Green Mountain National Forest surrounds Granville, Vermont, with diverse camping options ranging from established state parks to primitive dispersed sites. Moosalamoo Campground, located about 15 miles southwest of Granville, offers tent and RV camping with basic amenities including drinking water and toilets. Silver Lake Campground provides waterfront sites with access to swimming and boating. For those seeking more solitude, several dispersed camping areas exist along forest roads, including FR207 and FR25, which require no reservations and typically allow stays up to 14 days. The region includes both developed facilities with amenities and remote backcountry sites accessible by hiking trails.
Vermont's seasonal camping window significantly affects availability, with most established campgrounds operating from Memorial Day through Columbus Day weekend. Spring conditions often create muddy forest roads that may require high-clearance vehicles, particularly at dispersed sites. As one camper noted about nearby Michigan Brook, "This area is open for camping year-round but probably only accessible in Spring through early Fall because the dirt road is not plowed." Cell service remains spotty throughout the region, with Verizon coverage varying from 1-3 bars in most areas. Temperatures can drop into the 20s even during late spring and early fall, making proper cold-weather gear essential for shoulder season camping.
Water features prominently in camping experiences near Granville. "The sites are just steps from incredible mountain views, an unbelievable swimming hole, and 3 amazing large waterfalls," reports one visitor to Moosalamoo Recreation Area. Many campgrounds provide access to lakes, ponds, and rivers for recreation. Fall brings spectacular foliage viewing opportunities, with campgrounds often filling quickly during peak color season. The night sky visibility receives frequent mention in reviews, with one camper at a nearby state park noting they "were treated to the most awesome night sky we've ever seen at a Vermont state park." Privacy between sites varies considerably, with state parks generally offering more separation than private campgrounds. Most forest service sites allow pets, while policies vary at state parks.
$15 / night
"there are no amenities other than cascading waterfalls, mountain views, incredible swimming hole, a nearby lake, a picnic table and a fire ring. the easiest access to sites one and two is the Silver Lake"
"Access to campground is on a gravel road but my van did okay. It is small and primitive and there is a camp host who is very nice."
"If you're considering a spot in Vermont to camp, come here! Also, make sure your car has a bit of clearance as some sports have dips in the ground."
"Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests. Upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles."
"It is located in the mountains of Vermont and right next to a beautiful river. The only con was the highway noise since it's pretty close to the road."
"Entrance and exit are a little steep and tricky in the winter, lot wasn’t plowed so AWD/4x4 and good ground clearance are recommended."
"All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!"
"This area is right next to FireRoad 25 rd. We did not camp here we camped on FR25."
"The site was so scenic with a little waterfall and stream nearby. The camp staff was so nice. They kept the the bathrooms and areas so clean."
"Love to lake access, secluded camping, the hiking and remote area. Planning on revisiting next summer, even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time."
"A great peaceful spot right next to the river."
"Loved camping next to the water and hearing the river as we slept. There are fire rings. No bugs."
"All the sites were full when I visited (6 to 8 sites, approximately, but i didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily) , so I didn't get to camp there"
"A little more than half of the sites can be driven to and others require a very short walk (50 ft?). "
"Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome. Very pretty area."
$10 / night
"This is one of our favorite places to camp in Vermont. The sites are fairly private without being built too close together. Lake is clean and has a great concrete dock that the kids love to jump off."
"Lovely place, free camping, fire pits at the campsite, and access to the water. We camped in the off season, but in the on season there are pit toilets and campground stewards."
$15 / night
"Nice hiking trails close to long trail, really tucked away a few miles off 73. Great if you’re looking for some solitude."
"Well maintained, and nice access to trails right from the campground."
GuideRight along the road (so if anything happens you can get help) also has wifi signal. It’s right along a creek that’s clean and beautiful. Crisp air and calming flowing river noises all night made it so I slept like a baby!
GuideDrove all the way here just to pull in and see signs that say “no overnight camping”
ScoutPublic Lands with about 8 semi private sites, each with nice views west or easterly. It's a large meadow and with a breeze, it will keep bugs away. Lacking a breeze, it is tough but still beautiful
TravelerMy favorite campsite we stayed at on my 2 week trip (despite the bugs lol). Great swimming hole and very well kept. Very beautiful and loved my stay.
ScoutPam met us outside as she said ‘dodging rain drops’ to stack wood. She was warm and friendly. You can tell she runs a tight ship immediately telling us when quite hours were, and letting us know the dogs needed to be on leash and under our control. We brought our 2 labs with us. Only 2 vehicles per site is allowed. You do need tokens to use the shower. 2 tokens was more than enough for me to shower and not feel rushed. The bathrooms are AMAZING! I am looking forward to coming back!
ScoutDEC has designated and constructed 12 camp sites in areas around Shelving Rock Road and Dacy Clearing Road. Camping will only be allowed at the designated campsites or more than 500 feet from the Shelving Rock and Dacy Clearing Roads.
ScoutAs noted by others, most of the sites have a fire ring and nothing more. A little more than half of the sites can be driven to and others require a very short walk (50 ft?). The toilets mentioned are at Texas falls area and are not a practical walk from most of the campsites.
There are no showers.
Aside from the loop trail at the falls there are also a couple of snowmobile trails that cross the area.
RangerStayed here for a week. Josh and Dori were super nice and helpful. Level grass field with water and 30amp hookup. Fire pit port o potty, creek across the street. Very pretty setting. Dark sky area. Cell att and Verizon we decent enough to work plus they had WiFi if needed.
RangerWe loved camping at Crane Pond. It was a little over 3 miles to hike into the waterfront sites. There is an outhouse nearby, several campsites, fire pits, and we went for a swim in the pond. Overall great experience!
Granville's location in central Vermont positions it at elevations around 1,000-1,500 feet, creating distinct seasonal conditions for campers. The surrounding Green Mountain National Forest experiences wider temperature fluctuations than coastal areas, with summer days reaching the 80s while nights can drop into the 40s. Local campgrounds feature numerous hiking connections to the Long Trail, Vermont's 272-mile footpath that traverses the main ridge of the Green Mountains.
Swimming holes access: At Moosalamoo Campground, trails lead to natural water features perfect for summer cooling. "Moosalamoo Campground is smack in the middle of the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area, in the Green Mountains of VT... Lots of great hiking accessible from the campground, or within a short drive. Silver Lake and Lake Dunmore are nearby. Both have beaches: Silver Lake is accessible only by foot, down a .6 mile trail from the parking area," explains Nancy M.
Brook fishing opportunities: The numerous streams near Austin Brook provide easily accessible fishing spots. Thomas and James S. note that "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings." The clear mountain waters contain native brook trout during spring and fall seasons.
Mountain biking trails: Several camping areas connect directly to bike-friendly paths. At Moosalamoo Campground, Jill B. mentions "awesome bike trails with smooth trail beds and nice rolling bumps. The kind campground hosts can tell you all about the hiking and biking trails within Mossalamoo National Forest."
Star gazing: The remote location offers minimal light pollution for astronomical observation. Alan from Moosalamoo Campground recommends: "At night, you can go out to the bicycle pump track and lay a blanket on the grassy hill against the track and look at stars in COMPLETE darkness."
Privacy between sites: Branbury State Park Campground offers well-separated camping areas. Nicole E. notes: "There was plenty of space between sites so it didn't feel like you were on top of each other. Bathrooms are flushing compost. However, there are only four showers for the whole campground."
Natural water sounds: Many campers appreciate the soothing sounds of flowing water. Sigrid O. at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 shares: "We were here on a Friday & Saturday nights. Friday night had the whole place to ourselves. Saturday night all spots filled. We had quiet and respectful neighbors... Gorgeous stream/river…love the river sounds."
Spacious sites: The area's campgrounds typically provide ample room. Catherine M. at Branbury State Park Campground observed: "I couldn't believe how large the lots were. While they arent super far from one another, they are large enough that they seem further than they are. Nice beautiful wooded area, we were able to put a tent and hang a hammock for sleeping."
Clean facilities: Despite being rustic, many sites maintain good sanitation standards. Lauren S. from Moosalamoo notes: "Surprisingly clean vault toilets. No showers. There are dumpsters on the way out for trash and recycling. I saw bear storage lockers but I did not use them as I had my bear keg with me."
Road conditions vary significantly: Some of the best places to camp near Granville, Vermont require appropriate vehicles. At Green Mountain National Forest FR207, Miccal M. warns: "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance. Views are spectacular, choose either sunrise or sunset and you should be able to get a site to fit your needs."
Seasonal closures and access: Most dispersed camping areas have limited seasonal availability. Phil J. reports from Green Mountain National Forest FR207: "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful. Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
Limited services: Cell coverage remains minimal and facilities are basic. Dana M. from Moosalamoo Campground shared: "Sites were gravel which helped keep the dog and van clean when we had a thunderstorm with lots of rain. Check in is a self service kiosk. The host campers were there to assist if needed and where very friendly. Pit toilets were very clean and for $15 a night, this campground is well worth the price!"
Bear awareness required: Proper food storage is essential when camping near Granville. Kyle B. from Silver Lake Campground advises: "We had a very relaxing and peaceful camping experience... it's a pack in pack out campground so only pack what you truly need for camping the comforts are more work then they're worth."
Look for sites with built-in activities: Chittenden Brook Campground provides natural entertainment options. James K. reports: "Great tent camping area with good privacy at sites. Would be tough for any but the tiniest RV. No water. Well maintained, and nice access to trails right from the campground."
Choose lakes over streams for swimming: Lakes provide safer water access for children. J L. at Branbury State Park Campground shares: "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits."
Plan for temperature swings: Even in summer, pack warm clothing for children. Nancy M. from Moosalamoo notes: "Moosalamoo Campground is smack in the middle of the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area, in the Green Mountains of VT. 18 campsites, 8 of which are first come, first serve. Ample toilets and potable water available. There is a grassy area in the center of the campground—great for kids, gatherings, etc."
Consider proximity to emergency services: Most campgrounds are 20-30 minutes from medical facilities. Shawn B. recommends Silver Lake: "This is one of our favorite places to camp in Vermont. The sites are fairly private without being built too close together. Lake is clean and has a great concrete dock that the kids love to jump off. They have boat rentals and nature tours on the lake led by the state park faculty."
Size limitations for forest roads: The narrow, winding access roads limit RV size. Thomas R. explains about Moosalamoo: "The campsites are $15 per night and are very well spaced, probably 50 yards apart with lots of trees between, very private. Small campground, I think 19 sites, in one loop. Clean pit toilets and fresh water source. No firewood for sale on-site, but the campground manager told me about a place about 7 miles away that sells very good firewood for $4/bundle."
Choose perimeter sites for maximum space: When camping at established sites, the edge spots provide better turning radius. Melissa M. cautions about Green Mountain National Forest FR25: "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out. Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Water tank refills limited: Plan water usage carefully as refill points are scarce. Franklin R. from Moosalamoo Campground mentions: "This is pretty basic camping, there are the basic outhouse toilets, and parking for about 2 cars. There is also a few spouts to get some fresh water."
Avoid narrow forest roads during spring melt: Road conditions deteriorate significantly during mud season. Joann&WellsThePup I. from Green Mountain National Forest FR207 advises: "About 12 sites off National Forest Road 71. Beautiful area and very secluded. All have fire rings but that's about it. Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Granville, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, Granville, VT offers a wide range of camping options, with 203 campgrounds and RV parks near Granville, VT and 21 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Granville, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Granville, VT is Moosalamoo Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 16 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Granville, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 free dispersed camping spots near Granville, VT.
What parks are near Granville, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 parks near Granville, VT that allow camping, notably Green Mountain National Forest and Green Mountain & Finger Lakes National Forests.
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