1 campground with availability next weekend
Tent campsites near Grafton, Vermont offer a mix of established and backcountry camping experiences with several hike-in sites located along the Appalachian Trail. Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters provides tent platforms within hiking distance of a natural pond, while Stratton Pond Shelter features free tent camping in a backcountry setting with access to one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail. Many tent sites in the area are maintained by the Green Mountain Club, with minimal fees for overnight stays.
Most tent camping areas require significant walking from parking areas, with no drive-up access to individual sites. Tent platforms are common at established sites, providing level surfaces for setup. Basic amenities like composting toilets are available at many backcountry shelters, though drinking water must typically be sourced from nearby springs or streams and treated before use. Fire regulations vary by location, with some shelters like Winturri and Stony Brook prohibiting open fires while others permit them in established fire rings. Most sites enforce "pack it in, pack it out" policies with no trash service available.
Tent campers at Little Rock Pond enjoy swimming opportunities with water that's "surprisingly warm for its altitude," according to one visitor. The pond is home to loons and features a large jumping rock on the far side. Backcountry tent sites along the Appalachian Trail, such as Stony Brook, offer peaceful settings with varying amenities. A camper noted that Stony Brook has "large tent areas where multiple tents could fit and which looked quite level" and features a nearby swimming hole. Michigan Brook provides more accessible tent camping with several spots near a bridge and riverside location, though reviewers emphasize the importance of proper waste disposal at these more remote sites.
"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."
"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 $125 - $500 / night
"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
"Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites. They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot."
from $25 - $30 / night
"Two tents allowed per site, no alcohol although no one checked. No water or electricity at the sites. You park & walk in but they provide carts. You have to buy firewood from them."
"Tully Lake Campground is located in Royalston, MA, which is a northern part of Central Massachusetts, near the New Hampshire border."
from $40 / 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."
"Note: This is a hike in back country shelter with unreliable water and a pit bathroom. I tented here on a section hike of the AT."
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.
TravelerGorgeous pond filled with lily pads!
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.
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.
Backcountry camping around Grafton, Vermont offers hikers access to sections of the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail through the Green Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 feet. Water sources vary seasonally with numerous streams and ponds accessible from trail shelters. Summer temperatures typically range from 50°F at night to 80°F during daytime, while spring camping often means navigating muddy trail conditions as snow melts.
Swimming at natural ponds: Michigan Brook offers tent camping spots near water, though visitors should practice proper waste disposal. According to one visitor at Stratton Pond Shelter, the lake "is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail" and provides a refreshing destination after hiking the 3.75-mile trail from the nearest parking lot.
Hiking to waterfalls: Just 15 minutes from some camping areas, Doane's Falls features a series of five waterfalls along an ascending wooded path. A camper at Tully Lake Recreation Area notes the falls are "beautiful, and it's not unusual to spot professional nature photographers at various points along the waterfalls."
Canoeing and kayaking: Several campgrounds offer boat rentals for exploring local waterways. At Tully Lake, campers can "either paddle or walk into your site" with waterfront access at select campsites, making it convenient to explore the lake during your stay.
Rustic camping with modern amenities: Campers appreciate the balance between wilderness experience and basic comforts. A visitor to Maple Ridge Farm mentioned, "They have a common room that has games and eggs for sale. Toilet and shower were very clean. Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites."
Peaceful tent platforms: Many backcountry sites feature level wooden platforms that keep tents dry during wet weather. At Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter, a hiker noted "there were a few large tent areas where multiple tents could fit and which looked quite level" making it suitable for small groups.
Vehicle-free camping: The absence of cars creates a quieter experience. A camper at Tully Lake praised this feature: "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay."
Water treatment required: Most backcountry sites have no treated drinking water. At Stony Brook, "there was no water on the shelter, but there was plenty of water at Stony Brook / Mink Brook a bit further northbound" where hikers can filter or treat water from natural sources.
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by location with several shelters prohibiting open fires. At Winturri Backcountry Shelter, fires are not allowed, but the shelter offers compensation through its size and can "fit maybe 6-8 folks" with "lots of tent camping spots as you worked up the hill perpendicular to the shelter."
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have poor or no cellular coverage. Tully Lake campers note "cell coverage is pretty close to absent or poor in most of the area, so download any maps you might want (driving, trail, geocaching) before you arrive."
Site reservations: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for summer weekends. For Tully Lake, "sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year)" requiring advance planning.
Pack light for walk-in sites: Many tent camping areas near Grafton require walking from parking areas to campsites. A visitor to Zoar Outdoor noted the campground is "connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river," making it worth the extra effort to reach tent sites.
Choose sites near facilities: For families with young children, select campsites closer to restrooms. At Barton Cove, staff help match needs to sites: "The office was super helpful when I called to make reservations, making sure to ask questions about how big my tent was, what kind of view/privacy we wanted etc so they could help me find the perfect campsite."
Consider group shelters: For family reunions or larger gatherings, some areas offer designated group sites. At Stratton Pond Shelter, facilities include "2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter," accommodating various sleeping preferences within a single group.
Stick to established campgrounds: Most backcountry sites near Grafton are tent-only with no RV access. For RVers, look for campgrounds with walk-in tent sites while parking your vehicle in designated areas. While most local sites don't accommodate RVs, tent camping opportunities abound for those willing to hike in from parking areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Grafton, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Grafton, 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 Grafton, VT?
TheDyrt.com has all 33 tent camping locations near Grafton, VT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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