Gifford Woods State Park - Image 1
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Gifford Woods State Park

4.7
·398 reviews·Killington, United States

Discover rustic camping amidst old-growth forests, with direct access to the Appalachian Trail and thrilling mountain biking.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer Mornings

Cooler temps, fewer bugs

CrowdMedium
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Gifford Woods State Park - Image 1

Gifford Woods State Park

Best Time

Summer Mornings

Cooler temps, fewer bugs

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover rustic camping amidst old-growth forests, with direct access to the Appalachian Trail and thrilling mountain biking.

4.7
(398 reviews)

"Beautiful campground!! Very secluded, wooded sites with covered tent camping options!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Reserve Your Campsite Early

Sites fill up fast, especially on weekends and holidays. Book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:

Pack for Rustic Camping

No electric hookups or in-site water. Bring a water jug and be prepared for a more natural experience. :camping:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Appalachian Trail Access

Appalachian Trail Access

Park Entrance

Hike a section of this iconic trail, offering a true wilderness experience right from your campsite.

Wooded & Secluded Campsites

Wooded & Secluded Campsites

Campground

Enjoy private, well-separated sites surrounded by nature, perfect for a peaceful getaway.

Mountain Biking Trails

Mountain Biking Trails

Sherburne Trail System

Experience flowy, well-maintained trails ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts.

Kent Pond & Thundering Brook Falls

Kent Pond & Thundering Brook Falls

Short Hikes from Campground

Easy-to-access natural beauty spots perfect for a scenic stroll.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wilderness: Camping Essentials

Gifford Woods State Park offers a rustic camping experience with no electric hookups and water available at a central station. Sites are well-separated and wooded, providing privacy. Consider bringing a larger tent or lean-to for comfort, especially if traveling with pets. Book in advance, as sites fill up quickly, particularly on weekends and holidays. Reddit

Trail Access & Nearby Adventures

This park is a gateway to the Appalachian Trail and offers excellent hiking and mountain biking opportunities. While trails are kid-friendly, they may not be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. It's also a short drive to Killington for more extensive outdoor activities and dining options. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Summer Mornings
Why
Cooler temps, fewer bugs
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall Weekdays
Why
Leaf peeping, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Labor Day Weekend
Why
Great for dogs, private sites
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

There are enough hiking trails in Killington to keep you busy for many days, but for a full weekend of adventure in and around Killington, here’s what I’d recommend.  Friday: Drive to Gifford Woods State Park, set up camp, and walk on the Appalachian Trail to Kent Pond. If you arrive early enough, hike to Thundering Brook Falls and back to your campsite (3.6 miles round-trip, minimal elevation ga...
vermont_explored
92 likes • 3K views

Reserve Your Campsite Early

Sites fill up fast, especially on weekends and holidays. Book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:

Pack for Rustic Camping

No electric hookups or in-site water. Bring a water jug and be prepared for a more natural experience. :camping:

Spending a couple nights at this beautiful place, Gifford Woods State Park in Vermont. I’ve had only amazing campsites at their parks. Kudos to them. There’s a mountain bike trail just steps away (didn’t bring my mountain bike 😩) but I hiked it. The woods are clean (didn’t see any invasives) and I did pick some jewelweed (because there was skads of it) to make a salve. #Camping #vermontstatepark...
dancingleaffarm
14 likes • 269 views
Hi everyone. Tenting here in Gifford Woods State Park tonight. Glad they have a special tenting area for hikers because every site is full. 16 miles today and up and over Killington tomorrow. Ranger Randy out.
randykeithgates
41 likes • 328 views

Dog-Friendly Camping

Many sites offer privacy and are great for camping with your furry friends. :dog:

Explore Nearby Killington

Short drive to Killington for more trails, dining, and activities. :car:

Beautiful Lake George, we drove all around that and then headed towards Woodstock Cermont, found a fantastic antique shop on the way. Camping at Gifford Woods State Park, spending the day in Eoidstock tomorrow. Covered bridge pictures to come! With Allan Jeffries
rocksylee
1 likes • 7 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Reserve Your Campsite Early

Sites fill up fast, especially on weekends and holidays. Book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:

Pack for Rustic Camping

No electric hookups or in-site water. Bring a water jug and be prepared for a more natural experience. :camping:

Dog-Friendly Camping

Many sites offer privacy and are great for camping with your furry friends. :dog:

Explore Nearby Killington

Short drive to Killington for more trails, dining, and activities. :car:

Trail Shoes Recommended

Trails can be uneven; wear sturdy footwear for hiking and biking. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(398 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Gifford Woods State Park for its beautiful, private, and wooded campsites, along with its excellent access to the Appalachian Trail and well-maintained mountain biking trails. The park's rustic charm and friendly staff are frequently mentioned positives. However, the lack of electric hookups and in-site water, along with trails not being stroller-friendly, are noted drawbacks for some.

"This campground was built by the civilian conservation core way around the 1930s and is still in pristine condition . Very clean, the park staff were helpful and friendly. There are no electric sites and water is available at a fill station not at each site. But the sites are clean and well separated. People with large campers over 30 feet will have a problem potentially.
Excellent Mountain bike trails and is short drive to Killington."

Aaron Smith

"We camped here Labor Day weekend and our spot was nice and private with woods surrounding most of our site. Not too buggy and the water spigot and bathroom were close by. The lean to was spacious and a great structure to have with our two dogs. Will come back again!"

Mandy Maskell

"Beautiful park and excellent camping facilities. Easy access to the Appalachian Trail and a bunch of other trails. I wish they had some rv sites with electric connections."

Marie Taylor

What People Like

Private, wooded campsites
Appalachian Trail access
Mountain biking trails

What People Dislike

No electric hookups
Water at central station
Trails not stroller-friendly

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gifford Woods State Park is located in Vermont, easily accessible by car. It's a short drive from Killington, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the region. TikTok

Public transportation options directly to the park are limited. It's best to travel by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you're coming from a nearby town like Killington. TikTok

The most common route involves heading towards Killington, Vermont, and then following local signage to the park. GPS navigation is highly recommended. TikTok

Yes, the drive around Lake George and towards Woodstock, Vermont, offers beautiful scenery. The park itself is nestled in a picturesque area. TikTok

Absolutely! Gifford Woods State Park has a dedicated tenting area for Appalachian Trail hikers, making it a convenient stop. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the park itself is generally free, but camping requires reservations and fees. It's advisable to check the official Vermont State Parks website for the most current information. Reddit

Camping fees vary depending on the site type and season. While specific prices aren't listed in reviews, expect standard state park camping rates. Booking in advance is crucial. Reddit

Day use of the park for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty is typically free. Fees are primarily associated with overnight camping. Reddit

Yes, online reservations are highly recommended and often required, especially during peak season. Visit the Vermont State Parks reservation system. Reddit

State parks are generally open from dawn to dusk for day use. Campground hours for check-in and check-out apply. Confirm specific hours on the park's official page. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The park offers a variety of trails, including access to the Appalachian Trail. There are also excellent mountain biking trails, like the Sherburne Trail. Trails are kid-friendly but not stroller-accessible. TikTokReddit

Yes, bathrooms are available. Water is provided at a central fill station, not at individual sites. Some sites have lean-tos for covered camping. Reddit+1

It's a beautiful park with kid-friendly trails, but be aware that they are not stroller or wheelchair accessible. The natural setting is great for outdoor exploration. Reddit

Yes, dogs are welcome at Gifford Woods State Park, and many campers find the sites to be very accommodating for pets. Reddit

Camping is rustic with well-separated, wooded sites offering privacy. There are no electric hookups, and water is at a central station. Lean-tos are available. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants within Gifford Woods State Park itself. You'll need to bring your own food for camping or drive to nearby towns. TikTok

The closest dining options are in Killington, which offers a range of restaurants from casual to more upscale. Woodstock is also a nearby town with eateries. TikTok+1

Yes, cooking at your campsite is encouraged. Campfires are permitted in designated areas, and many campers bring portable stoves. Remember to follow all fire safety regulations. Reddit

You'll find grocery stores in the towns of Killington and Woodstock. It's advisable to stock up on supplies before heading into the park. TikTok+1

The Killington area offers classic American fare, pub food, and some Italian options. Many places cater to outdoor enthusiasts. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the old-growth forest, especially during fall foliage season. The Appalachian Trail, Kent Pond, and Thundering Brook Falls offer scenic shots. TikTok

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm glow. TikTok

The overlooks along the Appalachian Trail and the shores of Kent Pond provide excellent vantage points. Keep an eye out for covered bridges in the surrounding areas. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions. TikTok

While not guaranteed, the park's natural setting offers opportunities to spot local wildlife. Be patient and respectful of their habitat. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gifford Woods State Park offers a wonderful natural playground for families. The kid-friendly trails provide opportunities for exploration and adventure, allowing children to connect with nature. While the trails are enjoyable for walking, parents should be aware that they are not stroller or wheelchair accessible, so be prepared for a more rugged experience. The well-separated campsites offer a sense of privacy, which can be great for families wanting their own space. Bringing along some simple camping games or nature scavenger hunts can enhance the experience for younger visitors. Reddit

🏕️ Campers Seeking Seclusion

If your idea of camping involves peace, quiet, and a feeling of being away from it all, Gifford Woods State Park is an excellent choice. Reviewers consistently highlight the secluded, wooded sites that offer a high degree of privacy. This is a place where you can truly disconnect and enjoy the sounds of nature. The absence of electric hookups and the central water station contribute to this rustic, out-in-the-woods atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for those who appreciate a more traditional camping experience. Reddit

🚴 Mountain Bikers & Hikers

Gifford Woods State Park is a prime destination for active outdoor enthusiasts. The Sherburne Trail system is a major draw for mountain bikers, celebrated for its fantastic flow and enjoyable riding experience. TikTok Hikers will appreciate the direct access to the Appalachian Trail, offering a chance to tread on a legendary path. The park's diverse trail network ensures there's something for various fitness levels, making it a versatile spot for a day of adventure or a longer outdoor trip. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Camping at Gifford Woods: A Rustic Retreat

Gifford Woods State Park is renowned for its rustic camping experience, a deliberate choice to preserve the natural environment. Unlike many modern campgrounds, you won't find electric hookups or water at every site. Instead, water is available at a central fill station, and campers are encouraged to be self-sufficient. This approach contributes to the park's pristine condition and the feeling of being truly immersed in nature. Sites are thoughtfully designed to be well-separated and wooded, offering a significant degree of privacy that many visitors rave about. Reddit

For those seeking a bit more comfort, the park offers lean-tos, providing a covered shelter that's particularly useful for tent camping, especially if you're traveling with pets. The park was originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and this historical foundation is evident in its enduring, well-maintained facilities. It's important to note that larger RVs over 30 feet might find maneuvering challenging due to the natural terrain and site layouts. Booking in advance is highly recommended, as the park is a popular destination, especially on weekends and holidays. Reddit+1

Trail Adventures: From Appalachian Peaks to Mountain Bike Flow

Gifford Woods State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, primarily due to its exceptional trail system. It serves as a direct access point to the Appalachian Trail, allowing hikers to easily embark on sections of this legendary long-distance path. The park also boasts its own network of trails, catering to various skill levels and interests. TikTok

For mountain bikers, the park is a must-visit, particularly for the Sherburne Trail system, which is frequently praised for its excellent flow and well-maintained condition. TikTok While the trails are generally considered kid-friendly, reviewers note that they are not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs, emphasizing the natural, rugged terrain. Visitors looking for a quick scenic excursion can also easily access spots like Kent Pond and Thundering Brook Falls via short, enjoyable hikes from the campground. TikTok

When exploring the trails, it's crucial to wear appropriate footwear. Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes are recommended to navigate the uneven surfaces comfortably and safely. Being prepared with water and snacks is also advisable, especially for longer hikes. Reddit

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