Camp Kiki

For Vermonters who live and breathe mountain biking, hiking, and exploring the heart of the Northeast Kingdom, finding a truly "ride-in, ride-out" camping spot is a game-changer. Look no further than Camp Kiki in East Burke, VT. This isn't just a place to set up a tent; it's a strategically located haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering unparalleled access to the legendary Kingdom Trails and a charming small-town experience all in one. Praised by locals for its fantastic location and the incredibly helpful owners, Camp Kiki embodies the authentic Vermont outdoor adventure you've been seeking.

Camp Kiki offers a unique and highly sought-after camping experience in the vibrant outdoor hub of East Burke, VT. Located at 201 E Darling Hill Rd, East Burke, VT 05832, USA, this primitive campground operates two distinct campsites, "Sunrise" and "Birch Run," each designed to provide a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders. The core appeal of Camp Kiki lies in its direct integration with the famous Kingdom Trails, making it a dream come true for mountain bikers and hikers. What truly sets this spot apart, however, is the personal touch from owners Lisa and Jim, who are consistently lauded by visitors for their responsiveness, helpfulness, and genuine desire to make your stay exceptional. It's the kind of small, family-run business that Vermonters appreciate, combining a rustic camping feel with thoughtful amenities and an unbeatable location, making it perfect for both seasoned adventurers and those just discovering the joys of the Northeast Kingdom.

The location of Camp Kiki is arguably its strongest selling point for Vermonters eager to maximize their time outdoors. Situated at 201 E Darling Hill Rd, East Burke, VT 05832, USA, the campground boasts literal "ride-in, ride-out" access to the extensive Kingdom Trails network. This means you can hop on your bike or lace up your hiking boots directly from your campsite and immediately be immersed in miles of world-class trails, from mellow green routes suitable for beginners to more challenging terrain for experienced riders. Beyond the trails, Camp Kiki is "walkable to town," placing you within easy reach of East Burke's charming amenities, including restaurants, bars, a grocery store, and bike outfitters. This blend of immediate trail access and village convenience means you can park your vehicle and truly enjoy a car-free vacation, embracing the relaxed pace of a Vermont outdoor getaway. Its spot at the bottom of Darling Hill Road, near the Kitchel trail, puts you right in the heart of the action, making exploration effortless and enjoyable for locals.

Camp Kiki provides a focused set of services designed to enhance a primitive camping experience, with an emphasis on convenience for outdoor enthusiasts:

• Two Private Campsites: Camp Kiki operates two separate, dedicated campsites, "Sunrise" and "Birch Run," ensuring a more private and personalized camping experience.
• Cedar Tenting Platform: Each site is equipped with a 12' x 12' cedar tenting platform, providing a level and dry base for your tent.
• Stone-Ringed Fire Pit: A designated fire pit at each site allows for safe and enjoyable campfires, perfect for cooking or simply relaxing under the stars.
• Wood Prep Table: A convenient wood prep table is provided at each site, making it easier to manage your firewood.
• Picnic Table: Each campsite includes a picnic table, ideal for outdoor meals and gathering.
• Bike Rack: A dedicated bike rack at each site is a thoughtful amenity for mountain bikers, ensuring secure storage for their gear.
• Private Use Port-a-Potty: Each campsite has its own well-maintained, private port-a-potty, ensuring cleanliness and convenience.
• Trash and Recycling Bins: On-site bins are provided for easy disposal of trash and recyclables, encouraging responsible camping.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase on-site, saving you the hassle of bringing your own (and helping prevent the spread of invasive insects).
• Access to Coin-Operated Showers: While not on the immediate campsite, coin-operated showers are available 24/7 next to the Kingdom Trails parking lot at Mike's Tiki Bar, just a short walk, bike, or car ride away.
• Accommodation for Small Campers/Vans: The sites can accommodate small campers or vans up to 20 feet, in addition to multiple tents.
• Self-Check-In: The campground operates on a self-check-in basis, providing flexibility for arrival.

Camp Kiki's key features and highlights make it a top choice for local Vermonters seeking an active outdoor getaway:

• Unbeatable "Ride-In, Ride-Out" Trail Access: This is the ultimate highlight. Being directly on the Kingdom Trails network means you can literally start your mountain biking or hiking adventure from your campsite, eliminating the need for shuttles or driving to trailheads.
• Walkability to East Burke Village: The convenience of being able to walk to town for restaurants, bars, a grocery store, and bike outfitters adds immense value, allowing for a car-free experience once you've arrived.
• Private and Well-Equipped Campsites: With only two dedicated sites, campers enjoy a sense of privacy. Each site is thoughtfully equipped with a tent platform, fire pit, picnic table, and bike rack, catering specifically to the needs of outdoor adventurers.
• Exceptional Host Responsiveness: Owners Lisa and Jim consistently receive glowing reviews for being "incredibly informative and helpful" and "very responsive," creating a warm, welcoming, and problem-free experience for guests.
• Cleanliness of Facilities: Despite being a primitive campground, the on-site port-a-potties are noted for being "clean," which is a significant positive for any camper.
• Family-Friendly Trails Nearby: For those new to mountain biking or with children, the proximity to mellow green trails and skills parks (like the Wildflower trails) makes it an inclusive destination for all skill levels.
• Authentic Vermont Experience: The down-to-earth atmosphere and direct connection to the local East Burke community provide a genuine Vermont camping adventure.

While Camp Kiki is a small, privately run campground and may not always advertise large-scale promotions like bigger resorts, it's always recommended for local Vermonters to inquire directly about any potential special offers. Given its focus on providing a quality experience, they might offer:

• Mid-week Rates: It's common for campgrounds to have slightly lower rates for stays Sunday through Wednesday compared to weekend or holiday periods. For example, their website indicates midweek rates (Sunday - Wednesday) at $50 and weekend rates (Thursday - Saturday) at $65, suggesting a built-in discount for off-peak days.
• Extended Stay Discounts: If you're planning a longer trip, perhaps for a week or more, it’s worth asking if they offer any reduced rates for extended stays.
• Off-Season Specials: While Camp Kiki is a seasonal operation, early spring or late fall bookings might sometimes come with special incentives, depending on demand.

The best way to uncover any specific promotions or current deals is to contact Lisa and Jim directly. A quick call to (802) 227-2543 or +1 802-227-2543 could provide valuable information, especially if you have flexible travel dates. Always mention if you're a returning guest, as many small businesses appreciate loyalty. Keep in mind that their pricing structure is for a maximum of 6 people per site, including children, which already offers good value for families or small groups.

To plan your ideal mountain biking and camping adventure at Camp Kiki, or for any questions about availability and specific site details, you can reach out using the following contact information:

• Address: 201 E Darling Hill Rd, East Burke, VT 05832, USA
• Phone: (802) 227-2543
• Mobile Phone: +1 802-227-2543
• Email: campkikivt@gmail.com

Given the owners' reputation for responsiveness, reaching out by phone or email is highly recommended. You can also visit their website for FAQs, rules, and to book your campsite directly. Remember that a two-night minimum stay is typically required on weekends (Friday and Saturday), and a three-night minimum for holiday weekends.

For Vermonters, Camp Kiki stands out as the ultimate basecamp for experiencing the unparalleled outdoor recreation of the Northeast Kingdom. Its truly "ride-in, ride-out" access to the legendary Kingdom Trails is a dream come true for mountain bikers and hikers, allowing for maximum trail time without the hassle of driving. The added convenience of being "walkable to town" means you can enjoy East Burke's local eateries, bars, and shops without ever needing your car once you've arrived. Fellow Vermonters consistently praise the owners, Lisa and Jim, for their exceptional helpfulness and responsiveness, embodying the genuine, friendly spirit of our state. The thoughtful amenities at each of their two private sites, including cedar tenting platforms, fire pits, picnic tables, and crucial bike racks, demonstrate a clear understanding of what outdoor enthusiasts need. Even with primitive camping, the provision of clean, private port-a-potties and access to nearby coin-operated showers ensures comfort. If you're a local seeking a truly immersive, convenient, and authentically Vermont outdoor adventure with a personal touch, Camp Kiki is highly recommended. You'll likely find yourself, like many other happy campers, wishing you could stay "a few more nights."

Camp Kiki

201 E Darling Hill Rd, East Burke, VT 05832, USA