The Northeast has a few destinations that provide the ideal opportunity to disconnect from your hectic daily life. The small state of Vermont is one of them. With its lush green forests, rugged mountains, and crystal-clear lakes, Vermont provides an unparalleled setting to surround yourself with nature. As such, it’s a prime spot for camping.
Whether you’re seeking solitude in the woods or an adventure with friends, this guide will help you discover one of the best places for camping in New England: Vermont.
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Green Mountain National Forest
The Green Mountain National Forest is a wonderful place to camp, with many different types of terrain and activities.
Located in northern Vermont and southern Quebec, this region is home to the Lake Champlain Islands and several mountain ranges, including the Green Mountains (the name “Green Mountain National Forest” was chosen because of these mountains). The forest contains two national parks: Lake Champlain, which sits on the border between New York State and Vermont; and Mount Mansfield/Mt. Ellen in Vermont. There are also two other federally protected areas within this region: The Stowe Recreation Area and John Boyd Thacher State Park.
Woodford State Park
Woodford State Park is a popular camping destination for campers looking to explore Vermont’s Green Mountains. The park has a variety of camping sites, including tent and RV sites as well as cabin rentals. Woodford State Park also has many hiking trails for you to enjoy when you’re not at your campsite! In addition, the park is located on Lake Dunmore and offers swimming opportunities in the summertime (or anytime if you don’t mind getting chilly).
Lake Champlain Islands
There’s a lot to do on Lake Champlain: swimming, fishing, sailing and boating are all popular activities. The majority of the islands are privately owned, so read up on restrictions before you go.
- At Ticonderoga: Sip an ice cold beer while watching sailboats at the waterfront bar or take in some stunning views from Mount Defiance, then get your fill of history at Fort Ticonderoga.
- At Crown Point: Take a stroll along the rocky beaches or paddle around in one of their canoes (rentals available).
- At Chimney Point State Park: Explore historic Fort Ann while hiking along trails through forested land and past wetlands where birds flock to nest year round.
Lake Champlain Islands is a short drive away from Burlington—about three hours by car—and just over two hours from Montreal! You can also reach it via public transit if that’s more your speed.
Camel’s Hump State Park
Camel’s Hump State Park is a beautiful place to camp, hike and bike. The park has three main peaks: Camel’s Hump, Mad Tom and Packer Mountain (also known as Haystack). You can drive up Camel’s Hump or take the Nordic trail that goes up a steep trail to the top of the mountain. There are numerous trails throughout Camel’s Hump and Mad Tom which connect to several other state parks including Redstone and Smugglers’ Notch.
If you’re looking for something less strenuous than hiking up mountains then try biking on one of their many trails! You may want to bring your own bike as there aren’t rentals available at this time but there are plenty of places nearby where you can rent them if needed. When biking on these trails pay attention because some roads allow cars while others don’t so make sure you stick with designated bike paths when possible just incase 🙂 There are also swimming areas along Lake Dunmore where you can cool off after spending all day outdoors in Vermont.
Taconic State Park
Taconic State Park is in the Green Mountain National Forest, south of Manchester and west of Canaan. Taconic State Park sits on the western side of the Taconic Range. It’s part of a series of protected areas that includes parts or all of four counties in Vermont and Massachusetts: Bennington County (both VT and MA), Franklin County (only VT), Litchfield County (only CT) and Windham County (only CT).
The park has an area of 2,500 acres with hiking trails through woods where you’ll find wildlife like white-tailed deer and moose; picnic tables for family gatherings; campsites for tents or RVs; restrooms with running water inside each cabin; hot showers outdoors near bathrooms at each cabin site (#3 has no indoor restroom). Camping season runs from May 1 to November 30 annually, but there are some exceptions depending upon weather conditions.
Conclusion
It’s safe to say you’ll find no shortage of outdoor activities when camping in Vermont. From hiking, biking, boating and fishing to skiing, snowshoeing and more, there’s something for everyone. It may be the Green Mountain State but this place is about more than just mountains. It’s also home to beautiful lakes, forested valleys and charming towns that will have you never wanting to leave their quaint streets again…not even after all those hot dogs are gone!
