
Gifford Woods State Park
Discover rustic camping amidst old-growth forests, with direct access to the Appalachian Trail and thrilling mountain biking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer bugs

Gifford Woods State Park
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer bugs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover rustic camping amidst old-growth forests, with direct access to the Appalachian Trail and thrilling mountain biking.
"Beautiful campground!! Very secluded, wooded sites with covered tent camping options!"

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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Appalachian Trail Access
Park Entrance
Hike a section of this iconic trail, offering a true wilderness experience right from your campsite.

Wooded & Secluded Campsites
Campground
Enjoy private, well-separated sites surrounded by nature, perfect for a peaceful getaway.

Mountain Biking Trails
Sherburne Trail System
Experience flowy, well-maintained trails ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts.

Kent Pond & Thundering Brook Falls
Short Hikes from Campground
Easy-to-access natural beauty spots perfect for a scenic stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wilderness: Camping Essentials
Trail Access & Nearby Adventures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
The most common route involves heading towards Killington, Vermont, and then following local signage to the park. GPS navigation is highly recommended.
Yes, the drive around Lake George and towards Woodstock, Vermont, offers beautiful scenery. The park itself is nestled in a picturesque area.
Absolutely! Gifford Woods State Park has a dedicated tenting area for Appalachian Trail hikers, making it a convenient stop.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
Day use of the park for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty is typically free. Fees are primarily associated with overnight camping.
Yes, online reservations are highly recommended and often required, especially during peak season. Visit the Vermont State Parks reservation system.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
Yes, bathrooms are available. Water is provided at a central fill station, not at individual sites. Some sites have lean-tos for covered camping.
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.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Gifford Woods State Park, and many campers find the sites to be very accommodating for pets.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
The Killington area offers classic American fare, pub food, and some Italian options. Many places cater to outdoor enthusiasts.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the old-growth forest, especially during fall foliage season. The Appalachian Trail, Kent Pond, and Thundering Brook Falls offer scenic shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm glow.
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.
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.
While not guaranteed, the park's natural setting offers opportunities to spot local wildlife. Be patient and respectful of their habitat.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏕️ Campers Seeking Seclusion
🚴 Mountain Bikers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping at Gifford Woods: A Rustic Retreat
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.
Trail Adventures: From Appalachian Peaks to Mountain Bike Flow
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. 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.
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.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit