Vermont is a state loaded with outdoor activities and for those of us who hate ending our days when the sun goes down, camping is the perfect way to extend your adventure. So if your idea of a perfect summer day is time at the beach, these state parks offer both sandy shores and beautiful camping sites. Get ready for plenty of fun in the sun at these Green Mountain State beach campgrounds, where you can go beach camping in Vermont!

1. Emerald Lake State Park
Emerald Lake State Park, 65 Emerald Lake Ln, East Dorset, VT 05253, USA
Google Images/Rick Bateman
Google Images/Jaime Doub
Known for its deep emerald-colored waters when viewed from above, Emerald Lake is a sought-after swimming spot. The state park is also a prime spot for paddling with boat rentals available. Campsites range from tent and RV sites to primitive lean-tos. Plan a little lake beach getaway at Emerald Lake State Park. You can get great campsites at the beach! Address: 65 Emerald Lake Lane, East Dorset, VT 05253.
2. Camp Plymouth State Park
Camp Plymouth State Park, 2008 Scout Camp Rd, Ludlow, VT 05149, USA
TripAdvisor/switchi21
Google Images/Theresa Estrada
Enjoy a dip in the clear waters of Buffalo Brook and then stretch out on the sandy beach to relax. Kids will love the nearby playground to take a break from the water play. At Camp Plymouth State Park there are lean-to sites for group camping and four fully furnished cottages available to rent. If you’re in Ludlow and looking for campgrounds on the water near me, this is the place! Address: 2008 Scout Camp Road, Ludlow, VT 05149.
3. Lake St. Catherine State Park
Lake St. Catherine State Park, 3034 VT-30, Poultney, VT 05764, USA
Google Images/Robert Gossman
Google Images/Bob Ricketson
Lake St. Catherine is a picturesque spot to spend time. Your day on the water will be action-packed with fishing, swimming, and boat rentals. The park also features a nature center, hiking trails, a playground, and a snack bar. Spend the night on one of the tents, RV, or lean-to sites to extend your time on the lake. It’s a great spot to go beach camping in Vermont. Address: 3034 VT Route 30, Poultney, VT 05764.
Bomoseen State Park, 22 Cedar Mountain Rd, Fair Haven, VT 05735, USA
Google Images/Bob Ricketson

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Google Images/Seth Oatway
Lake Bomoseen is the largest lake entirely within the state of Vermont. This natural gem is a summertime favorite for those looking for a day at the beach. From exploring the lake by rented boat to just splashing around, you'll love Bomoseen State Park. Camping facilities include tents, RV, and lean-to sites. This is a great place to go camping in Vermont. Address: 22 Cedar Mountain Road, Castleton, VT 05743.
5. Elmore State Park
Elmore State Park, 856 VT-12, Elmore, VT 05661, USA
Google Images/Eugene Raymond
Google Images/Ryan Gardner
Known as one of the most beautiful lakes in Vermont, Lake Elmore is an oasis for summertime recreation. Take a hike up the mountain to check out the fire tower views and then reward your efforts with some time on the lake. Swim, boat, fish, and splash the day away. Camping options at Elmore State Park include tent, RV, and lean-to sites. These are great campsites at the beach! Address: 856 VT Route 12, Lake Elmore, VT 05657.
6. Lake Carmi State Park
Lake Carmi State Park, 460 Marsh Farm Rd, Franklin, VT 05457, USA
Google Images/Jennifer Geertsma
Google Images/Manuel Colin
With a 1375-acre surface area, Lake Carmi is the fourth-biggest freshwater lake in Vermont. It has a reputation for stellar sunsets and a lovely wooded campground. Spend the day on or in the water and then sleep under the stars in the largest state campground. Tent, RV, and lean-to sites, as well as cabin rentals, are available. It’s a beautiful place to go camping in Vermont. Address: 460 Marsh Farm Road, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.
7. Brighton State Park
Brighton State Park, 102 State Park Rd, Island Pond, VT 05846, USA
Google Images/Pierre Boucher
Google Images/Hannah Ferguson
The scenery at Island Pond only adds to the charm of this beach campground. Kids will stay busy with swimming, boating, a playground, a nature center, and a theater at Brighton State Park. Many campsites are waterside, including five cabins, RV, tent, and lean-to sites. We love Vermont beach camping at this great site! Address: 102 State Park Road, Island Pond, VT 05846

Which of these beach campgrounds have you visited? Do you like to go beach camping in Vermont? Let us know in the comments below!

If you’re just looking for a fabulous beach day, check out this lake park that has sandy shores that rival the coast.

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More to Explore

Beach Camping In Vermont

Megan McDonald | May 24, 2023

Is wild camping allowed in Vermont?

Wild camping, also known as dispersed camping or primitive camping, is generally not allowed in Vermont. The state has regulations in place that restrict camping to designated campgrounds and established campsites. These designated areas typically provide amenities such as fire rings, picnic tables, and restroom facilities to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience. It's important to respect these regulations and only camp in designated areas to protect the environment and preserve the natural beauty of Vermont. If you're looking for a more rustic camping experience, there are numerous state parks and national forests in Vermont that offer campsites with varying levels of amenities, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while still following the rules and regulations in place.

How many state parks can you camp in Vermont?

In Vermont, there are several state parks where camping is permitted. Out of the 55 state parks in the state, around 40 of them offer camping facilities. These campgrounds provide various options for overnight stays, including tent camping, RV camping, and cabin rentals. Each campground has its own amenities and features, such as picnic areas, hiking trails, swimming areas, and boat launches, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Vermont while camping. It's advisable to check the specific campground's availability and reservation requirements in advance, as some sites may require reservations during peak seasons.

Are there a lot of places to go beach camping in Vermont?

Vermont is not widely known for its beach camping opportunities due to its lack of oceanfront coastline. However, the state has a few beach camping options along its lakeshores. Some of the popular destinations for beach camping in Vermont include:

  • Burton Island State Park: Located on Lake Champlain, Burton Island State Park offers beach camping with beautiful sandy shores. Campers can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking on the beach while immersing themselves in the scenic lake views.
  • Grand Isle State Park: Also situated on Lake Champlain, Grand Isle State Park features a sandy beach area where visitors can set up camp and enjoy the waterfront. The park offers recreational activities like swimming, fishing, and boating.
  • Alburg Dunes State Park: Another beach camping option on Lake Champlain, Alburg Dunes State Park boasts a natural sand dune beach. Campers can take advantage of the peaceful shoreline, go for walks along the beach, or relax and soak up the serene lake atmosphere.

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