Dispersed camping options near Arlington, Vermont extend beyond the Green Mountain National Forest locations. The area sits in the Taconic Mountains where elevations range from 600 to over 3,900 feet, creating varied terrain for camping experiences. Weather conditions can change rapidly throughout the year with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and dropping to 50-60°F at night.
What to do
Pond swimming and fishing: At Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters, the pond offers swimming in surprisingly warm water despite the elevation. According to a camper, "The pond is surprisingly warm for its altitude and it's home to two Common Loons. There's a huge jumping rock on the far side of the pond."
Winter hiking access: Stratton Pond area remains accessible for winter camping with proper preparation. A winter visitor noted, "Spent the weekend here on the last weekend of Feb. 2024. Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods with only the people I hiked in with. It was great!"
Trail exploration: Ushers Road State Forest provides multiple trail options for day hikes from your camp. A visitor reported, "I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall."
What campers like
Private farm camping: Maple Ridge Farm offers walk-in tent sites with more amenities than dispersed camping. A recent visitor shared, "Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites. They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot."
Long Trail shelter system: Seth Warner Shelter provides options for both shelter and tent camping along the famous trail. A hiker mentioned, "Its .2 miles off the LT/AT and sleeps 6-7 people. There is a fire pit. If you arrive late and there is no more room in the shelter use your tent or hammock in one of the many flat perfect spots."
Common areas and facilities: Some private campgrounds near Arlington provide indoor common spaces. At Maple Ridge Farm, "The owners were so friendly and excited to welcome campers. They have a common room that has games and eggs for sale. Toilet and shower were very clean."
What you should know
Wildlife precautions: Bears and raccoons are present throughout the region. At Seth Warner Shelter, a hiker advised, "Hang your food! Watch for bears and coons."
Seasonal closures: Always verify campground status before traveling. Red Mill Brook campground was reported as "Closed" by a visitor attempting to camp there.
Reservation policies: Some private campgrounds maintain strict booking policies. At Zoar Outdoor, a camper noted frustration: "Not a happy camper... can not because of a 12 hour advance policy. There were plenty of tent sites available last night."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: The best tent camping near Arlington, Vermont for families includes farm stays with easier access. One family noted, "They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot."
Activity-based camping: Consider campgrounds with built-in activities. Zoar Outdoor combines camping with water recreation as described by a visitor: "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river."
Maintained facilities: For camping with children, prioritize locations with reliable bathrooms. A camper at Zoar Outdoor commented, "Amenities are well maintained. Could use a refresh but overall great experience."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Arlington tent camping vastly outnumbers RV-suitable sites. Most dispersed camping near Arlington requires tent accommodation or small vans with no hookups.
State forest alternatives: For those with smaller RVs, state forests like Ushers Road State Forest allow primitive camping. A visitor noted camping is permitted "anywhere in the woods as long as it's at least 150 feet off the trail."
Preparation requirements: When considering dispersed RV camping near Arlington, Vermont, plan to be fully self-contained. No dispersed areas offer water, electric, or dump facilities, requiring campers to manage all systems independently.
