Tent campsites near Barton, Vermont occupy diverse terrain within the Connecticut River Valley and surrounding highlands. Most primitive camping spots sit between 800-1,200 feet elevation, with temperatures averaging 70-75°F during summer days and dropping to 50-55°F overnight. Winter camping isn't recommended as temperatures regularly fall below freezing from November through April, and many sites close seasonally.
What to do
Paddle to remote sites: Green River Reservoir State Park Campground offers a true wilderness experience requiring a paddle to reach campsites. One camper reports, "We have camped is several different sites - most recently, #12. This was definitely not our favorite. It was difficult to find a flat tent spot, and the site seemed very overused. Our favorite spots are # 13, 24, and 30, and the earlier in the year you reserve, the more choices you will have."
Explore riverside trails: At Lyman Falls State Park Campground, campers can access short walking paths along the Connecticut River. "We started a multi day canoeing trip from this spot. While close to the road, it's not highly trafficked and the road noise is almost non-existent which was a nice surprise. The riverbank is a great spot to fish from and enjoy the afternoon sun," notes a visitor.
Mountain hiking: Underhill State Park Campground provides direct trail access to Mount Mansfield. A camper explains, "The campground is in a perfect spot. About a .3 mile hike to the main trail to climb the mountain. The camp sites are nice but a little close together."
What campers like
Private tent sites: Serenity Field offers "Semi private tent only camping in a beautiful field! Can pull your car right up to the site. Super quiet and secluded. Literally feet away from kingdom trails. Drinking water available and bike wash."
Fishing opportunities: The Connecticut River Paddlers Trail includes Scott C. Devlin Memorial site where "There is a picnic table, fire ring and composting toilet box seat. The takeout is easy to miss if you aren't looking as it sits right in the bend of the river... There is a flat area at the top of the steps where you can tie up your boat for the evening."
Night sky viewing: Campsites away from towns offer exceptional stargazing. At Underhill State Park, campers find "totally beautiful, private spots, pit toilets and a night sky to die for! The rangers are extremely helpful and very friendly."
What you should know
Tick prevention: Several primitive sites report tick issues during warmer months. At Maine Railroad Trestle, a camper warns "If you walk through the campsite, there is a massive cornfield, just beware that the ticks in the field are insane! They weren't bad in the campsite but in the grass, they were epic."
Site registration: While many dispersed sites don't require formal reservations, some utilize honor systems. For Connecticut River sites, "While reservations are not required, there is a registration page on the CT River Paddler's Trail Website that they ask folx to complete just so spots don't get overcrowded."
Toilet facilities: Most primitive tent sites near Barton have basic sanitation options. At Scott C. Devlin Memorial, expect a "composting toilet box seat" rather than plumbed facilities. Lyman Falls provides "a great vault toilet" according to recent visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Wheelbarrows available: Underhill State Park Campground makes gear transport easier with "wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff, and the campsites are super clean and well organized. We stayed at campsite 6 and loved waking up to the sound of the stream down the embankment."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children enjoy wildlife spotting at several locations. At Green River Reservoir, "Be sure to paddle out to the Beaver Meadow - we have seen moose there several times."
Quiet hours enforcement: Families appreciate reliable quiet time at established campgrounds. At Underhill State Park, "Quiet hours were definitely observed. Easily one of the best camp sites I've stayed at."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape and Tent Haven primarily caters to tent campers but offers alternative accommodations when weather turns poor: "Weather was not cooperative and my fiancé and I were able to rent one of the cabins for our second night... Clean water, fire wood and cooking rack are provided for your first night."
Tent platforms recommended: Many sites in this region have uneven ground, so bring leveling blocks if using a small trailer. A camper at Green River Reservoir noted, "This was definitely not our favorite. It was difficult to find a flat tent spot, and the site seemed very overused."
Water access: RVers visiting Barton area tent sites should bring water containers. While some sites have water available, many primitive locations require filtering from natural sources.
