Best Tent Camping near Fairlee, VT
Tent campsites near Fairlee, Vermont include several backcountry options along the Appalachian Trail, with Trapper John and Moose Mountain Backcountry Shelters offering both shelter and tent camping areas. These primitive tent sites are located within the Appalachian National Scenic Trail corridor and require hiking in to access. The area provides a mix of established tent platforms and more rustic ground sites for backpackers and overnight hikers seeking a wilderness experience.
Most tent camping areas near Fairlee require hikers to pack in all necessary supplies, as amenities are minimal. The backcountry shelters typically include a three-sided wooden structure, designated tent platforms or cleared tent sites, and a composting toilet or privy. Water sources are available but seasonal and unreliable during dry periods, requiring filtration or treatment before use. One camper noted that "the water source was dry during my trip which was expected during the drought." Bear boxes are present at some sites but not all, so campers should be prepared to hang food properly where boxes aren't available.
The tent camping experience along this section of the Appalachian Trail offers solitude and immersion in Vermont's forested landscape. Sites are generally well-spaced with level areas for tent setup, though some locations have limited flat ground. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, "the tent camping here was ok, with some slightly slanted spots around the main shelter area." Hikers frequently use these tent sites as overnight stops during section hikes rather than as destination campgrounds. The primitive nature of these backcountry tent sites means campers should be self-sufficient, carrying all necessary gear including water treatment systems, food storage equipment, and waste disposal bags. Most sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted, though some may require permits or have fees during peak hiking season.
