Campbell’s Bay Campground

- 205 Campbell Bay Rd, Swanton, VT 05488

Introduction / Overview

For Vermonters and those exploring the unparalleled beauty of the Champlain Valley, Campbell’s Bay Campground in Swanton, Vermont, is more than just a place to park an RV or pitch a tent—it is an institution. Nestled directly on the picturesque Missisquoi Bay, a secluded part of the vast Lake Champlain, this site has been a beloved family getaway for generations. Public reviews frequently highlight the deep sense of community and the family-run atmosphere, with guests often referencing memories stretching back decades. This kind of longevity speaks to a commitment to genuine Vermont hospitality and consistent service that resonates strongly with local users.

Campbell’s Bay offers a classic, relaxing Vermont outdoor experience, focused heavily on water-based recreation. It successfully blends the rustic charm of traditional camping with key modern conveniences. This balance makes it an ideal spot for everyone from seasoned RV campers and boaters to families seeking a week-long cabin escape, all while providing direct, convenient access to the legendary fishing and boating of Lake Champlain. Operating seasonally, the campground caters specifically to the best of Vermont’s warmer months, typically from May 1st to October 1st.

The campground’s location in the Missisquoi Bay area of Swanton places it in the North Country of Vermont, a region characterized by its flat terrain, abundant waterways, and proximity to the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge. This setting ensures a peaceful environment away from heavy traffic, yet remains accessible to nearby towns and local services. For the local user, Campbell’s Bay represents a reliable, traditional spot where they can connect with the natural landscape that defines the state.

Location and Accessibility

Campbell’s Bay Campground is strategically located at

205 Campbell Bay Rd, Swanton, VT 05488, USA

Its prime location on Missisquoi Bay ensures that the core of the campground's appeal is its direct waterfront access to Lake Champlain. For Vermont residents, this proximity is invaluable for spontaneous weekend trips or planned summer vacations without the extensive travel required for coastal destinations.

Accessibility from major Vermont population centers is straightforward:

• From Burlington: The drive is manageable, making it an easy weekend destination for residents of Vermont's largest city.
• From St. Albans: The town of Swanton, and the campground itself, is very close to the essential amenities of St. Albans, including larger grocery stores and specialized retail.
• Regional Access: Proximity to US Route 7 and Interstate 89 makes the campground reasonably accessible from other parts of the state, placing it within a day trip's reach of many Vermont communities.

The setting within the bay offers a more protected and tranquil stretch of Lake Champlain compared to the open lake, which can be a key advantage for families and less experienced boaters.

Services Offered

Campbell’s Bay Campground provides a range of essential services and convenient amenities designed to maximize the enjoyment of a Lake Champlain vacation for all types of campers and guests.

• Diverse Accommodation Options: The park offers various stay types, including spacious RV sites, basic tent camping areas, and lakeshore cottage/cabin rentals, accommodating different budgets and preferences.
• Utility Hookups: RV sites are equipped with electric and water hookups to serve modern recreational vehicles.
• Boating Services: A major highlight is the availability of boat rentals, including pontoon boats, along with a dedicated gas dock at the pier, making it incredibly convenient for boaters and anglers to fuel up and launch directly from the property.
• Campground Amenities: Essential facilities are provided, including hot showers, public restrooms, a laundromat, and a sanitary dump station for RV waste.
• General Store and Supplies: An on-site general store offers convenience for necessities such as ice, firewood, snacks, and perhaps most importantly for the location, fishing lures. They also reportedly sell resident and non-resident fishing licenses, saving a trip into town.

Features / Highlights

The charm and specific features of Campbell’s Bay Campground solidify its status as a local favorite for outdoor recreation in the Lake Champlain area.

• Direct Lake Champlain Access: Situated on Missisquoi Bay, the campground provides direct boat-in access, a boat launch, and docks for keeping a boat, which is paramount for fishing and watersports enthusiasts.
• Generational Family Ownership: The fact that the campground is family-owned and operated for four generations is a significant highlight, fostering a strong, welcoming atmosphere and sense of community frequently mentioned in customer reviews.
• Fishing Focus: Given its location on a prime section of Lake Champlain, the campground is naturally a hub for fishing. The availability of boat rentals, a gas dock, and fishing licenses on-site makes it a self-contained and highly functional base camp for anglers.
• On-Site Recreation: Facilities include recreational options like a small playground, a recreation room (or game room), and horseshoe pits, ensuring activities are available for both children and adults within the park grounds.
• Variety of Rentals: Offering both cabin rentals and boat rentals, the campground makes it possible for guests without their own equipment to still enjoy the full experience of a lakeside vacation.

Contact Information

For reservations, seasonal availability, or specific inquiries about site types and amenities, please use the following contact details:

Address:

205 Campbell Bay Rd, Swanton, VT 05488, USA

Phone (Primary):

(802) 999-7157

Mobile Phone:

+1 802-999-7157

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

Campbell’s Bay Campground is exceptionally well-suited for Vermont locals, particularly those in the northern and central regions, for several compelling reasons. First and foremost is the deep-rooted, multi-generational family operation. Vermonters value local businesses with a long history of community connection, and this family atmosphere ensures a personalized and consistent experience that feels reliably familiar. As one customer noted, the memories there stretch back decades—a testament to its stable, friendly environment.

Second, the location is a premier asset. Situated directly on Missisquoi Bay, it provides an immediate, low-stress gateway to Lake Champlain’s recreational opportunities. This convenience means less time traveling and more time fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the sunset over the water. For the angler, the combined features of the general store selling licenses and tackle, the boat rentals, and the on-site gas dock make it an efficient and fully-equipped hub.

Finally, the diverse range of accommodations—from rustic, cozy lakeshore cabins perfect for family reunions to equipped RV sites—ensures that the campground can meet the needs of a wide array of local vacation styles and budgets. Campbell’s Bay is not just a campground; it is a cherished Vermont tradition, offering a genuine, family-friendly, and highly accessible Lake Champlain experience. It stands as a perfect summer escape for any Vermont resident looking to tap into the state's signature outdoor lifestyle.

Campbell’s Bay Campground

205 Campbell Bay Rd, Swanton, VT 05488, USA