Lakeside Camping

- 1348 VT-105, Island Pond, VT 05846

For Vermonters seeking an authentic, activity-rich, and conveniently located outdoor escape within the state’s majestic Northeast Kingdom (NEK), Lakeside Camping in Island Pond, VT, represents a cherished tradition. The NEK is renowned for its remote beauty, pristine lakes, and deep connection to nature, and this private campground, with over 60 years in business, captures the essence of a perfect Green Mountain getaway. Whether you are trading in the stresses of Burlington, Montpelier, or even southern Vermont for a quiet, loon-song-filled weekend, or you are looking for a seasonal home base for your RV, Lakeside Camping is a destination deeply rooted in the Vermont outdoor experience.

This content is specifically written for Vermont residents, highlighting the features that make this campground a practical and appealing choice for local users. Based on the positive feedback from long-time patrons, the campground is valued for its direct lake access, fully-equipped amenities, and dedication to a strong family-friendly environment—a true community in the woods. It is a place where the stunning environment of the Island Pond area meets the convenience of a full-service private facility.

Lakeside Camping is a premier, long-established private campground situated directly on the shores of Island Pond, a significant natural feature within the Northeast Kingdom. Known for its picturesque setting, the campground boasts over 1,500 feet of private, sandy beach and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding majestic Red and White Pines. The facility is substantial, featuring approximately 200 campsites split between dedicated seasonal spots and overnight/short-term sites, ensuring that both long-term regulars and weekend visitors from across Vermont are catered to.

The atmosphere here is consistently described as being both "peaceful and exciting," striking the perfect balance for a family-friendly retreat. The owner, Maurice, and his staff are frequently praised in local reviews for being highly accommodating, friendly, and helpful. As an essential service provider in this region, the campground is not just a place to sleep; it’s an active recreational hub. It provides all the necessary amenities—including a convenience store and propane filling station right on site—making it easy for Vermont families to settle in and immediately begin enjoying the area's many activities without constant trips back to town. The long-standing nature of the business (over 60 years) underscores its dependability and deep roots within the local Vermont camping culture.

Lakeside Camping is conveniently located at 1348 VT-105, Island Pond, VT 05846, USA. This location places it just over a mile east of the quaint village of Island Pond, an area that serves as a central hub for the northern NEK.

• Direct Lake Access: The prime feature is the extensive lake frontage on Island Pond. The cold, clear waters of the pond are excellent for fishing, boating, and swimming, and the campground’s private sandy beaches offer direct and safe access to the water for all ages.

• NEK Adventure Basecamp: The location serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the Northeast Kingdom. It is very close to Brighton State Park (located on nearby Spectacle Pond) and is within reasonable driving distance of some of Vermont’s most famous outdoor attractions.

• Proximity to Kingdom Trails: For Vermont’s dedicated mountain biking community, the world-renowned Kingdom Trails in East Burke are easily accessible from the campground, making it a viable base for both lakeside relaxation and challenging trail adventures.

• Local Convenience: While offering an escape into nature, the campground’s location on VT-105 ensures that necessary supplies and services are not far off. Guests appreciate that beyond the on-site store, additional shopping and dining opportunities are available within a 5- to 20-minute drive in the nearby towns of Island Pond and Newport.

• Year-Round Appeal: Although the campground is open seasonally (typically May 15 to September 9), the Island Pond region is famous for VAST snowmobile trails, making it a key destination for outdoor recreation across all seasons, which adds to the area's year-round local appeal.

Lakeside Camping offers a comprehensive set of amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free camping experience, particularly for RV travelers:

• Full Hookup Sites: Provides sites with full hookups, including 30 and 50 amp electric service, water, and sewer connections, making it ideal for large RVs and long-term stays.

• Campsite Variety: Offers a mix of wooded and open sites, as well as tent sites, pull-through RV sites, and even a few rental trailers for those without their own equipment.

• On-Site Store & Fuel: Features a fully stocked camp store for groceries, supplies, and souvenirs, plus a convenient filling station for LP (propane) gas.

• Waterfront Rentals: Provides boat, paddleboat, and kayak rentals, allowing guests to easily get out onto Island Pond. The campground also offers sunset lake cruises on their party barge.

• Essential Facilities: Includes a sanitary dump station, laundry facilities, a recreational hall, a pavilion, and modern restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers.

• Connectivity: Offers complimentary Wi-Fi access, though quality may vary depending on the wooded nature of the area and site location.

The features that make Lakeside Camping a favorite among Vermont locals are centered on its setting and family-centric activities:

• Private Sandy Beaches: The campground boasts two private beaches with over 1,500 feet of sandy lakefront—a significant advantage over public access areas, ensuring an exclusive and clean swimming area.

• Family Entertainment: The atmosphere is geared toward families, featuring a well-maintained, updated playground for children 12 and under, a game room/video arcade, and scheduled weekend events and activities throughout the peak season.

• Nature & Wildlife Viewing: The Island Pond area is rich in wildlife. Moose sightings are common, and the frequent sounds of nesting loons on the pond provide an iconic Northeast Kingdom soundtrack, appreciated by those seeking a deep immersion in Vermont nature.

• Complete Site Comfort: Every campsite, whether for a tent or RV, comes equipped with both a picnic table and a fire pit or fireplace, which are essential for enjoying the traditional Vermont camping experience.

• Hospitality and Convenience: The accommodating nature of the owner and staff, coupled with the convenience of an on-site general store and propane, significantly reduces logistical stress, allowing Vermonters to maximize their relaxation time.

For reservations, seasonal rates, and information on current activities, please use the contact details provided below:

Address: 1348 VT-105, Island Pond, VT 05846, USA

Phone (Seasonal): (802) 723-6649

Mobile Phone: +1 802-723-6649

Lakeside Camping is more than just a place to park an RV; it is a beloved institution in the Northeast Kingdom and a perfect getaway for Vermont locals. Its suitability lies in the unique blend of accessibility and full amenities in a truly remote and beautiful setting. For Vermont families, the opportunity to spend a week or a season with guaranteed lake access, clean beaches, and a steady stream of family-friendly activities—all supported by a helpful, accommodating staff and an on-site store—is unmatched in convenience. You don't have to sacrifice comfort for a deep-woods experience.

This campground serves as the ideal NEK basecamp. Whether you plan to hike the Kingdom Heritage Trails, cycle the world-class Kingdom Trails, or simply spend your days swimming and listening to the loons call on Island Pond, Lakeside Camping provides a welcoming, fully equipped retreat. It offers the quiet, relaxing getaway sought by many Vermonters, with the exciting potential for exploration and family fun right outside the camper door. Its longevity and loyal local customer base are the best testament to its enduring quality as a true Vermont camping destination.

Lakeside Camping

1348 VT-105, Island Pond, VT 05846, USA