Vermont Destinations for First-Time Canoe Camping
If you haven’t fallen in love with canoe camping yet, this summer might be the time. It’s usually pretty hard to get into something new - especially in the outdoor field. The thing about canoe camping is that it’s so accessible. Families, friends, solo canoeists, dogs, kids, young and old can go on these trips. In this article, we’re going to help you get started.
How to Rent Gear
To begin with, there are a couple of places in Vermont where you can rent all the gear you need. Instead of worrying about buying a canoe, check out the Outdoor Gear Exchange in Burlington, or Umiak Outdoor Outfitters in Stowe. If renting is still expensive, just ask around to see who can lend you a canoe. For Vermonters, Front Porch Forum is a way to get neighbors in touch. Not only that but plenty of social media groups are out there to get people connected.
Tips For Planning
What to Pack
First, don’t be afraid to bring too much stuff. It’s amazing how much you can fit into a canoe, leaving space for more creature comforts like camp chairs, pillows, and even a cooler.
Make sure you bring safety equipment specific to paddling - a PFD for every paddler, a spare paddle in case you lose one, a tow rope in case someone gets tired, extra rope to dock the boat, dry bags for personal items (especially electronics), headlamp with extra batteries, and a signaling whistle. Three loud, short blasts are a universal signal of distress. See a list of the 10 Essentials to know what else to pack, and remember, always wear sunscreen and a hat to prevent heat exhaustion!
Next, find somewhere peaceful. The following places are just that - low on boat traffic, tested for water quality, pretty straightforward places to camp, and local. This means less driving, and more friends who can help you out if you need it. Plus the outdoor community is so friendly that you should be able to ask someone for advice when you’re out on the water.
Before You Go:
- Make an itinerary and give it to a trusted contact - there needs to be someone who knows where you’re going!
- Clean, drain, and dry your boat to prevent the spread of invasive species between bodies of water.
- If it seems like nobody was at your campsite before you, it’s because they cleaned it up for you - make sure to bring trash bags so you can pack it all out. Pay it forward!
- Call ahead to ask for tips! The rangers are happy to help you plan.
Locations for Canoe Camping in VT
You’ve got all the items for your outing, now you just need the perfect spot to enjoy. There are so many places to go in the great state of Vermont. These are some of the places on the tippy top of our list!
Green River Reservoir
Hyde Park, VT | google maps link
An aerial view of Green River Reservoir. Image: VT State ParksThis place is only accessible by boat. An ADA accessible boardwalk leads from the parking area to an accessible boat launch. Motors under 5 mph are allowed, so expect to see some motorized boats (just little ones).
Think about carpooling - parking is limited. It’s along the access road to the park. There is also a small parking lot at the park itself.
Two group sites are maintained throughout the season. That said, sometimes they are closed for rehabilitation — you can call ahead to see if they’re open.
Swimming is a go! There’s some cell service, fishing licenses are available for purchase, and each site has a pit toilet. Remember to bring toilet paper! One last thing - firewood is available for purchase, but to cut down on invasive species transmission you can’t bring your own.
Other resources: The Friends of Green River Reservoir have published a nature field guide for the state park. They even published a new map, free online. There aren’t really hiking trails, but views of surrounding mountain scenery are breathtaking. Bring binoculars because there will be loons and lots of other wildlife.
Image: VT State Parks