Tent camping opportunities near Dorset, Vermont concentrate primarily in the southern and western sections of Green Mountain National Forest. The forest's elevation ranges from approximately 400 to 3,900 feet, creating varied microclimates and camping conditions throughout the region. Most backcountry camping sites require proper food storage using bear-resistant containers or appropriate tree-hanging techniques, particularly at sites along the Appalachian Trail corridor.
What to do
Swimming and fishing access: Little Rock Pond Group Camp provides direct water access where campers can enjoy swimming in water that's "surprisingly warm for its altitude" according to one visitor. The pond is also home to Common Loons, making it a good wildlife viewing spot.
Island exploration: Long Island Group — Lake George Islands offers unique island camping with boat-in access. One camper reports, "Great island camping with amazing views" and another mentions "chill atmosphere, easy boat parking on the slip."
Winter adventure: For cold-weather enthusiasts, Stratton Pond Shelter provides winter camping opportunities where visitors report: "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."
Off-season camping: Michigan Brook Road camping areas remain accessible in early spring and late fall when other sites have closed. Sites along the brook offer solitude with varied terrain for different camping preferences.
What campers like
Privacy on the water: Glen Island Group — Lake George Islands provides the rare opportunity for complete isolation. One visitor reports they "reserved a spot on our own private island. It was little, slightly wooded, and private... nothing beats being alone and hearing only the tide crashing next to you all night."
Affordable shelter options: Many backcountry shelters in Green Mountain National Forest require minimal fees or are free. Seth Warner Shelter offers a convenient option with one visitor noting it "sleeps 6-7 people. There is a fire pit... IF you arrive late and there is no more room in the shelter use your tent or hammock in one of the many flat perfect spots."
Scenic overlooks: Multiple campsites provide access to elevated views of the surrounding mountains. Trails connecting to tent sites often lead to scenic vistas, particularly during fall foliage season.
Rustic amenities: Most tent sites feature basic pit toilets or composting facilities. At Little Rock Pond, campers appreciate that "there's even a composting privy (#2 only)!!" and a caretaker who maintains the site.
What you should know
Access limitations: Michigan Brook Road Camping requires careful planning as "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" Another camper confirms access issues noting they "attempted to bring my car and was stuck overnight but was able to dig myself out the next morning."
Communication constraints: Cell service is extremely limited or nonexistent at most camping areas. One Michigan Brook Road camper specifically warns: "THIS LOCATION DOES NOT PROVIDE CELL PHONE SERVICE OR WIFI CONNECTION."
Reservation timing: For Lake George island camping, plan far in advance. One camper advises to "Book 9 months in advance & good luck. Last minute cancellations are a common occurrence though."
Wildlife concerns: Multiple sites report regular raccoon activity. At Long Island Group, one camper describes being "bombarded with a group of raccoons each night" making proper food storage essential.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation opportunities: Narrow Island Group — Lake George Islands offers family-friendly water activities. One visitor mentions "We spent the rest of our time kayaking, swimming, hiking in the mountains" and another reports "Great fishing, lots of fun to be had on the water."
Transportation planning: For island camping with children, consider boat rental requirements. One family notes you "definitely need a decent sized boat with a gas outboard to get there" to reach island campsites safely.
Weather protection: Mountain weather changes rapidly in the Green Mountains. Tent sites at higher elevations experience significant temperature drops at night, even in summer months.
Trail accessibility: When tent camping with children at backcountry sites, verify hiking distances and elevation gain. Some shelters require substantial hiking, like Stratton Pond's "3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Dorset restrict vehicle size and access. Michigan Brook Road technically permits RVs but isn't suitable for larger units due to tight turns and rough surfaces.
Seasonal considerations: RV camping in this region generally closes by mid-October. Spring access is typically limited until late May due to mud season and road conditions.
Self-contained requirements: The few RV-accessible camping areas near Dorset require self-contained units as hookups and dump stations are not available at most forest service sites.
Supply planning: Seth Warner Shelter and nearby camping areas are remote with one visitor noting it's "about 6 miles from the nearest town" requiring careful planning for supplies and emergencies.
