Prepare for an incredible weekend at the 2024 Vermont Blade and Camp! We’ll start on Thursday, June 27th, at Brattleboro Skatepark in Southern Vermont, featuring an exciting selection of rural skateparks and stunning swimming holes. Don’t miss out!
Skate, Swim, and Explore the Green Mountain State
Mark your calendar for the 6th Annual Vermont Blade and Camp from June 27th to July 1st, 2024. Enjoy a great lineup of rural skateparks and scenic swimming holes. Please keep reading to find out about changes to this year’s event.
What to Expect
The event welcomes both inline and quad skaters. Each day promises an exhilarating adventure, with visits to two skateparks followed by the exploration of Vermont’s stunning swimming holes. Brace yourself for a remarkable experience, as we encounter waterfalls, cliff jumps, and glacial lakes. To ensure an unforgettable camping weekend, our comprehensive guide has you covered. It provides essential information to immerse yourself in the complete Vermont experience. Discover details about the featured parks, alternative skateparks for the adventurous, recommended eateries and food options, must-see tourist attractions, and much more! This article aims to equip you with everything you need for an extraordinary weekend. Get ready to make lifelong memories!
Changes to Camping and Routes
This year brings significant changes to our camping arrangements and routes. We no longer have access to the large property in Stockbridge, where we camped for the first five years. Instead, we will camp at Jan Welch’s parents’ property in Lyndonville on Thursday and Friday nights. We will split the group between two camping areas in Goshen, Vermont, for Saturday and Sunday nights. These sites belong to Myles Cotter-Sparrow and Josh and Michelle Davis, respectively, and are located a couple of miles apart.
RSVP and Camping Assignments
Your RSVP is essential for this event, as it helps us plan the weekend and assign camping sites for Saturday and Sunday nights. While camping is free, we provide portable toilets funded by donations.
Donations for Facilities
This year, we will be asking for donations to cover the costs of renting portable toilets for all three camping locations, which is close to $400. Your contributions will directly support the comfort and convenience of all participants. You can make donations through Venmo, using 1767 as the last four digits of the phone number if prompted. Alternatively, you can donate via PayPal by clicking here to directly access the PayPal donation page.
We anticipate a high turnout this year, with many first-time attendees joining us and some special guests. Get ready for an incredible gathering filled with new experiences, old favorites, and the contagious energy of passionate skaters.
FAQ
- What must I bring to have an enjoyable camping trip in Vermont?
- What should I expect in terms of bugs?
- How is Vermont’s weather during the event?
- Are dogs allowed?
- Can I eat the berries?
Please note that this article is constantly updated with the latest information throughout the month and during the event. Any changes to the itinerary will be reflected here.
Thursday, June 27th
The Vermont Blade and Camp will kick off at Perseverance Skatepark in Brattleboro, Vermont. From there, we’ll continue our journey by driving to Rusty Bearings Skatepark in West Lebanon, New Hampshire, which is approximately 64 miles away (1 hr). Before departing Brattleboro, be sure to explore a unique DIY skatepark situated on an abandoned bridge over the Connecticut River. After enjoying the skate session at Rusty Bones, we’ll make our way to Lyndonville, which is around 68 miles away (1 hr 4 min), to cool off with a swim and set up our campsite. Along the way, we’ve included some food recommendations in West Lebanon and along the road to Stockbridge, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience during our adventure.
Related post -> Best Aggressive Inline Skates of 2024
Perseverance Skatepark – Brattleboro, VT
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Meet at Perseverance Skatepark atop the Brattleboro Ski Hill, a historic volunteer-run ski area to kick off the action at this fantastic concrete park. With diverse features, including hubba ledges, stairs, handrails, flat rail, euro gap, a-frame with rail, manual pads, banks, quarter pipes, and a thrilling bowl, there’s something for every skater to enjoy.
Perseverance Skatepark
157 Memorial Park Drive, Brattleboro, VT 05301
DIY Bridge Skatepark – Brattleboro, VT
Before leaving Brattleboro, take a moment to explore a hidden gem—a DIY skatepark perched on an abandoned bridge next to the USN Seabees Bridge that crosses the Connecticut River, connecting Brattleboro and West Chesterfield, New Hampshire. It’s a unique spot worth checking out.
USN Seabees Bridge
NH-9, West Chesterfield, NH 03466
Rusty Bearings – West Lebanon, NH
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: We’ll regroup at Rusty Bearings Skatepark in West Lebanon, New Hampshire, a spacious 16,000 sq. ft. facility. It’s conveniently located just an hour north of Brattleboro via Interstate 91. This skatepark offers diverse terrain, including bowls and transitions, providing an exciting experience for skaters of all levels. We’ll then stop at the stunning swimming hole near the West Hartford Bridge on the White River along the way. Afterward, we’ll continue our adventure with a 1 hr 4 min drive to Lyndonville, Vermont, where we’ll set up camp at Jan Welch’s home.
Rusty Bearings Skatepark
Riverside Park, West Lebanon, NH 03784
Food Recommendations Lebanon/White River Junction
- Big Fatties BBQ – 186 S Main St, White River Junction, VT 05001
- Upper Valley Food Coop – 193 N Main St, White River Junction, VT 05001
- Trail Break Taps + Tacos – 129 S Main St ste 100, White River Junction, VT 05001
Related post -> The 15 Best Helmets for Inline Skating
Swimming at Thetford Center and Union Village
The swimming hole options for Thursday will take us about 30 minutes north of Rusty Bearings Skatepark and seem straight out of a movie. The first, Sandy Beach, is easy to find with a sign at the entrance. It’s located just a half-mile from Route 113 on Buzzell Bridge Road. Here, you’ll find a small sandy beach and a large swimming area calm enough for laps, resembling a serene pond.
For a more adventurous spot, continue another 0.6 miles down Buzzell Bridge Road toward Union Village to reach the Chutes. This area is known for its popularity with skinny dippers, despite the clear signs prohibiting nude bathing. The Chutes feature a stream that cascades over rocks and a small waterfall, set in a secluded ravine surrounded by evergreens, offering some privacy.
Camping in Lyndonville, Vermont
We’ll be camping at Jan Eric Welch’s parents’ property in Lyndonville, Vermont, on Thursday and Friday nights. The site offers beautiful views of Burke Mountain and has been prepared with multiple areas suitable for pitching tents and setting up hammocks in the woods. If you’re a fan of disc golf, you’ll be pleased to know there are five baskets on the property. Feel free to bring your discs and enjoy a few rounds.
READ IMPORTANT: As you turn into the driveway, there is a pine tree on the left with some open spaces on either side where you can park. These spots can accommodate approximately 5 to 7 cars. Keep in mind that the driveway is designated for vans and campers. As you approach the end of the driveway, a well-lit path cuts through the grass and leads to the main parking area along the row of trees on the left side of the property. Remember to drive slower, especially when passing between the hazelnut bush and plum tree. The best camping spots are in the trees.
Camping Location
767 Cotton Road
Lyndonville, VT 05851
Food Recommendations Lyndonville
- Estella’s Bar & Grill – 774 Main St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
- Miss Lyndonville Diner – 686 Broad St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
- Lyndon House of Pizza – 93 Main St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
- Full Belly Deli – 37 Depot St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
- The Freighthouse Coffee and Sandwiches – 1000 Broad St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
Friday, June 28th
We have a full itinerary planned on the second day of the Vermont Blade and Camp. We’ll start by visiting Up Rise Skatepark in Lyndonville, just 3.8 miles away. Next, we’ll enjoy some swimming at Lake Willoughby South Beach, located 16 miles from the skatepark. After our swim, we’ll drive 21 miles north to Newport Skatepark.
Following our visit to Newport, we’ll cool off with a swim at Crystal Lake in Barton, a picturesque state park 19 miles away. There is a $4 entry fee, but it’s a great value as this park is the oldest in Vermont. For those needing supplies, there’s a grocery store nearby in Barton. To wrap up the day, we’ll travel 20 miles back to our camping area in Lyndonville.
Up Rise Skatepark
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: On Sunday, we’ll kick off the day at Uprise Skatepark, situated just 9 minutes away at the base of the historic Lyndon Outing Club. Founded in 1937, the Lyndon Outing Club is one of Vermont’s oldest ski areas. Uprise Skatepark may be small, but it’s super fun. The park’s main attraction is a concrete bowl seamlessly transitioning into a small street area featuring a few rails. The park culminates with a quarter pipe. Its unique design resembles an abstract sculpture and a skate park, with sleek contours and a slate aesthetic that beautifully contrasts the surrounding green hills and fields.
Lyndon Outing Club Skatepark
1580 Lily Pond Road, Lyndonville, VT 05851
Lake Willoughby South Beach
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Embark on a picturesque 24-mile drive from the Newport Skatepark to reach the captivating south shore of Lake Willoughby. This year, we’re excited to change things up and enjoy the view from the south, thanks to the addition of ample parking facilities built last year. Prepare to be enchanted by the serene beauty of South Beach, where you can immerse yourself in the healing waters and revel in the awe-inspiring vistas of the majestic cliffs of Mt. Pisgah and Mt. Hor. Lake Willoughby, a glacial lake spanning 5 miles and plunging over 320 feet (98 m) deep in certain areas, evokes the enchanting landscapes of Norwegian fjords. Since 1967, this remarkable natural wonder has been recognized as a National Natural Landmark, providing a safe nesting sanctuary for the elusive peregrine falcon.
Willoughby Lake South Beach
5659 VT-5A, Westmore, VT 05860
Newport Skatepark
3:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Nestled approximately 5 miles south of Quebec, the Newport Skatepark is a concrete park brimming with captivating features.
Newport Skatepark
155 Gardner Park Road, Newport, VT
Crystal Lake State Park
6:30 PM till Dark: Embark on a picturesque drive from the Newport Skatepark to reach the captivating south shore of Crystal Lake State Park. Crystal Lake State Park is a day-use state park and historic site in Barton, Vermont, United States. It is located at 96 Bellwater Avenue, off Willoughby Lake Road just east of the village, at the northwestern end of 763-acre Crystal Lake. There is a $4 entrance fee per person.
Crystal Lake State Park
96 Bellwater Ave, Barton, VT 05822
Optional: Parker Pie
After swimming, you can eat at Parker Pie in West Glover, Vermont (5 miles). It’s the most famous pizza joint in Vermont, known for its excellent beers on tap, including Hill Farmstead Brewery. Parker Pie is a popular spot for pizza and craft beer lovers, offering wood-fired pizzas made with fresh ingredients. Alongside their mouthwatering pizzas, they have an impressive selection of craft beers on tap, featuring local and regional brews. To avoid long waits, pre-order your food at Parker Pie before leaving Crystal Lake.
Parker Pie Company
161 County Road, West Glover, VT 05875
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Optional: Burke Mountain Toll Road & Fire Tour
Just a short 7-mile drive from Lyndonville lies Burke Mountain, a renowned ski destination during the winter and a haven for mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts in the summer. It’s picturesque trails and stunning vistas offer an unforgettable outdoor experience. For a nominal fee of $10 per car, visitors can drive to the summit and climb up the stairs of the historic fire tower. From its vantage point, you’ll be treated to breathtaking 360-degree views spanning the magnificent landscapes of Quebec, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Prepare to be awe-struck as you take in the panoramic beauty of the surrounding regions.
Optional: University of Northern Vermont Skatepark
If you feel like skating another park on Friday night (it has lights) or Saturday morning this 6,000-square-foot pre-fabricated skatepark at Northern Vermont University in Lyndon is only 5 minutes from the campsite. There is also a really cool curved stair rail at the college!
NVU Skatepark
477 Lower Campus Drive, Lyndonville, VT 05851
Park at the big lot at the college and walk over.
Optional: Round Pond at Holbrook State Park
For the last swimming hole of the weekend, we will visit Round Pond, a hidden gem located in Perry Holbrook State Park, 22 minutes north of Lyndonville. Stunning views of the local mountain surround the pond and its fresh, clear water. To access the pond, you will enter at the sign driving down a right-of-way to a gravel parking lot. You will walk past the gate 0.4 miles down a logging road that ends at the pond.
For those seeking a rewarding hiking adventure, there is a breathtaking 2.9-mile in-and-out trail that leads to a mesmerizing outlook offering panoramic views of the serene ponds below. This scenic hike typically takes around 1.5 hours to complete and offers a moderate level of challenge, perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of the surroundings as you ascend to the lookout point and indulge in the awe-inspiring vistas.
Perry Holbrook State Park
VT-122, Sheffield, VT 05866
Optional: Bread and Puppet Museum
After your refreshing swim, take a short drive a mile north to the Bread and Puppet Museum for an extraordinary and thought-provoking experience. Located in Glover, Vermont, the museum is dedicated to showcasing the art and performances of the renowned Bread and Puppet Theater. Founded by Peter Schumann in 1963, the theater is celebrated for its powerful puppetry shows that tackle important social and political issues.
At the museum, you will encounter a fascinating collection of puppets, masks, posters, and other artworks created by the talented theater group. These exhibits provide visitors with a deep insight into the creative process and vision behind the Bread and Puppet Theater. Additionally, the museum hosts engaging performances, workshops, and events that revolve around puppetry and political theater, offering a dynamic and immersive experience.
By visiting the Bread and Puppet Museum, you will have a unique opportunity to explore the captivating intersection of art and activism through the remarkable work of the Bread and Puppet Theater. It is an enriching and inspiring destination that invites you to delve into the world of socially conscious puppetry and contemplate the power of artistic expression in promoting social change.
Bread and Puppet Theater
753 Heights Road, Glover, VT 05839
Optional: UNV Disc Golf Course
For those who have an interest in disc golf, you’re in for a treat. Northern Vermont University boasts a picturesque 18-hole course that combines open fields and wooded areas, creating a fun and challenging terrain. With plenty of elevation changes, this course offers a delightful disc golf experience amidst stunning surroundings. Get ready to test your skills and enjoy the beautiful scenery as we wrap up an amazing weekend of skating and outdoor activities.
UNV Frisbee Golf Course
1001 College Road, Lyndonville, VT 05851
Saturday, June 29th
On the third day of the Vermont Blade and Camp, we’ll start our journey from Jan’s house on Saturday morning, heading 49 miles west to the Barre Recretional Skate Park. After the skating session, we’ll cool off with a swim at a nearby swimming hole. Next, we’ll continue our adventure by traveling 41 miles southwest over the Green Mountains to Bristol Skatepark.
To wrap up the day, you’ll spend the night at either Myles Cotter-Sparrow’s property or the property of Josh and Michelle Davis. Please make sure to RSVP to ensure you are assigned the correct camping location.
NOTE: We had originally planned on skating at Johnson Skatepark as the first park of the day, but sadly, the park was destroyed during the flooding on the last day of last year’s event and hasn’t been rebuilt yet.
Travis Mercy Memorial Skatepark
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: We’ll pack up our tents and meet at Barre Recreational Skatepark, just an hour west of Jan’s place. This half-acre park features a range of obstacles, such as a halfpipe, quarterpipes, ledges, and rails, catering to skaters of all skill levels. The thoughtfully designed layout invites you to enjoy a great session. Get ready to have fun and hone your skills at the Travis Midy Memorial Skatepark!
Travis Mercy Memorial Skatepark
46 Websterville Road, East Barre, VT 05649
Related post -> The 36 Best Inline Skates and Rollerblades
Big Rock Swimming Hole
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Big Rock Swimming Hole is properly known as the Kenneth H. Ward Swimming Hole. It features the warmest water in the Mad River (though still chilly!), has lots of rocks to jump off and beaches to hang out on. Conveniently located on the route to the Bristol Skate Park, it has easy parking and access.
Ward’s Swimming Hole
From the intersection of Route 2 and Route 100B, head south on Route 100B for about 3.25 miles. You’ll find a large parking area marked by a sign on your left. Bathing suits are customary at this location. The exact coordinates are Latitude: 44.28995, Longitude: -72.72444. Exact Link to Google Map
Bristol Skatepark
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: For the second part of the day, we’ll head to the Bristol Skatepark in Bristol, Vermont. This is an old image of the Bristol park and it has had some material upgrades done. There is a huge outdoor smoothly paved hockey rink perfect for wizard skating and big wheel blading.
Bristol Skatepark
80 Airport Dr., Bristol, VT 05443
Bristol Falls
5:10 PM – 6:00 PM: After the Bristol skate park, we will head over to Bristol Falls, a wide waterfall, about 20 feet across and dropping 15 feet into a deep pool. The waterfall flows into a long, deep channel, about 75 yards in length, offering several spots for jumping.
Bristol Falls
From the center of Bristol, take Route 116/17 east for about 2 miles, then turn right onto Lincoln Gap Road. Continue driving until you hear the roar of the falls. You’ll find the parking for Bristol Falls first, followed by several pull-offs for Circle Current a little further up the road.
Optional: Middlebury Mini Ramp – Middlebury, VT
Looking for a nice mellow mini ramp to enjoy, stop in at the Middlebury Mini! This ramp was built last year as part of the Middlebury Skatepark Project. The group is working to build a concrete skatepark in Middlebury. The mini ramp being a starting point to create awareness of the skating community and help raise money. If you skate and like it you can donate to support the concrete park. Visit middleburyskatepark.com for more info on the project.
Middlebury Mini Ramp
294 Buttolph Dr, Middlebury, VT 05753
Camping – Goshen, VT
Saturday and Sunday camping will take place at two locations, Myles Cotter-Sparrow’s residence and Josh and Michelle Davis’ house, both in Goshen, Vermont. Please RSVP with your name and how many people you will be with so we can assign a camping location. It’s important to download offline maps on your map app since cell service is unavailable in this area. Both properties offer a stunning environment to relax, unwind, and embark on exciting explorations.
Myles Cotter-Sparrow or Josh and Michelle Davis’ Residences
Goshen, VT
Food Recommendations near Goshen
- Hannaford Supermarket – 71 Supermarket Dr, Brandon, VT 05733
- Morningside Bakery Wood-Fired Pizza and Provisions – 37 Center St, Brandon, VT 05733
- Neshobe Cafe – 20 Park St, Brandon, VT 05733
- Cafe Provence – 11 Center St, Brandon, VT 05733
Sunday, June 30th
On Sunday, we’ll meet at 11:00 AM at Manchester Skatepark, located 54 miles from our starting point. After some time there, we’ll move on to Ludlow Skatepark, which is about 31 miles from Manchester. Once we’ve enjoyed our skate session, we’ll travel just 4 miles to Buttermilk Falls in Ludlow for a refreshing swim.
As the day concludes, we’ll return to our assigned campsites in Goshen, either at Josh’s or Myles’s property, covering a distance of 45 miles.
Manchester Skatepark
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Our next destination is the recently completed Manchester Skatepark, the largest and most advanced skatepark facility in the region between Burlington and the Massachusetts border. This state-of-the-art skatepark located in Dana L. Thompson Memorial Park pays tribute to Southern Vermont’s unique landscape with its design. The street course features locally sourced marble elements from the Danby Marble Quarry, known for supplying marble for the New York City Public Library. Two conical “volcano” components represent the nearby mountains, while a stream of blue paint symbolizes the dynamic energy of the Battenkill River, running through the entire park.
Manchester Skatepark
340 Rec Park Road, Manchester Center, VT 05255
Food Recommendations Near Manchester
- Little Rooster Café – 4604 Main St, Manchester, VT 05255
- Bonnet & Main Café – 15 Bonnet St, Manchester Center, VT 05255
- The Works Café – 13 Riverside Heights, Manchester, VT 05255
Ludlow Skatepark
3:30 PM – 5:45 PM: We’ll be visiting Ludlow Skatepark, the newest concrete park in Vermont and a fresh addition to this year’s route. This is our first time including it in our road trip, and we’re excited to experience it together.
Dorsey Skate Park
Andover Street, Ludlow, VT 05149
Buttermilk Falls
6:00 PM: Buttermilk Falls in Vermont is a scenic destination known for its waterfalls, pools, and picturesque surroundings. Located in Ludlow, it offers a refreshing spot for swimming and relaxation. After a day of skating, it is the perfect place to cool down and unwind. A short 0.5-mile trail leads to Buttermilk Falls, where upper and lower falls provide opportunities for a revitalizing swim. The upper falls feature two drops of 12-15 feet, flowing into a large swimming pool with clear water and a pebble-covered bottom. Meanwhile, the lower falls create a deep pool of olive-green water 25 feet wide.
Buttermilk Falls
From the center of Ludlow, VT, take Route 100 North. Turn left on Rt. 103. Buttermilk Falls Road is approximately 1.5 miles further on the right. Turn here and proceed to the end. The falls and Branch Brook are along the abandoned stretch of old Route 103.
Food Recommendations Ludlow
- Killarney Irish Pub – 44 Pond St, Ludlow, VT 05149
- Off the Rails Pizza – 64 Pond St, Ludlow, VT 05149
- Mojo Cafe – 106 Main St, Ludlow, VT 05149
Related post -> The Best Pads for Inline Skating
Camping – Goshen, VT
Sunday camping will take place at two locations, Myles Cotter-Sparrow’s residence and Josh and Michelle Davis’ house, both in Goshen, Vermont. Please RSVP with your name and how many people you will be with so we can assign a camping location. It’s important to download offline maps on your map app since cell service is unavailable in this area. Both properties offer a stunning environment to relax, unwind, and embark on exciting explorations.
Myles Cotter-Sparrow or Josh and Michelle Davis’ Residences
Goshen, VT
Food Recommendations near Goshen
- Hannaford Supermarket – 71 Supermarket Dr, Brandon, VT 05733
- Morningside Bakery Wood-Fired Pizza and Provisions – 37 Center St, Brandon, VT 05733
- Neshobe Cafe – 20 Park St, Brandon, VT 05733
- Cafe Provence – 11 Center St, Brandon, VT 05733
Monday, July 1st
On the last day of the Vermont Blade and Camp, we’ll begin at a popular swimming hole and cliff jumping spot in Stockridge, 23 miles away. After enjoying the water, we’ll travel 6.5 miles to Bethel for our final skatepark session of the weekend.
Swimming in Stockbridge, VT
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Before our skate session, we’ll cool off at the Gaysville Twin Bridge swimming hole, located next to the Gaysville Post Office near Stockbridge, Vermont. You can park across the street from the post office. This spot is great for a swim and features cliffs for those who enjoy cliff jumping. It’s an ideal place to relax, have fun, and create lasting memories. Consider coming back the next morning for an early, refreshing dip.
Gaysville Post Office
35 Bridge Street, Gaysville, VT 05746
Bethel Skatepark
11:30 AM – 2:00 PM This compact yet enjoyable park offers a range of features, including quarter pipes, a fly box, and a rail. It’s the perfect spot for some blading fun.
Bethel Skatepark
115 Pleasant Street, Bethel, VT 05032
Related post -> The 10 Best Inline Skates for Kids
Skateparks To Visit Heading Home
Off I-93 South
- Skatepark of Plymouth – RR Sq Rd, Plymouth, NH 03264
- Franklin Skatepark – 82 E Bow St, Franklin, NH 03235
- Alexander-Carr Park Skatepark – Pierce Ave, Derry, NH 03038
Off I-91 South
- Rusty Bearing’s Skatepark – Riverside Park, West Lebanon, NH 03784
- Perseverance Skatepark – 157 Memorial Park Dr, Brattleboro, VT 05301
- Unity Skatepark – Unity Park, 56 1st St, Turners Falls, MA 01376
- Greenfield Skatepark – 71 Chapman Street, Greenfield, MA 01301
- Northampton Skatepark – Northampton, MA 01060
- Holyoke Skatepark – St Kolbe Dr, Holyoke, MA 01040
Off I-89 South
- Hopkinton Skate Park – 461 Park Ave, Hopkinton, NH 03229
FAQ
What must I bring to have an enjoyable camping trip?
To make the most of your outdoor adventure during the Vermont Blade and Camp, it’s essential to pack the right gear. Below, we’ll discuss the basic and most essential items you need for a successful weekend.
First and foremost, a reliable tent is a must-have for shelter during your camping trip. Consider options like the spacious REI Co-op Half Dome Tent, offering excellent weather protection, or the lightweight and durable MSR Hubba Hubba NX Tent, perfect for solo or duo camping excursions.
A comfortable sleeping setup is essential for a good night’s rest. Look for a high-quality sleeping bag like The North Face Cat’s Meow, known for its warmth and compressibility. Pair it with the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite Sleeping Pad, an inflatable pad that provides insulation and support for a restful sleep under the stars.
Proper lighting is crucial for navigating your campsite after sunset. The Black Diamond Spot Headlamp provides a bright beam, adjustable brightness, and multiple lighting modes for hands-free illumination. For ambient lighting, the Goal Zero Crush Light Solar Lantern is a lightweight and collapsible option that can be charged using solar power.
Pack appropriate outdoor apparel to withstand Vermont’s varying weather conditions. The Patagonia Torrentshell Rain Jacket is a waterproof and breathable option for unexpected rain showers, and the Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants offer versatility with their convertibility into shorts and quick-drying fabric.
By ensuring you have these essential items, such as a reliable tent, comfortable sleeping gear, and lighting, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable camping trip in the beautiful state of Vermont. For more gear recommendations check out “A Comprehensive Guide to Planning Day and Overnight Hikes.“
What should I expect in terms of bugs?
Bugs, mosquitoes, and other insects are typically active during the summer months. It’s advisable to bring insect repellent containing DEET or other recommended ingredients to protect yourself from bug bites. Consider packing a mosquito net for your tent or using citronella candles to create a bug-free zone around your camping area. While bugs can be bothersome, they can be managed with proper precautions. It’s also a good idea to bring a basic first aid kit that includes items for treating bug bites or minor injuries.
How is Vermont’s weather during the trip?
In June and July, Vermont experiences warmer weather with average temperatures ranging from 60°F (15°C) to 89°F (27°C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. It’s generally a pleasant time to camp, but it’s important to be prepared for potential weather changes. Pack lightweight and breathable clothing, along with some warmer layers for cooler evenings. Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. It’s always a good idea to have rain gear, such as a waterproof jacket and extra tarps, in case of unexpected showers.
Are dogs allowed?
We prefer not to have too many dogs in the camping areas. If you do bring a dog, it must be well-behaved or leashed. On Saturday and Sunday nights, the property has a lot of landscaping and plants that the owner does not want to be damaged by dogs running through them or urinating on them.
Can I eat the berries?
While camping on Saturday and Sunday, you might come across numerous berries and wonder about their edibility and permission to consume them. The good news is that there are plentiful blackberry and black raspberry plants that you are free to enjoy! However, we kindly request that you refrain from indulging in the eight blueberry plants. Unfortunately, a late freeze affected the blueberries on five of them, so we would like to preserve the remaining ones and savor the fruits (berries) of our hard work.
