What It's Really Like to Live in an RV, According to Someone Who Did It for Years
"A wooded, mountainous campsite setting where mornings could bring close wildlife encounters, such as a barred owl roosting right outside the window, creating tranquil dawn experiences inside a forested national forest landscape." - Jess Dawson
Jess Dawson
A Winnebago-traveling nomad since 2018, Jess Dawson now has a home base outside of Austin. She’s been writing and editing for over a decade, shaping content for companies including Tripadvisor, Roadfood, Slack, GitHub, and more.
Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
The Best New England Road Trip Itinerary (Updated 2025)
"Spanning almost 400,000 acres and established in 1932, Green Mountain National Forest is beautiful for day hikes or multiday trips (parts of the Appalachian Trail run through it); highlights I would seek out include Thundering Falls (a 140‑foot waterfall), the Long Trail (a 272‑mile route), and the panoramic view from the 4,000‑foot Camel’s Hump summit—camping is free unless otherwise posted." - Matthew Kepnes
Green Mountain National Forest is one of those places that makes you slow down and appreciate the outdoors. I loved how peaceful and green everything felt. I hiked part of the Long Trail and was amazed at how calm and refreshing the whole area was. The views from some of the overlooks were stunning, especially when the light hit the mountains just right. I also enjoyed the smaller streams and little wooden bridges along the way. It’s the perfect spot if you want a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Justin H.
Google
I am amazed about the beauty of this forest. It has so many things I never thought could happen or would exist. The Ice beds near Rutland, the White rocks, the great cliff, Deer leap overlook, and the meadows of western VT. This place does not disappoint.
Shelly C.
Google
Fantastic hikes. Waterfall and creeks. Campsites along the route in the statepark. Breathtaking beauty all around.
Dan R.
Google
This place does not disappoint. The thick forest and sparkling rivers are bursting with wildlife and trails. Grab your binoculars for some spectacular bird watching. Go for a easy hike by yourself or with others. You'll love it.
Ruchir V.
Google
Randomly planned trip turned out awesome. We went to White Rock Picnic Area. It's a small Picnic spot with two trailheads: a 3.2 miles Keewaydin trail and a 1.8 white Rock trail. There's an amazing overview and an even better Vista point at 0.4 miles. This area could park around 15 cars in parking spots and some of them on the side of the road. Great place to be during falls.
Taran H.
Google
Lake Shaftsbury. Really lovely lake and park. Bathroom facilities were on site and clean with changing rooms. The beach was clean and not too busy. Lots of places to getaway. The only downside was that the path around the lake has a partial closure that I believe is seasonal. We will absolutely be back to this gem!
Natalia S.
Google
Beautiful state! Wonderful hiking trails along the Appalachian trail/Vermont long trail (same thing for 100 miles). Water is plentiful!!! And tastes amazing!!!! Great camping spots. Beautiful swimming holes (lakes/rivers). Family fun!
Ryan P.
Google
Great fall foliage and beautiful landscape throughout. The views are spectacular and quite beautiful. Enjoy the area and explore it yourself. Good hiking through it and good spots along the way. Definitely worth it