Vermont summers are short, sweet, and made for outdoor adventures. From quiet lakeside escapes to wooded mountain retreats, the Green Mountain State has no shortage of beautiful campsites that fill up fast in July and August. Whether you’re in an RV, pitching a tent, or towing a pop-up camper, here are some of the most popular (and scenic!) places to camp across Vermont in mid to late summer.

1. Grand Isle State Park (Grand Isle, VT)

This popular island destination on Lake Champlain offers 115 tent/RV sites and 36 lean-tos, perfect for waterfront views and warm-weather relaxation. Enjoy swimming, paddling, fishing, and stunning sunsets over the lake.

Best for: Families, water lovers, and RV campers
Amenities: Boat rentals, playgrounds, coin-op showers, and easy access to Burlington by ferry or car

2. Smugglers’ Notch State Park (Stowe, VT)

Nestled between mountain peaks, this rugged and scenic campground offers tent and lean-to sites just minutes from hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives. It’s also close to local breweries and shops in nearby Stowe.

Best for: Tent campers and hikers
Popular mid-summer activity: Hiking the Long Trail or visiting Bingham Falls

3. Little River State Park (Waterbury, VT)

Set along the Waterbury Reservoir, Little River is a local favorite for mid-summer getaways with both wooded and waterfront campsites. With 81 tent/RV sites and 20 lean-tos, it’s large enough to feel lively but still relaxing.

Best for: Campers with kayaks, paddleboards, and kids
Don’t miss: The park’s historical hiking trails that take you past old cellar holes from 1800s homesteads

4. Half Moon Pond State Park (Hubbardton, VT)

A peaceful spot tucked in the forest, this park has tent and lean-to sites, along with camper cabins for a cozier experience. It’s a quieter alternative to the busier parks.

Best for: Quiet retreats and rustic campers
Bonus: It's part of Bomoseen State Park, so you get access to two parks in one

 5. Button Bay State Park (Vergennes, VT)

Located on the western edge of Vermont, Button Bay overlooks Lake Champlain and offers tent/RV sites, lean-tos, and cabins. With scenic walking trails and lake access, it’s a great mix of nature and accessibility.

Best for: RVs, families, and first-time campers
Highlight: The swimming pool and interpretive nature center are great for kids

6. Green River Reservoir State Park (Hyde Park, VT)

This is a paddlers’ paradise, accessible only by non-motorized boats. Campsites are only reachable by water, making it one of the most peaceful, remote experiences you’ll find.

Best for: Experienced campers, backcountry paddlers
Tip: Plan ahead. Sites are primitive and carry-in/carry-out only

7. Jamaica State Park (Jamaica, VT)

Set on the West River, this campground is ideal for tubing, hiking, and forest bathing. It has 41 tent/RV sites and 18 lean-tos, with the iconic Hamilton Falls hike just a short distance away.

Best for: Weekend getaways and water activities
Tip: Check the tubing schedule, some weekends the river is perfect for floating

8. Brighton State Park (Island Pond, VT)

One of the more remote state parks in the Northeast Kingdom, this campground offers peace and quiet alongside a pristine lake. A great spot for those looking to escape the summer crowds.

Best for: Tent camping and solitude seekers
Activities: Canoeing, wildlife watching, and stargazing

Tips for Camping in Vermont in Late Summer

-Reserve early: Popular spots book months in advance for weekends in July and August.

-Pack layers: Vermont evenings can still be chilly, even in August.
-Watch for bugs: Bring eco-friendly bug spray. Mosquitoes love Vermont summers too.
-Respect nature: Most parks follow “Leave No Trace” principles. Pack it in, pack it out!
 

Final Thoughts

Camping in Vermont during July and August is a rite of passage for locals and visitors alike. With so many beautiful options, it’s just a matter of choosing your vibe. Wherever you end up, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty, starry skies, and that sweet Vermont summer magic.

 

Celebrate Fourth of July Weekend in Chittenden County 🎆

Looking for the perfect way to celebrate the Fourth of July around Burlington? From lakeside fireworks to small-town parades, here’s your go-to guide for a festive holiday weekend.

Start the celebrations early on Thursday, July 3, at Burlington’s Waterfront Park for one of Vermont’s largest displays. Arrive by 5 PM to enjoy live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, all capped off with a dazzling fireworks show as the sun sets.

On Friday, July 4, take the morning to check out a local town parade followed by live music and fireworks at bay-area parks like in Colchester. There’s plenty of space for lawn chairs, food trucks, and community fun, making this a great day for families.

For a more refined experience, head to a museum or outdoor concert venue such as the Shelburne Museum, where you can enjoy a symphony concert followed by fireworks in a relaxed, scenic setting.

If carnival rides, inflatables, and big-bang family fun are your style, make your way to the fairgrounds in places like Essex Junction or St. Albans on Friday evening. Expect games, food stalls, and a lively fireworks finale!

Feel-Good Extras:

• Join a fun run or community 5K early on the Fourth, often followed by parades or pancake breakfasts.
• Bring blankets, bug spray, and snacks. Some venues recommend arriving early or taking shuttle buses to avoid parking hassles.
• Keep an eye out for town cookouts, live music at local parks, and kid-friendly activities like face painting and balloon artists.

No matter your style, whether you're strolling the waterfront, cheering on your town parade, or enjoying a family carnival, Greater Burlington offers a vibrant and memorable Fourth of July celebration!

 

Summer in the greater Burlington area is packed with events, music, and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. One favorite tradition is the Summer Concert Series at Snow Farm Vineyard, where locals and visitors gather for live music and wine every Thursday evening from late May through early September. It’s a scenic, relaxing way to soak up summer in the Champlain Islands.

In South Burlington, Veteran’s Memorial Park hosts the SB “Nite Out” music series on select Thursdays in June and July. These family-friendly evenings feature live performances, food trucks, games, and themed nights, making it a favorite weekly tradition for many.

Colchester also offers summer concerts at Lower Bayside Park. These free events happen Thursday evenings by Malletts Bay and are perfect for bringing a blanket, picnic dinner, and enjoying the music with a view.

In Burlington, live music fills the weekends with events like the South End Get Down, food truck rallies, and performances at local spots like Burlington Tap & Smokehouse. 

If you're more in the mood for fresh produce and a quiet morning, Sam Mazza’s farm stand is a summer must-visit for berries, baked goods, flowers, and more. Shelburne’s local farm stands and farmers’ markets are also worth exploring, offering everything from veggies to Vermont-made products.

Memorial Park and other local green spaces host smaller concerts, pop-up events, and community nights throughout the summer. These neighborhood gatherings are a great way to connect with friends and neighbors while enjoying music and food under the open sky.

Whether you're planning your weekends or just exploring what the community has to offer, summer in this area is full of charm, energy, and ways to feel at home.