Tent campsites near Bolton Valley, Vermont offer backcountry experiences for hikers exploring the surrounding mountains. The area sits within Vermont's Green Mountains at elevations between 1,500-3,500 feet, creating cooler temperatures than nearby valleys. Many campsites require significant hiking with elevation gains of 800-2,000 feet from trailheads to reach established platforms.
What to do
Summit nearby peaks: From Liberty Springs Tentsite, hikers can access Franconia Ridge for day hikes without heavy packs. "Located just off of Franconia Ridge, a great basecamp for anyone doing the ridge or a pemi loop," notes one camper who appreciated the strategic location.
Filter spring water: Most backcountry sites have natural water sources but require treatment. At Garfield Ridge Campsite, visitors mention "ice cold spring water" available at the site intersection, though it's located "0.1 from campsite" requiring a short walk.
Watch sunrise from platforms: Many elevated sites offer morning views worth waking early for. At Guyot Shelter, some tent platforms have "amazing views from some of the platforms" and one reviewer recommends "a sunrise peak if you have the energy to get up early!"
What campers like
Bear protection systems: Many sites feature dedicated food storage systems to prevent wildlife encounters. At Garfield Ridge, campers appreciate "Joe boxes for bear protection" located "right next to the cooking area for overnight use."
Designated cooking areas: Communal spaces for meal preparation create social opportunities while maintaining site cleanliness. One visitor to Kinsman Pond Shelter noted the "amazing stay, no signs of society (airplanes/cars/phone service)" while staying "in the new shelter on the edge of the pond."
Remote water recreation: Some sites offer swimming and boating opportunities despite their secluded locations. At Molly's Falls Pond State Park, visitors find "an excellent spot for swimming, boating and fishing" with "rainbow trout, brown trout, northern pike, pickerel, smallmouth bass and yellow perch."
What you should know
Platform tent requirements: Many backcountry sites only accommodate freestanding tents. A Liberty Springs visitor warns there are "tent sites are platforms, so make sure to have a free standing tent" though "there are a couple 'overflow' spots the caretaker may let you stay in if you can't use a platform."
Trail difficulty considerations: Access to prime sites involves challenging terrain. Kinsman Pond Shelter requires a "tough hike in, but worth it for the quiet and secluded location" where "the hike in isn't easy especially considering you'll need to carry all your gear in to stay."
Site popularity management: During peak seasons, arrive early or mid-week. At Liberty Springs, visitors note it "gets packed on weekends" while Garfield Ridge can be "a busy hub on AT" where "when we arrived there were very few spots left."
Tips for camping with families
Water source proximity: Evaluate water access when selecting sites with children. At Garfield Ridge, the "water source is 0.1 from campsite" making water collection a separate chore requiring planning for family needs.
Toilet facilities: Backcountry privies vary in maintenance and comfort. Visitors to Garfield Ridge Campsite found a "clean privy" while another noted that at Guyot the "privy is a bit of a walk" from some platforms.
Platform selection strategy: For families, choose platforms based on privacy needs and safety. Some platforms at Guyot are described as "very isolated" while others offer group camping potential with approximately "10 platform sites" available throughout the area.
Tips from RVers
Alternative accommodations: RV camping is limited near Bolton Valley's backcountry sites, but some nearby properties offer cabin options. The Dugout Hideaway provides a tent site with vehicle access, making it suitable for those wanting easier access while still experiencing tent camping.
Base camp considerations: Use established campgrounds with amenities as staging areas before venturing to remote sites. For those not ready for backcountry, Molly's Falls Pond provides "5 unofficial, remote campsites" that are "available on a first-come, first-served basis" with basic amenities and closer road access.
