Vermont is known for its pristine lakes, winding rivers, and lush green mountains, making it an ideal destination for campers who want to combine outdoor adventure with a refreshing swim. For those seeking private lake and river campgrounds with swimming beaches VT offers a variety of options, from intimate campgrounds to expansive state parks. These locations provide access to some of the state's most beautiful waterways and sandy or grassy shorelines.
Whether you prefer a quiet lake nestled in the Green Mountains or a lively river setting, the following list highlights 12 campgrounds and parks across Vermont. Each entry is based on publicly available data including ratings, review counts, and location details. Use this guide to compare options and plan your next camping trip.
★★★★☆ 4.2 · 78 reviews
Lakewood Campgrounds is a campground located in Swanton, VT. It holds a rating of 4.2 based on 78 reviews. The address is 122 Champlain St, Swanton, VT 05488. This campground provides a base for exploring the Lake Champlain region and is categorized as a Campground. Its location in northern Vermont offers convenient access to the lake and surrounding outdoor recreation areas.
Address: Lakewood Campgrounds, 122 Champlain St, Swanton, VT 05488, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 2,262 reviews
ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is a science museum in Burlington, VT, not a campground. It has a rating of 4.6 from 2,262 reviews and is located at 1 College St, Burlington, VT 05401. While it is not a camping location, it is included here as a lakeside attraction on Lake Champlain. Visitors can learn about the lake's ecology and enjoy waterfront views.
Address: ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, 1 College St, Burlington, VT 05401, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 746 reviews
Emerald Lake State Park is a state park in East Dorset, VT, with a rating of 4.7 from 746 reviews. It is located at 65 Emerald Lake Ln, East Dorset, VT 05253. The park offers camping and access to Emerald Lake, providing opportunities for swimming and water activities. Its scenic setting in the Green Mountains makes it a popular destination for campers and day visitors.
Address: Emerald Lake State Park, 65 Emerald Lake Ln, East Dorset, VT 05253, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 435 reviews
Little River State Park is a state park in Waterbury, VT, rated 4.6 with 435 reviews. The address is Water Reservoir, 3444 Little River Rd, Waterbury, VT 05676. Situated around a reservoir, the park offers camping and water-based recreation, including swimming. It is located near the Waterbury Reservoir, providing a tranquil environment for outdoor enthusiasts.
Address: Little River State Park, Water Reservoir, 3444 Little River Rd, Waterbury, VT 05676, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 357 reviews
Crystal Lake State Park is a state park in Barton, VT, with a rating of 4.7 and 357 reviews. Its address is 96 Bellwater Ave, Barton, VT 05822. The park features a swimming beach on Crystal Lake and offers camping facilities. It is a well-regarded destination in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom for lakefront relaxation and recreation.
Address: Crystal Lake State Park, 96 Bellwater Ave, Barton, VT 05822, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 413 reviews
Lake St. Catherine State Park is a state park in Poultney, VT, rated 4.6 with 413 reviews. Located at 3034 VT-30, Poultney, VT 05764, the park provides camping and a swimming beach on Lake St. Catherine. It is a popular spot for families and outdoor lovers seeking lake access in southern Vermont.
Address: Lake St. Catherine State Park, 3034 VT-30, Poultney, VT 05764, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 336 reviews
Silver Lake State Park is a state park in Barnard, VT, with a rating of 4.7 from 336 reviews. The address is 20 State Park Beach Rd, Barnard, VT 05031. The park offers camping and a swimming beach on Silver Lake, set against a backdrop of rural Vermont countryside. It is a quiet retreat for campers and swimmers.
Address: Silver Lake State Park, 20 State Park Beach Rd, Barnard, VT 05031, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 251 reviews
Brewster River Campground is a campground in Jeffersonville, VT, with a rating of 4.8 from 251 reviews. It is located at 289 Campground Dr, Jeffersonville, VT 05464. The campground sits along the Brewster River, offering a riverside setting for camping. Its high rating suggests a positive experience for visitors seeking a private campground with river access.
Address: Brewster River Campground, 289 Campground Dr, Jeffersonville, VT 05464, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 244 reviews
Lowell Lake State Park is a state park in Londonderry, VT, rated 4.7 with 244 reviews. The address is 260 Ice House Rd, Londonderry, VT 05148. The park provides camping and a swimming area on Lowell Lake. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic lake views, ideal for campers who enjoy swimming and paddling.
Address: Lowell Lake State Park, 260 Ice House Rd, Londonderry, VT 05148, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 244 reviews
Lake Champagne Campground is an RV park in Randolph Center, VT, with a rating of 4.7 from 244 reviews. Located at 53 Lake Champagne Dr, Randolph Center, VT 05061, it offers camping facilities near a lake. The campground is a good option for RV travelers seeking a lakeside setting with swimming opportunities.
Address: Lake Champagne Campground, 53 Lake Champagne Dr, Randolph Center, VT 05061, United States
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★★★★☆ 4.4 · 312 reviews
Lake Carmi State Park is a state park in Franklin, VT, with a rating of 4.4 and 312 reviews. Its address is 460 Marsh Farm Rd, Franklin, VT 05457. The park features a swimming beach on Lake Carmi and offers camping. It is a large park in northern Vermont, popular for water recreation and family camping.
Address: Lake Carmi State Park, 460 Marsh Farm Rd, Franklin, VT 05457, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 150 reviews
Green River Reservoir State Park is a state park in Hyde Park, VT, rated 4.8 with 150 reviews. The address is 1394 Green River Dam Rd, Hyde Park, VT 05655. The park is centered on a reservoir and offers camping with access to swimming and paddling. Its remote feel and high rating make it a standout for nature lovers.
Address: Green River Reservoir State Park, 1394 Green River Dam Rd, Hyde Park, VT 05655, United States
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How We Selected These Places
This list was compiled by reviewing publicly available data for campgrounds and state parks in Vermont that offer access to lake or river swimming areas. Locations were selected based on their category (campground or state park), geographic distribution across Vermont, and user ratings and review volumes from the supplied dataset. No personal visits, tests, or customer interviews were conducted. The goal is to present a transparent overview of options for campers seeking private lake and river campgrounds with swimming beaches VT. Each location's description is grounded solely in the provided structured data, and missing details have been omitted.
Tips
When planning a camping trip to Vermont's lake and river campgrounds, consider the season: summer offers the warmest water for swimming, while spring and fall may be cooler. Check each location's specific rules regarding swimming areas, as some may have designated beaches. Reservations are often recommended during peak months. Pack water shoes for rocky or uneven lake bottoms, and always supervise children near water. Weather in Vermont can change quickly, so bring layers and rain gear. Respect wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve these natural areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there private campgrounds with swimming beaches in Vermont?
- Yes. Vermont has private campgrounds and state parks that offer swimming beaches on lakes and rivers. Examples include Brewster River Campground (riverside) and Lake Champagne Campground (lakeside), along with several state parks like Crystal Lake State Park and Silver Lake State Park that feature designated swimming areas.
- Which Vermont state park has the highest rating for camping and swimming?
- Based on the supplied data, Green River Reservoir State Park has a rating of 4.8 from 150 reviews, and Brewster River Campground also has a 4.8 rating from 251 reviews. Both are highly rated for their natural settings and water access.
- Do Vermont campgrounds with swimming beaches require reservations?
- Many campgrounds and state parks in Vermont recommend or require reservations during peak season (late spring through early fall). It is advisable to check with each location directly, as policies vary. The supplied data does not include reservation details.
- Can I swim in the rivers at Vermont campgrounds?
- Some campgrounds, like Brewster River Campground, are located along rivers, which may offer swimming opportunities. However, always check local conditions and designated swimming areas, as river currents can be unpredictable. The supplied data does not specify swimming safety or designated areas.
- Are there family-friendly campgrounds with beaches in Vermont?
- Several state parks, such as Lake St. Catherine State Park and Lake Carmi State Park, are known for family-friendly camping with swimming beaches. Private campgrounds like Lakewood Campgrounds also cater to families. Ratings and review counts suggest these are popular choices.
Conclusion
Vermont's private lake and river campgrounds with swimming beaches offer a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation. From the shores of Lake Champlain to the tranquil reservoirs and rivers, there are options for every type of camper. Whether you choose a state park with a sandy beach or a private campground along a river, you'll find plenty of opportunities to swim, camp, and enjoy Vermont's natural beauty. Use this guide to compare locations and start planning your next getaway.
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