It’s not always easy to find all-season camping in Vermont! This stunning state can sometimes fall prey to frigid, snowy winters that can really hamper outdoor camping, leaving campgrounds shut down in the wintertime. But if you know where to look—and don’t mind hauling in your gear through the snowy outdoors—you will find plenty of spots for some wonderful winter camping in Vermont.
Read on for our roundup of the best locations for winter camping in Vermont—from private campgrounds to state parks all throughout the state.
Coziest Winter Camping in Vermont’s Northern Region
1. Shelburne Camping Area
Shelburne
If you want to try your hand at some winter camping in Vermont, but don’t feel like going the full rustic route with state park camping, then a private, all-seasons campground is just what you need. One great option for this kind of winter camping in northern Vermont is the Shelburne Camping Area—where you can enjoy the best of old-fashioned outdoor winter camping in Vermont!
The Shelburne Camping Area has just about everything you could desire with winter camping in Vermont. The large campsites at this popular campground offer sewer, electricity, cable, and water hook-ups for both RVs and travel trailers. There are also wooded sites for those who want to brave the elements with some winter tent camping.
When you camp at Shelburne Camping Area, you will also have access to the Dutch Mill Family Restaurant, the camp store, and restrooms, showers, and modern hook-ups all on site, if you so desire.
2. Green River Reservoir State Park
Hyde Park
Do you have your heart set on some remote, rustic winter camping in Vermont? You will find no better place in the northern portion of the state for this kind of camping than at Green River Reservoir State Park.
This state park is particularly beloved because it’s actually not very well-known! Of the more than 50 state parks in Vermont, Green River Reservoir sees some of the least foot traffic year round. This makes it highly appealing to folks who want a quieter experience while winter camping in Vermont, away from crowds.
The one potential hitch in reaching Green River Reservoir State Park is that it requires paddling across the reservoir to reach the body of the state park. So if the water is frozen, such as if you are camping in the dead of winter, you will not be able to access it very easily.
However, if you plan a winter camping trip to Green River Reservoir closer to the beginning or end of the winter season, you will find a rustic, isolated camping experience that’s sure to delight! Get away from the bustle of everyday life and recharge at this remote winter getaway.
3. Lake Carmi State Park
Montgomery
Perched just about as far north in Vermont as you can go for some cold weather camping, Lake Carmi State Park is a fantastic destination for winter camping in Vermont. It boasts over 100 campsites, many of which are available for winter tent camping—making it the largest campground in the state.
So, if you are looking for some memorable winter camping at this gorgeous state park, you will have a good chance of grabbing a campsite here before they all fill up. Winter recreations such as ice fishing, snow play, and more are available once Lake Carmi itself freezes over.
This is a classic and fantastic spot to enjoy winter camping in Vermont, with relatively easy accessibility even after a snowfall. Just be prepared to haul your gear to your campsite, as RVs and cars are not permitted in the off season.
4. Little River State Park
Waterbury
Are you looking to kick off your adventure winter camping in Vermont as early as mid-November? Then you should consider a visit to Little River State Park! This popular state park has numerous camping options both in the on and off seasons, and just as many recreations to enjoy.
In addition to winter hiking, snowshoeing, and snow play, there is also cross-country skiing available at Little River State Park. You can also enjoy the sight of the Little River itself and the lakes in the winter as well. Or, if you feel so inclined, try your hand at some safe and enjoyable rifle deer hunting during designated times in portions of this state park, beginning in the off season as well.
There are so many things to enjoy when winter camping at Little River State Park. Many of the campsites are first come, first serve at this state park, so be sure to take advantage of the early-season timing and make the most of your trip here.
5. Ricker Pond State Park
Groton
Is your soul craving a classic outdoor, state park setting for winter camping in Vermont? Then you should check out Ricker Pond State Park! Ricker Pond State Park is one of seven state parks located in the Groton State Forest—and it allows for some great all seasons camping.
This beautiful state park offers plenty of tent camping options in all seasons. Some campgrounds may have more availability than others depending on the weather, the presence of winter storms, etc. But within this state park you will find lots of wonderful winter recreations including hiking, snowmobiling, and more.
You should also be aware that state parks in Vermont do not offer electric, water, or sewer hookups. So if these amenities are a dealbreaker for your winter camping in Vermont, you may find that a private campground, cabin, or lodge will be more enjoyable for your camping adventure.
6. Stillwater State Park
Groton
Another great option for winter camping in the Groton State Forest is Stillwater State Park. This gorgeous state park is the perfect option if you are seriously craving some waterfront views on your camping excursion.
This is a deeply loved state park well known for its cleanliness and quietude, attracting a great variety of campers from inside and outside the country. Though there are no electric or water hookups, this is a great spot to pitch a tent in the winter and enjoy the pause of being out in nature.
At Stillwater State Park’s campsites, you will have access to bathhouses and indoor showers, as well as to the park’s numerous trails which are another popular attraction here.
7. Underhill State Park
Underhill
If you pay a visit to Underhill State Park for some winter camping, you should come with a plan for some winter hiking. Underhill State Park is situated within the Mount Mansfield State Forest on the western edge of a mountain slope, so sumitting this mountain is a popular outdoor recreation that attracts campers from all over.
If you are interested in hiking in winter, with its many health benefits and the enjoyment of the colder season, this is a great place to try it out! You can take your time and go at your own pace to reach the top. You will find campsites at every level of Underhill State Park, so you can pitch camp whenever you need to as you ascend the mountain.
Coziest Winter Camping in Vermont’s Central Region
8. Mount Ascutney State Park
Windsor
“Volcano” is not a word often associated with the state of Vermont. But did you know there is a completely inactive volcano in this gorgeous state? That’s right, Mount Ascutney is actually part of a chain of inactive volcanoes in this neck of the northeast. So, what better place for some cozy winter camping in Vermont’s central region than at Ascutney State Park!
Boasting the status of one of the state’s oldest state parks, Ascutney State Park and Mount Ascutney remain to this day one of the most popular places for visiting and camping in all seasons in Vermont.
There are plenty of hiking trails to enjoy here, as well as popular campgrounds, fire towers to climb for breathtaking views of the scenery, and much more.
9. Gifford Woods State Park
Killington
Though it may be best known for its old-growth forest having incredible, indescribable fall foliage sights, Gifford Woods State Park is also a lesser-known spot for some great winter camping in Vermont! Once the leaves have lost their majestic autumn splendor, you can still enjoy the beauty of the forest in the wintertime.
Pitch your gear in one of the numerous lean-tos in this state park and hike to your heart’s content among the trees. Enjoy some snowshoeing, snow play, and other wintertime fun. Or you might hit the ski slopes and test your skills against the elements.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to cozy winter camping opportunities and wintertime fun at Gifford Woods State Park!
10. Bomoseen State Park
Fair Haven
With its sprawling acreage spanning over 3,000 acres through the Taconic Mountains and along the shores of Lake Bomoseen, Bomoseen State Park is a very popular spot for winter camping in Vermont.
There are lots of gorgeous trails to hike throughout this state park, and campsites of all sorts in the woods, along the lakeshore, and in the state park’s many open fields. With over 50 campsites available, you are sure to find one that fits your needs perfectly. Best of all, in the off-season, these sites are free!
Various types of snowplay, winter hiking, ice fishing, and more await at Bomoseen State Park. Come prepared for a chilly but delightful winter camping experience at this majestic and popular state park.
Coziest Winter Camping in Vermont’s Southern Region
11. Woodford State Park
Woodford
Looking for a woodland escape that will offer some unforgettable winter camping in Vermont? Then Woodford State Park is calling your name! Swooping around Adams Reservoir on a graceful mountain plateau, this stunning state park boasts a lofty campground at the soaring elevation of 2,400 feet. Talk about your perfect panoramic views!
Winter hiking is particularly popular at this state park. You can walk or snowshoe the nearly three miles of trail around the lake, soaking up the stillness of winter and the majestic views the park offers. You can also enjoy various types of snow play in this state park as well.
There are numerous campsites scattered throughout Woodford State Park, both at its campgrounds and throughout the park itself. With its many camping amenities, gorgeous fall foliage, and several winter accommodations, this is truly a hidden gem for winter camping in Vermont.
12. Molly State Park
Marlboro
Another great state park option for winter camping in Vermont, Molly State Park offers a fantastic balance of outdoor recreation and nearby urban amenities. There are 23 tent and RV sites at this state park, many of which can be accessed in the wintertime.
Within the boundaries of Molly State Park itself, hiking is of particular appeal. This state park is well known for its breathtaking views and vistas, which can be enjoyed on foot or from the fire towers allowing a stunning panorama of the mountains and valleys.
Outside of the park, you will find some fun shops and museums nearby, as well as restaurants and other accommodations. If you need a break from the chill of winter camping in Vermont, you will find the best of both worlds at Molly State Park.
Wrapping up the Coziest Winter Camping in Vermont
Ready to strike off on a wonderful adventure winter camping in Vermont? Before you hit the road, be sure to brush up on your winter camping know-how!
Check out our winter camping checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a safe, fun time while winter camping in Vermont—or just about anywhere!
- About the Author
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Renee Dugan is a lifelong writer, professional editor, and lover of the great outdoors.
A Midwest girl born and raised, Renee has always enjoyed the deep, life-giving inspiration that connection with nature brings.
In addition to channeling the awe of outdoor life into her prolific novel-writing career, she currently enjoys sharing it with her son and spreading knowledge of safe, fun outdoor life with Beyond the Tent readers and anyone she can help face-to-face.
Renee can be reached at renee.s.dugan@gmail.com