Tent camping near Addison, Vermont offers opportunities for rustic camping in the Green Mountains region, with elevations ranging from 170 feet near Lake Champlain to over 1,000 feet in the forested areas. Dispersed camping options in Green Mountain National Forest require proper waste management as most sites lack facilities. Small streams and waterways run throughout the camping areas, creating natural sound barriers between sites.
What to do
Hiking at Mount Philo: Access scenic hiking trails directly from Mount Philo State Park Campground where campers can explore Vermont's oldest state park. "You can't beat them in the Summer, Spring, Fall, or even snowshoeing in the winter," notes one regular visitor about the trails and views.
Swimming opportunities: Visit Charlotte town beach near Mount Philo for a refreshing swim. "Recommend nearby Charlotte town beach for swimming ($10 for non-residents)," suggests a camper who stayed at Mount Philo State Park.
Waterfall exploration: The Davey Falls ADK campground offers a unique opportunity with "private waterfall, hiking trails" according to a review, making it an "amazing secluded creekside spot" for tent campers seeking natural water features.
Mountain climbing: Access popular High Peaks from tent sites at the Wilderness Campground. "You can hike Algonquin, Iriquois, Wright Peak, and Mt. Jo all right from the campground," notes a reviewer who appreciated the direct trail access.
What campers like
Sunrise viewing spots: Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake provides exceptional morning views. "My favorite part about camping here is getting up early and hiking the short trail to the top for a spectacular sunrise," writes one visitor who recommends this morning ritual.
Private camping spots: Sites vary in privacy levels across the region. A Mount Philo camper notes, "Sites 1, 6 and 8 and the best if you're only camping with those at your site as they're the most secluded and private. Sites 2 and 3 are more open, to both each other, and to those en route to the bathrooms."
Natural sound experiences: Patterson Brookside camp offers sites with natural soundscapes. "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road," mentions a camper who enjoyed the riverside setting.
Affordable camping options: Free dispersed camping can be found throughout the region. "Nice location" with a "small number of sites" is how one camper describes the Green Mountain National Forest FR25 dispersed camping area.
What you should know
Facility limitations: Most dispersed sites lack basic services. For Patterson Brookside camp, one reviewer cautions: "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in."
Seasonal challenges: Winter access varies significantly across camping areas. At Michigan Brook Road Camping, a camper warns, "The main road to the parking lot is plowed and sanded. However if you would like to continue down the service road during winter months I would highly recommend snowshoes or a snowmobile."
Theft concerns: Security can be an issue at remote sites. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 reported: "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Reservation needs: Popular established campgrounds fill quickly. Mount Philo State Park Campground contains "only seven tent sites and three lean-tos" and visitors recommend booking "early" as the small campground can reach capacity during peak seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom access planning: Mount Philo offers clean but limited facilities. "Bathrooms were very clean. Coin-op shower with hot water is 50 cents for 5 minutes, 75 cents for 7:30, etc.," notes a camper, providing specific costs for families planning their stays.
Site selection strategy: For families at Mount Philo, site choices matter. "Sites are well groomed and have a fire pit and picnic table," says one reviewer, while another points out that some sites are "more open" than others, affecting privacy between neighboring families.
Weather preparations: Green Mountain Forest camping requires proper rain gear. One camper at FR25 reported: "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out," highlighting the need for waterproof equipment in this area.
Off-site amenities: Poke-O-Moonshine campground offers "Waterfront access to Long Pond" according to a reviewer, providing families with swimming opportunities beyond their campsite.
Tips from RVers
Road condition warnings: Access roads to many sites require careful driving. For Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake, a motorcyclist cautions, "Road going in is very rough use extreme caution on a motorcycle with street tires."
Site leveling challenges: Terrain varies significantly across the region. At Michigan Brook Road, one camper noted some sites are "on top of a hill" while others are closer to water sources, affecting RV placement and leveling requirements.
Size limitations: Most tent camping areas near Addison cannot accommodate larger RVs. Route 100 Dispersed Camping has "3-5 campsites right off of route 100" but one reviewer specifically mentions it has limited space and is primarily suitable for smaller setups.
Winter access issues: Michigan Brook Road camping requires planning for snow conditions. A winter camper reported, "I attempted to bring my car and was stuck overnight but was able to dig myself out the next morning," highlighting the need for appropriate vehicles during winter visits.
