Best Camping in Vermont

Vermont, with its rolling hills, dense forests, and pristine lakes, offers a camping experience that embodies the tranquility and beauty of New England. Whether you're seeking the solitude of a backcountry retreat, the charm of a lakeside campsite, or the adventure of hiking through the Green Mountains, Vermont's natural landscapes provide a picturesque setting for campers seeking both relaxation and outdoor thrills.

For those drawn to the mountains, the Green Mountain National Forest offers a vast expanse of wilderness to explore. With its rugged terrain, the forest is home to the Long Trail, America's oldest long-distance hiking trail, which traverses the state from the Massachusetts border to Canada. Campgrounds like Green Mountain and Grout Pond provide a base for exploring the forest's network of trails, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The forest's elevation also offers a respite from the summer heat, making it a perfect destination for a mountain getaway.

In the northeastern part of the state, the Northeast Kingdom offers a more secluded camping experience amidst Vermont's most unspoiled landscapes. Crystal Lake State Park, with its clear waters and sandy beach, is a gem in this region. The park's campground allows visitors to enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and swimming in the lake, as well as hiking in the surrounding hills. The area's natural beauty, combined with its tranquility, makes it a haven for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

For a lakeside retreat, Lake Champlain's islands offer serene campgrounds with stunning views of the water and the Adirondack Mountains in the distance. Grand Isle State Park, located on Grand Isle, is the largest of these campgrounds, providing easy access to the lake for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park's open spaces and bike paths also make it a family-friendly destination, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.

For history enthusiasts, the historic sites of Vermont, such as the Bennington Battle Monument and Fort Dummer State Park, offer a unique camping experience. While some historic sites do not offer camping directly, nearby state parks and campgrounds provide a base to explore Vermont's rich history. These sites not only offer a glimpse into the past but are also situated in some of Vermont's most beautiful landscapes, providing an added bonus to history buffs.

A few tips for camping in Vermont: Be prepared for a range of weather conditions, especially in the mountains, where temperatures can drop significantly at night. Booking in advance is highly recommended, particularly for popular destinations during the peak fall foliage season. And, whether you're exploring a national forest, enjoying the lakes, or delving into history, practicing Leave No Trace principles is crucial to preserving Vermont's natural beauty and historical integrity.

Vermont's camping destinations offer an escape into the state's diverse and picturesque landscapes, from the serene shores of Lake Champlain and the lush wilderness of the Green Mountain National Forest to the tranquil beauty of the Northeast Kingdom and the historical intrigue of its historic sites. Whether you're seeking adventure, solitude, or a journey through America's past, camping in Vermont invites you to discover the natural wonders and serene beauty of the Green Mountain State.