Tent camping near Barre, Vermont offers access to diverse terrains ranging from 700 to 4,000 feet in elevation across the Green Mountains. The camping season typically runs from May through mid-October, with most primitive sites closing after the first significant snowfall. Waterways like the Winooski River and Stevens Branch provide natural boundaries and recreation opportunities for campers exploring the region.
What to do
River swimming access: At Green Mountain National Forest FR25, campers can enjoy direct water access. One visitor noted, "Gorgeous stream/river…love the river sounds," while another mentioned sites are "scattered along small stream" with "some people really entrenched with string lights."
Sunrise hikes: Mount Philo State Park offers short trails leading to spectacular views. Campers report "getting up early and hiking the short trail to the top for a spectacular sunrise" with views that "overlook lake Champlain and the mountains of VT and NY."
Paddling to remote sites: Waterbury Reservoir offers boat-in camping options for those seeking solitude. A camper advised, "Be sure to launch from cotton brook road if your site r11-27. We made the mistake of parking at little River rd the first time and the paddle to r14 from there was way too long."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Underhill State Park receives praise for its secluded camping areas. One camper mentioned it's "the best of car camping - you get the feel of really being out in the woods, with your car a short distance away," adding "they provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff."
Primitive camping with facilities: At Mount Philo, visitors appreciate the balance of wilderness and amenities. A camper noted, "Bathrooms were very clean. Coin-op shower with hot water is 50 cents for 5 minutes, 75 cents for 7:30," and "The toilets are composing toilets...in a nice, well maintained proper bathroom."
Riverside camping options: Patterson Brookside camp provides varied accessibility levels. A visitor explained, "There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience... Some of the sites are drive in, some are walk in, but all are primitive."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many primitive camping areas close during winter months. At Patterson Brookside, "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF," while Mount Philo operates from "Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack basic amenities. A camper at Green Mountain noted, "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, no outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in."
Reservation requirements: Molly's Falls Pond State Park operates differently than many parks. A visitor reported, "There are 5 unofficial, remote campsites at the park. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis."
Wildlife considerations: Bears can be a concern in some areas. At Camel's Hump State Park, campers mentioned "The area had a host who was there 24/7 and a shared area for eating and food storage (I guess Bear's are a problem there)."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming options: When tent camping near Barre with children, look for sites with safe water access. One family at Route 100 noted it "has 3-5 campsites right off of route 100. This is right next to Mad River with a area to walk down into a swimming hole."
Close-to-car options: Waterfall & Brook Camping offers walk-in tent sites with water access while keeping vehicles nearby, an important feature for families with young children or lots of gear.
Park activities: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities. At Molly's Falls Pond, a visitor noted, "There is a boat launch with 2 fishing platforms, plus a nearby port-o-let. Swimming is allowed off the shoreline, but is restricted at the boat launch."
Spacing between sites: For families seeking privacy, Mount Philo offers well-separated sites. A camper advised, "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."
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: When approaching tent camping areas near Barre with any vehicle, check road conditions first. A visitor to Route 100 noted, "Entrance and exit are a little steep and tricky in the winter, lot wasn't plowed so AWD/4x4 and good ground clearance are recommended."
Size limitations: Most primitive camping areas have restrictions. Mount Philo specifically notes that "because the road is steep and winding, it's not suitable for RVs."
Parking distances: At Underhill State Park, campers report the sites being "far enough away from one another, trees helped with privacy," making it necessary to carry gear from parking areas to tent sites.
