Tent campsites near Craftsbury Common, Vermont typically offer rustic experiences away from amenities while providing access to Vermont's natural landscape. The area sits at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F days and 50-60°F nights. Fall camping season brings cooler temperatures and increased precipitation, requiring proper rain gear and insulation for overnight stays.
What to do
Paddling exploration: Green River Reservoir State Park requires a paddle to reach all campsites, with most sites within a mile of the boat launch. "I love this location because you have to paddle out to a site for camping. It's private, quiet, and really gives you that 'forest bathing' escape," notes Mackenzie B. about Green River Reservoir State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide the best opportunities for spotting local wildlife near primitive camping areas. "Be sure to paddle out to the Beaver Meadow - we have seen moose there several times," recommends Tara S. about Green River Reservoir's natural attractions.
Hiking access: Many primitive tent sites connect directly to trail systems. "The campground is in a perfect spot. About a .3 mile hike to the main trail to climb the mountain," notes Sam T. about Underhill State Park, making it convenient for hikers to access nearby peaks.
Swimming spots: Reservoirs and ponds throughout the region offer swimming opportunities during summer months. "The south tip of the island gets more wind, and therefore waves, which my children greatly enjoyed for swimming," shares Rita M. about Burton Island State Park's water access points.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Many campers appreciate the remoteness of primitive sites. "This 411-acre lake is largely undeveloped and is an excellent spot for swimming, boating and fishing," explains M.A.D. P. about Molly's Falls Pond State Park, which features five first-come, first-served remote hike-in tent sites.
Limited technology access: The absence of electricity and cellular service at most primitive sites creates a true disconnect. "These remote sites are so peaceful," writes Julia S. about Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites, noting the approximately 30-minute paddle required from Cotton Brook launch to reach the campsites.
Stargazing opportunities: Limited light pollution provides excellent night sky viewing. "What can i say about this lovely state park campground? Totally beautiful, private spots, pit toilets and a night sky to die for!" shares Molly G. about Underhill State Park's evening appeal.
Fishing access: Many remote sites offer direct water access for fishing. "Anglers will find a variety of fish including rainbow trout, brown trout, northern pike, pickerel, smallmouth bass and yellow perch here," notes M.A.D. P. about the fishing options at Molly's Falls Pond.
What you should know
Self-sufficiency requirements: Remote camping areas require carrying all supplies. "Basic Camping but awesome! 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. Bathroom is a (super clean) porta-potty," explains Matt H. about Serenity Field.
Early season challenges: Weather can be unpredictable during spring camping. "The composting toilet that you'll share with fishing spiders the size of your hand, slam the lid before use!" warns Julia S. about facilities at Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites.
Site selection matters: The quality of tent spots varies significantly between sites. "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," cautions Tara S. about Green River Reservoir.
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly during peak season. "Very primitive and quiet campground. Great staff and campsites. No shower but one of the best weeks I had camping in a while," notes Michael V. about Underhill State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Bring wheelbarrows: Some walk-in sites provide equipment to transport gear. "This is the best of car camping - you get the feel of really being out in the woods, with your car a short distance away," explains Ali T. about camping at Underhill State Park.
Choose sites by water features: Children particularly enjoy campsites near streams or ponds. "We stayed at campsite 6 and loved waking up to the sound of the stream down the embankment," recommends Ali T. about Underhill State Park's site selection.
Pack extra clothes: Temperature fluctuations require layering options. "Peaceful and charming. We spent the night at this beautiful campsite with a magnificent view of Mount Mansfield. The small amount of camping space made the experience quite unique and private," shares Émylie B. about Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape.
Consider cabin alternatives: Some locations offer basic cabin options for families not ready for tent camping. "We were able to rent one of the cabins for our second night. We will definitely recommend it to others and we will be back again," reports Evan M. about Black Creek Maple's options during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most primitive tent sites near Craftsbury Common cannot accommodate RVs. "Little river st park wide flat camp sites no hookups limited gen. Use hours 8am/10am and 4pm/6pm. Rough road coming to campground. Very quite," warns Nicholas G. about RV restrictions at nearby state parks.
Generator restrictions: Areas that do allow small RVs typically have strict generator usage policies. "Site could hold big rig we have a 28ft 5th wheel plenty of room for 35/40," notes Nicholas G. about the occasional exceptions for RV access at some sites.
