Green Mountain National Forest surrounding Dorset, Vermont offers diverse tent camping options ranging from established campgrounds to backcountry sites. Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters, located approximately 15 miles northwest of Dorset, provides tent-only camping with several tent platforms and access to swimming. Stratton Pond Shelter, situated in the southern section of the forest, offers primitive tent camping with tent platforms near one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail. Michigan Brook Road Camping in the national forest provides walk-in tent sites with riverside locations for those seeking more seclusion.
Most tent campsites in the region feature basic amenities with varying levels of accessibility. Sites typically have dirt or forest duff surfaces with minimal grading, and many include established fire rings where permitted. Access to Michigan Brook Road becomes challenging during spring thaw when roads become muddy and rutted, requiring vehicles with higher clearance. Campers should bring their own water, as most backcountry tent sites have unreliable or seasonal water sources. Vault toilets are available at established sites like Little Rock Pond and Stratton Pond Shelter, but primitive tent camping areas may lack facilities entirely. The camping season generally runs from late spring through early fall, with winter access limited by snow conditions.
Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for hiking the interconnected trail systems, including the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail. According to reviews, Little Rock Pond offers "large tenting areas where multiple tents could fit and which looked quite level," making it popular for group tent camping. The pond provides swimming opportunities with "a huge jumping rock on the far side." At Stratton Pond Shelter, one visitor noted the site has "2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter," with a 3.75-mile hike required from the nearest parking lot. Michigan Brook campsites offer more privacy, with one camper recommending "the spot before the bridge that's right next to the river" as the best option for primitive tent camping.
"One of many locations along Forest rd 71, this spot was a good place to pitch a tent for the night while exploring the area even in the rain."
"We stayed at one near the creek just over a little bridge. Cute little site, nice fire pit, clean, perfect rock to put a big water jug on. The sound of running water was soothing."
"There's a big 3-wall cabin with room for at least 12, several tent platforms, and there's even a composting privy (#2 only)!!"
from $5 / night
"Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods with only the people I hiked in with. It was great! The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter. "
from $100 - $300 / night
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $28 / night
"DEC has designated and constructed 12 camp sites in areas around Shelving Rock Road and Dacy Clearing Road."
"I have stayed on Nobles Island & Floating Battery Island in the Narrows of Lake George. You must have a power boat ride out there or be up for a long paddle."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $28 / night
"I stayed at this campsite located at the end of upper Michigan road. It is winter and there is a lot of snow. The main road to the parking lot is plowed and sanded."
"Few nice ones near the creek. I stayed at one on top of a lots of space at mine."
ScoutIt was dark. I arrived after 7p. There were 3 rv camps already going on. All 3 had camp fires. Many fire rings for many groups. No hassles at all. It's off the beaten path but worth it. The first 4 camp sites were open. Made a fire. Ate some food. I got a good night sleep. Nothing ate me or attacked me so that's 5 star in my book.
ScoutThe recreation hall was a nice surprise. We had some rainy weather one afternoon and the kids were able to play games while we relaxed for a bit. Saved the day honestly😂
ScoutWe came up looking for a campground where we could actually spend a few days without constantly driving somewhere. Ended up fishing, swimming, walking along the river and exploring the area. The campground gave us plenty to do, but it was also nice having the option to just sit at the campsite and do nothing. Would definitley come back.
ScoutWe have a big RV and had no trouble getting settled in. Having the full hookups made things super easy, especially for a longer stay.
ScoutNothing beats sitting by the river after a long day of exploring. We visited a few places around the Lake Sunapee area and this was a really convenient home base.
GuideThere was a few sites 5-6 we didn’t get to the eastern loop. But the sites we saw were very secluded. All had fire pits ours had a picnic table. And was right next to the creek. Would highly recommend if you want to get away from city lights. All sites are not maintained. We had a small off road camper it was easy In and out some sites could be hard with larger pull behinds. Some sites might need 4wd to get in and out we had lots of mud after a lot of rain.
ScoutWe brought the kids and they found plenty to do. Between the pool, river and recreation area, they were pretty much entertained the entire trip.
ScoutWe rented a cabin and honestly it was perfect for what we needed. Spent the days exploring around Lake Sunapee and came back here to relax at night.
GuideNice campground near Killington, VT. Water and dump station. Not for big rigs we have a 21 ft TT. Things were tight but doable. One of the few Vermont state campgrounds that is still open. Most close from second Monday in October until Memorial Day.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Dorset, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Dorset, VT is Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 with a 4-star rating from 4 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Dorset, VT?
TheDyrt.com has all 38 tent camping locations near Dorset, VT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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