things to Consider Before Camping in Vermont

• Unlike other places we’ve mentioned, such as the Adirondacks in neighboring New York; Vermont does not have very much free, public camping. Unless you’re backpacking through areas with free sites, plan to do a little research on reservable campgrounds, of which there are many, both private, and public: https://vtstateparks.com/camping.html.
• Plan to take time to travel: Vermont has one major airport, in Burlington, and major Highways are few and far between. Simply put, plan for it to take a bit longer than it might look to get to your destination. Relax, it’s a lovely drive!
• Bring your passport: Northern Vermont, the White Mountains in New Hampshire, and the Adirondacks in New York are all just a quick drive from Montreal and even more adventure in Quebec, Canada. Don’t limit yourself! Make sure to pack your travel documents for a day-trip across the border.

Tips for Camping in Vermont

Rent a Boat - Camping in the Lake Champlain Islands is one of the most attractive options for camping in Vermont. When you rent a boat, you’re a quick ride away from Burlington, exploring or biking the shores of the “inland sea”, and the farms of South Hero. Rent a boat and leave your campsite for the day in style!

Prepare for Bears - Bears are very active in the Green Mountains. Pack your food with care and read up on how to avoid a confrontation with bears: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/bears/safety.htm.

Bring your Bug Spray - Vermont may be a small state, but the mosquito population is huge. Be prepared!

Places to Visit in Vermont

The Lake Champlain Region - Running almost the entire length of the western side of the state, Lake Champlain is sometimes called the 6th Great Lake. Camp along the shores, and visit urban Burlington, the Shelburne Museum, the Lake Champlain Islands, a Maritime Museum, and more. Make sure to bring, or rent a canoe, kayak or motorboat!

The Green Mountains - Just inland from Lake Champlain, the rolling Green Mountains give Vermont its nickname, and stretch from Massachusetts to Quebec. Hike the trails of the Green Mountain National Park, or bike the roads over the mountain range, all the way from New Hampshire and the Connecticut River, to Lake Champlain. Make sure to stop in Middlebury for a Maple Creamee before heading back to camp.

The Northeast Kingdom - Tucked away on the northern edge of Vermont, the Northeast Kingdom is a great place to Backpack, and Bikepack. Check out the Mountain Biking at Burke Mountain, or paddle down the Connecticut River. These rolling hills are filled with great spots to camp.

Photo Credit: Laura Greenwood