Tent camping in Groton, Vermont provides access to the surrounding Green Mountain National Forest with its temperate hardwood ecosystem at elevations ranging from 900 to 2,100 feet. The region receives approximately 44 inches of annual precipitation with summer temperatures averaging 70°F during the day and 50°F at night. Most tent sites in the area are situated within mixed maple-birch-beech forests that provide natural shelter from wind and rain.
What to do
Hike summit trails: For challenging terrain and elevated views, the trails near Kinsman Pond Shelter offer significant elevation gain. According to one camper, "The hike in isn't easy especially considering you'll need to carry all your gear in to stay," but the reward is "no signs of society (airplanes/cars/phone service)" and proximity to several mountain peaks.
Access water activities: Molly's Falls Pond State Park features a 411-acre lake with minimal development. As one visitor notes, "This 411-acre lake is largely undeveloped and is an excellent spot for swimming, boating and fishing. Anglers will find a variety of fish including rainbow trout, brown trout, northern pike, pickerel, smallmouth bass and yellow perch here."
Morning summit climbs: When staying at Guyot Shelter, consider predawn hikes for spectacular views. One camper recommends: "I highly suggest a sunrise peak if you have the energy to get up early!" Others have noted watching sunsets from West Bond after setting up camp.
What campers like
Platform camping options: The wooden platforms at Guyot Shelter provide flat, stable tent sites at 4,360 feet elevation. A reviewer mentioned, "Amazing views from some of the platforms, easy access to water, friendly park managers. Used this as our midway point for a 2-day pemi loop before our friends wedding."
Water proximity: Garfield Ridge Campsite provides reliable water sources despite its remote location. One camper reports, "Water is pump-able at the intersection to the tent-sites," while another noted "ice cold spring water and sunrise view point" as key features.
Bear-safe storage: Most backcountry sites in the region provide secure food storage options. At Guyot Shelter, campers appreciate the "bear box located at a communal 'cooking area'," and Garfield Ridge offers "Joe boxes for bear protection" according to visitors.
First-come sites: Many tent campers value the undeveloped nature of Serenity Field, where you can "pull your car right up to the site" in a "beautiful field" that's "super quiet and secluded. Literally feet away from kingdom trails."
What you should know
Capacity limitations: Popular backcountry shelters fill quickly during peak season. One camper at Guyot Shelter observed: "Despite being so remote, one of the busiest back country camps in the Whites... Quite a hike dropping down from the main trail to the campsite, 15-20 min straight up to hike out in the morning."
Water filtration needs: Most remote sites require water treatment. At Kinsman Pond Shelter, campers can access water from the pond, but should bring filtration equipment as treatment is not provided on-site.
Platform specifications: Not all tents work with wooden platforms. As one Guyot camper warned, "No space for non-free standing tents." Bring appropriate tent styles or confirm site compatibility before your trip.
Seasonal restrictions: Waterfall & Brook Camping and similar locations have limited operating seasons. Pack extra layers as temperature variations can be significant even during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Shelter alternatives: When camping with children, having backup shelter options is important. At Garfield Ridge, "There are some overflow spots near the spring" which can accommodate families if the main area is full.
Campsite access: Consider the approach difficulty when planning with kids. Jerome notes about Garfield Ridge, "Pretty steep ascend to get in. Water source is 0.1 from campsite," which might challenge younger children carrying gear.
Communication preparation: Most remote tent sites around Groton have no cellular service. One camper at Kinsman Pond Shelter specifically valued "no signs of society (airplanes/cars/phone service)," so plan communication accordingly when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only considerations: Most sites near Groton cater exclusively to tent camping with limited vehicle access. At Mollys Falls Pond State Park, "There are 5 unofficial, remote campsites at the park. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis," but these require foot travel to access and cannot accommodate RVs.
Alternative facilities: RV campers should look toward established campgrounds rather than the primitive tent sites that dominate this region. Most tent-focused campgrounds offer only basic amenities like one camper noted at Serenity Field: "Bathroom is a (super clean) porta-potty."
