There is something about summer camping in Vermont that feels made for families. The days are longer, the evenings are cooler, and the best memories often happen around a picnic table, a grill, or a campfire. I love the way camping gives families a chance to slow down, get outside, and enjoy time together without needing an overly complicated plan. Whether you are celebrating Father’s Day, planning a weekend around a local festival, or looking for a comfortable home base near Burlington, Fairfax, Stowe, or the surrounding area, summer is the perfect time to make Vermont part of your family tradition.
With Father’s Day coming up on Sunday, June 21, 2026, a camping weekend is a meaningful way to celebrate Dad. Instead of another gift that ends up on a shelf, a Vermont getaway gives him something better — time with the people he loves. A relaxed weekend with BBQ, firewood, campground activities, and evenings by the fire is simple, personal, and easy to enjoy. Families can make it as active or as quiet as they want, from exploring nearby attractions to grilling dinner together and ending the day under the stars.
The summer fun continues with the Vermont Renaissance Faire, happening June 27–28, 2026. This is a great themed weekend for families, groups, and travelers looking for something a little different. Costumes, entertainment, food, shopping, and the festive atmosphere make it a fun day trip, especially when paired with a camping stay. I love the idea of spending the day at the Faire and then coming back to the campground for a peaceful evening around the fire. Learn more here: https://www.vtgatherings.com/vtrennfaire.html
The Burlington and Fairfax area will also be part of the excitement surrounding the BTV Independence Day Celebration 250, taking place Friday, July 3, 2026, from 5–11 p.m. at Waterfront Park in Burlington. The celebration is expected to include fireworks, food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities, making it a wonderful reason to plan a Vermont camping getaway around the holiday weekend. Staying near Fairfax gives families the best of both worlds — easy access to Burlington’s waterfront celebration while still enjoying the quieter pace of camping, campfires, and small-town Vermont. Learn more here: https://www.burlingtonvt.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=4434
As part of the 250th Celebration, Maple Grove Campground will be hosting a Maple Grove’s Hot Dog Celebration with all the fixings! Join us for hot dogs piled high with your favorite toppings — chili, relish, onions, Vermont cheddar, and more. Best of all, we’ll be serving it up with plenty of good friends, campground fun, and community spirit. 11AM – 3PM no reservations required!
Another great summer event is Strawberry Jam, returning to Stowe, Vermont on Saturday, August 8, 2026, for a full day of world-class live music, local food, and community celebration in one of Vermont’s most beautiful settings. Presented by Strawberry Hill Farm and Zenbarn, with partial proceeds supporting Jenna’s Promise, Strawberry Jam 2026 brings together national and local artists spanning funk, soul, bluegrass, rock, improvisational music, and Grateful Dead–inspired sounds — all on one stage, one unforgettable summer day. The festival takes place at Strawberry Jam Music Festival, 300 Meadow Lane, Stowe, VT 05672. Tickets are available here: https://app.opendate.io/e/strawberry-jam-august-08-2026-630794
Music lovers can also look ahead to Grand Point North 2026, presented by Grace Potter and Lawson’s Finest Liquids, taking place September 18–20, 2026, at Waterfront Park in Burlington, Vermont. This benefit for the Grand Point Foundation brings an incredible weekend of live music to the Burlington waterfront, with performances by Grace Potter, Portugal. The Man, The Devil Makes Three, All The Rivers, Jesse Taylor Band, Dawes, Trampled by Turtles, Maggie Rose, Frankie White, Rose Asteroid, Dark Star Orchestra, and Dogs in a Pile. It is another perfect reason to turn a Vermont camping trip into a full weekend getaway.. Learn more here: https://www.grandpointnorth.com/
From Father’s Day cookouts to Renaissance Faire adventures, Vermont’s 250th celebration, summer music festivals, campground picnics, and quiet nights by the fire, there are so many reasons to plan a family camping getaway in Vermont. Whether you come for one weekend or build your whole summer around local events, camping gives you the space to reconnect, explore, and make memories that last long after the season ends.
See you soon,
Michael
