Curious about canoe camping in Vermont? In the winter, skiers sometimes “earn their turns” by hiking up a mountain to ski down and create first tracks on the fresh snow while cruising down. So what’s the summer equivalent of earning your turns? Well, it just might be camping in a place that’s a little harder to get to than your typical drive-in camping site. These seven sites with paddle-in camping in Vermont will ensure you have a remote location on the water, not to mention give you bragging rights of having earned your site.

1. Little River State Park, Waterbury
Little River State Park, Water Reservoir, 3444 Little River Rd, Waterbury Village Historic District, VT 05676, USA
Tripadvisor/management
For this camping in VT spot, there are 27 remote campsites along the Waterbury Reservoir shoreline. While you can hike in, it's much easier to boat. After all, you'll need to bring water and all your other supplies. Plus, they are first come, first serve so it's way more fun to find a spot from the gorgeous reservoir via boat! Learn more about visiting Little River State Park.
2. Burton Island State Park, St. Albans Bay
Burton Island State Park, 2714 Hathaway Point Rd, St. Albans Town, VT 05478, USA
Tripadvisor/Patti D
This island is a family-favorite destination. Whether you have your own boat or take the 10-minute passenger ferry from Kamp Kill Kare State Park, this just may become your favorite place in Vermont. Oh, and the sunsets are incredible! Get more details on paddle-in camping in Vermont at Burton Island State Park.
3. Knight Island State Park, North Hero
Knight Island State Park, North Hero, VT 05474, USA
Tripadvisor/suzy6723
Go for the day or spend the "knight" at Knight Island State Park. There is a small beach with boat, kayak, and canoe rentals, as well as walking trails and BBQ sites. There are six lean-tos and one camping site here for you to enjoy at this paddle-in camping site. Discover more about Knight Island State Park.

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4. Kettle Pond, Groton State Forest
Kettle Pond, Vermont 05667, USA
Flickr/YankeeScents Potpourri
There are fantastic hikes in the area and the views of Kettle Pond from Owl's Head are fantastic. Why not rough it and do a little primitive camping in VT at this little slice of heaven? Take a look at what else you can do within Groton State Forest.
5. Osmore Pond in New Discovery State Park, Groton
Osmore Pond, Peacham, VT 05046, USA
Flickr/Dick Mansfield
While you can technically hike to one of the four lean-tos and three campsites, it's way more fun to boat there. One of the best campsites in Vermont, the park offers a "boat to remote" package which includes overnight camping and boat rental. Learn more about the lovely Osmore Pond.
6. Woods Island State Park, St. Albans
Woods Island State Park, 1 Woods Island, Swanton, VT 05488, USA
Flickr/Mark Goebel
You can bring the family pup to the beautiful Woods Island State Park! There are five remote sites and they make for some great canoe camping in Vermont. Read further on about Woods Island State Park.
7. Green River Reservoir State Park, Hyde Park
Green River Reservoir State Park, 1394 Green River Dam Rd, Hyde Park, VT 05655, USA
Tripadvisor/Liz L
You've got to earn your camping site here by paddling to it, and the journey is the best part. You'll only find remote camping at the Green River Reservoir State Park, and you'll fall in love with the pristine and peaceful surroundings. Get more details on paddle-in camping in Vermont at Green River Reservoir State Park.

Where are your favorite paddle-in camping spots in VT? What do you think are the best campsites in Vermont? Tell us in the comments!

 

If these sites for canoe camping in Vermont sound appealing and you want more, check these 8 off-the-grid destinations in Vermont.

 

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More to Explore

The Best of Vermont

Rachel Raimondi | April 14, 2023

What are the best small towns in Vermont?

Take a break from canoe camping in Vermont and visit some of the best small towns in Vermont:

  • Woodstock: Located in Windsor County, Woodstock oozes both charm and sophistication within its shopping, dining, and entertainment offerings, such as F.H. Gillingham and Sons, the Prince and Pauper Restaurant, and the Billings Farm and Museum.
  • Stowe: This town is great for just about anyone. Not only do you have the highest peak in the state at Mount Mansfield, but there are also snow sports available at the Stowe Mountain Resort. If neither of these are up your alley, there are also plenty of things to do downtown, such as galleries, museums, and dining.
  • Shelburne: With the beautiful Lake Champlain as a backdrop, this town in Chittenden County is truly picturesque. Whether it’s to visit the Shelburne Museum, the Vermont Teddy Bear Company, the beach, or any of the town's other awesome attractions, there is plenty to do and see here.

 

What are the most beautiful hikes in Vermont? 

Take in the beauty of the Green Mountain State through some of the most beautiful hikes in Vermont:

  • Bingham Falls: Located near Stowe, this trail is only a half mile out and back. It’s a great way to see an awesome 40-foot waterfall and its surrounding beautiful geology and greenery.
  • Bucklin Trail: This trail in Mendon is seven miles out and back with a 2,400-foot elevation gain. While not for beginners, the destination, Killington Peak, is well worth all the work. From its vantage point, you can see not only the Green Mountains, but also the White Mountains of New Hampshire, and the Adirondack Mountains of New York.
  • Quechee Gorge Trail: This is a great beginner/family-friendly trail in Hartford. It’s only 1.3 miles and will provide ample views of the park, waterfalls, and Ottauquechee Dam.

 

What are the best restaurants in Vermont?

Just because you are camping in VT doesn't mean you can't treat yourself to a dinner out. Head to some of the best restaurants in Vermont:

  • Michael’s on the Hill: This modern European restaurant is located in Waterbury. Grab some tenderloin or roasted Faroe Island salmon while you dine in a 1920s farmhouse.
  • Roots: Located in Rutland, at this American eatery, you can get lunch or dinner. Be sure to try the risotto or VT-raised ribeye.
  • Ye Olde Tavern: Originally built in 1790, this tavern is located in Manchester. Take a step back in time while eating duck or Atlantic salmon.

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