Tent campsites near Bellows Falls, Vermont offer camping options from primitive backcountry sites to family-friendly established campgrounds across southern Vermont's varied terrain. The region sits at elevations between 280-3,000 feet, creating distinct camping microclimates. Summer overnight temperatures can drop into the 40s even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s, requiring campers to prepare for significant temperature swings.
What to do
Paddle and explore lakes: Tully Lake Recreation Area provides canoe and kayak rentals for exploring the lake's shoreline and islands. "There's a canoe/kayak launch near the campground, so if you have a waterfront site you may choose to paddle your gear over," notes Jean C. The lake features multiple islands and coves for day exploration.
Winter backpacking: More adventurous campers can experience winter camping at Stratton Pond Shelter. "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!" says Miccal M., who notes the shelter is a 3.75-mile hike from the nearest parking lot in winter conditions.
Waterfall hiking: Multiple campgrounds provide access to waterfall trails. At Tully Lake, the Doane's Falls trail offers a series of five cascading waterfalls accessible via a short walk from the campground. "The highlight was Doane's falls, a very quick walk from the campground area," according to one visitor, making this an ideal morning or afternoon activity.
What campers like
Cart-in camping quiet: Barton Cove Campground features a vehicle-free camping area that requires bringing gear in by cart. "Rustic camping only - sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables. Porta potties and latrines were very clean," reports Brie B., who appreciated the quiet and privacy despite the extra effort in setup.
Lakeside swimming: Several campgrounds feature lake access for swimming. "We take our canoe and spend the whole day at the lake. You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax," says Ben P. about Tully Lake, where swimming is allowed from waterfront sites though there's no formal beach.
Backcountry shelter options: Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters offers a three-walled cabin with tent platforms maintained by a Green Mountain Club caretaker. "Operated by the Green Mountain Club caretaker who lives onsite, this campsite costs only $5 per person per night. There's a big 3-wall cabin with room for at least 12, several tent platforms," explains Meredith C. Water is available from a creek and spring nearby.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water sources at backcountry sites can be unreliable depending on season. At Winturri Backcountry Shelter, Justin P. notes, "Water was running when I was there in mid-August from a spring close to the shelter," but emphasizes that water isn't consistently available year-round at many shelters.
Gear transport logistics: Many campgrounds in the region require carrying or carting gear from parking areas. Zoar Outdoor and others require walk-in access. "It's a bit of a hassle but worth it," reports a camper at Barton Cove regarding the process of unlocking gates, unloading gear, and returning keys during setup.
Fire restrictions vary: Some established sites allow fires while backcountry locations often prohibit them. Zoar Outdoor doesn't permit campfires at individual sites, which one reviewer called "annoying," noting the restriction impacted their camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Cart-friendly campgrounds: Family campers appreciate sites with wheelbarrows for transporting gear. "They provide carts to bring your gear to your camp site," notes one camper at Tully Lake, making this a manageable option for families with children despite being a walk-in campground.
Site selection for bathroom access: When camping with children, consider site location relative to bathrooms. At Tully Lake, Lauren A. found: "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night," suggesting families with young children request sites closer to facilities.
Privacy between sites: Lost Boys Hideout offers improved campsites with mulched areas and amenities. "Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!" writes Steve K., noting upgrades that make the sites more comfortable for family camping.
Tips from RVers
Tent-focused region: Most campgrounds near Bellows Falls prioritize tent camping with limited RV accommodations. Sunapee State Park Campground does offer some sites with electric, water and sewer hookups, though most local campgrounds are tent-focused or primitive.
Non-vehicle camping options: RV campers seeking a break from their vehicles can utilize the tent platforms at many local campgrounds. Barton Cove features platform sites overlooking the Connecticut River with porta-potties and latrines that one camper found "very clean," offering a way to camp without using RV facilities.
