Tent campers visiting Greensboro Bend, Vermont find themselves in the Northeast Kingdom region where elevations range from 900 to 1,500 feet. This area experiences cold winters with significant snowfall and mild summers with temperatures averaging 70-80°F during peak camping season. Most tent sites remain open from late May through mid-October, with water-access locations requiring additional planning for equipment transportation.
What to do
Paddle to remote sites: Green River Reservoir State Park requires campers to transport all gear via canoe or kayak to designated sites. "I love this location because you have to paddle out to a site for camping. It's private, quiet, and really gives you that 'forest bathing' escape," notes Mackenzie B. The reservoir spans 653 acres with 19 miles of shoreline containing 27 individual campsites.
Explore hiking trails: Underhill State Park serves as an excellent base for hiking adventures. "A short walk from the group campsite takes you straight to various (amazing!) hiking trails," shares Molly G. The campground sits at the foot of Mount Mansfield, providing direct access to Vermont's highest peak.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Green River Reservoir offers excellent wildlife encounters beyond the campsite. "Be sure to paddle out to the Beaver Meadow - we have seen moose there several times," recommends Tara S., highlighting specific areas where wildlife concentrations are highest.
What campers like
Natural separation between sites: Tent sites at Underhill State Park provide privacy through natural features. "Camp spots were far enough away from one another, trees helped with privacy, and the tent site had a great area to setup the tent," explains Bojangles R., highlighting the thoughtful layout that preserves a wilderness feel.
Primitive amenities with convenience: Serenity Field balances basic amenities with accessibility. "Semi private tent only camping in a beautiful field! Can pull your car right up to the site. Super quiet and secluded. Literally feet away from kingdom trails. Drinking water available and bike wash," reports Matt H., noting the campground's strategic location for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Morning ambiance: Campers frequently mention the sensory experience of mornings at these tent sites. "We stayed at campsite 6 and loved waking up to the sound of the stream down the embankment," shares Ali T. about Underhill State Park, highlighting how natural water features enhance the camping experience.
What you should know
Boat-in camping preparation: Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites require specific preparation. "These remote sites are so peaceful. Be sure to launch from cotton brook road if your site r11-27. We made the mistake of parking at little River rd the first time and the paddle to r14 from there was way too long," advises Julia S., noting the approximately 30-minute paddle from the preferred launch point.
Site terrain variations: Tent platforms and ground conditions vary significantly between sites and campgrounds. "The spot where you set up tent at this site was on a slope, others sites might be better," Julia S. mentions about Waterbury Reservoir, suggesting campers should bring equipment for uneven terrain.
Toilet facilities: Composting and pit toilets are standard at most tent campgrounds in the region. "The bathroom is a composting toilet that you'll share with fishing spiders the size of your hand, slam the lid before use!" warns Julia S. about Waterbury Reservoir facilities, providing practical advice for sensitive campers.
Tips for camping with families
Wheelbarrow access: Underhill State Park offers practical solutions for family gear transport. "They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff, and the campsites are super clean and well organized," notes Ali T., making the walk-in tent sites more manageable for families with children or multiple gear items.
Quiet environment: Families appreciate the enforced quiet hours at established campgrounds. "Quiet hours were definitely observed. Easily one of the best camp sites I've stayed at," confirms Bojangles R. about Underhill State Park, ensuring families can count on restful evenings.
Proximity to facilities: When camping with children, consider site location relative to facilities. "Bathrooms were clean and well stocked," reports Sam T. about Underhill State Park, though noting "The camp sites are nice but a little close together," suggesting families select sites strategically based on bathroom proximity and privacy needs.
Tips from RVers
Generator limitations: Little River State Park (part of the Waterbury Reservoir area) has specific generator usage windows. "Limited gen. Use hours 8am/10am and 4pm/6pm. Rough road coming to campground. Very quite," explains Nicholas G., noting the precise hours when generator noise is permitted.
Road conditions: Access roads to tent camping areas near Greensboro Bend often present challenges for larger vehicles. "Rough road coming to campground," warns Nicholas G., though noting their 28-foot fifth-wheel had "plenty of room for 35/40" at their site.
