Vermont State Parks Reservations for 2026: Booking Opens in Early September
As the summer of 2025 winds down, outdoor enthusiasts are already looking ahead to next year's adventures in Vermont's stunning state parks. A key date to mark on your calendar is Tuesday, September 2, 2025, when reservations for stays beginning in August 2026 will become available starting at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time, according to Vermont State Parks' reservation guidelines.
This aligns with Vermont State Parks' policy of opening reservations up to 11 months in advance, with inventory for each month released on the first business day of the preceding month at 9 a.m., as stated in their official booking policies. Note that September 1, 2025, is Labor Day, a holiday, making September 2 the first business day.
Vermont boasts over 50 state parks, offering everything from tent and RV sites to lean-tos, cabins, and cottages amid picturesque landscapes, lakes, and hiking trails, according to the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation. Popular spots like Brighton State Park and Underhill State Park often fill up quickly, so booking early is essential, especially for peak summer months, based on user reviews and park availability data from various outdoor forums and the state parks' site.
How to Make Reservations
You have three convenient options to secure your spot, as outlined on the Vermont State Parks website:
Online: Visit the official booking platform. This is the fastest method, but act quickly—once you add a site to your cart, you have just 15 minutes to complete checkout before it's released back into inventory, according to the reservation system's rules.
By Phone: Call the Reservation Call Center, available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., per the contact information provided by the parks department.
In Person: Head to a Vermont State Park contact station during operating hours.
For online bookings, a helpful tip is to double-check your username and password in advance to avoid any login hiccups during the rush, as recommended in the parks' booking tips. Same-day reservations aren't available online or via the call center; you'll need to contact the park directly.
Key Policies and Tips
Advance Booking Window: Up to 11 months ahead, but same-day spots must be handled by the park, according to state parks' reservation FAQs.
Minimum Stays: For reservations made before March 1 of the operating year, there's a two-night minimum (except at Green River Reservoir). After March 1, one-night stays are allowed Sunday through Thursday for most sites, as per the detailed camping policies.
Special Notes: Burton Island's inventory opens mid-month, around the 15th, on the first business day, based on specific park guidelines. For changes or cancellations, contact the call center during business hours.
FAQs and Resources: Check out the Vermont State Parks' Reservation FAQs series for more navigation tips on the system.
Whether you're planning a family camping trip or a solo hike, securing your 2026 reservation early ensures you don't miss out on Vermont's natural beauty. For the latest updates, visit the official website or follow Vermont State Parks on social media, as suggested by their communications. Happy planning!