Tent camping near Hartland, Vermont offers backcountry options beyond the popular Appalachian Trail corridor. The region sits within Vermont's humid continental climate zone, experiencing warm summers with temperatures averaging 70-80°F and cold winters that typically drop below freezing. Primitive camping opportunities extend west into Green Mountain National Forest where higher elevations create cooler microclimates and increased precipitation compared to the Connecticut River Valley.
What to do
Swim in natural waters: At Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter, hikers can cool off in a natural swimming hole. "I only explored a bit offtrail down the brook but found a decent swimming hole (could just barely submerge myself) to clean off a bit," reports one camper who appreciated this refreshing feature not found at many AT shelters.
Enjoy scenic dinner spots: Some backcountry sites offer special amenities beyond basic shelter. At Moose Mountain Backcountry Shelter, "The shelter did stand out with a bench overlooking a clearing in the brush with a view which was a great place to enjoy my freeze dried dinner."
Winter exploration: For winter adventures, Michigan Brook Road Camping provides plowed road access to a point, then requires alternative transportation. "The main road to the parking lot is plowed and sanded. However if you would like to continue down the service road during winter months I would highly recommend snowshoes or a snowmobile," notes a camper who learned this lesson firsthand.
What campers like
Multi-level sleeping arrangements: Happy Hill Backcountry Shelter offers a unique layout not found at most AT shelters. According to a recent visitor, "The shelter had a ground floor and a loft but each floor could maybe fit 4-5 people comfortably... The loft was nice since folks could decide to sleep up there while others were down below, either cooking, arriving, or departing."
Bear boxes for food storage: Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter provides a safety feature not common on this section of trail. "There was also a bear box here, which I hadn't seen at other shelters along the AT in Vermont (heading southbound)," notes a hiker who appreciated this security measure for food storage.
New bathroom facilities: Several backcountry sites have recently upgraded privies, with Moose Mountain shelter receiving positive comments. One camper noted, "The privvy was also new and very spacious," making this basic but essential amenity more comfortable than older facilities at other locations.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water sources vary dramatically with rainfall and season. At Winturri Backcountry Shelter, "Water was running when I was there in mid-August from a spring close to the shelter," while other sites report completely dry sources during the same month.
Road conditions for dispersed sites: Michigan Brook Road presents challenges even in good weather. "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" warns one camper who navigated the access road to these more remote sites.
Communication limitations: Most backcountry sites lack cell service. At Michigan Brook, a camper specifically noted "THIS LOCATION DOES NOT PROVIDE CELL PHONE SERVICE OR WIFI CONNECTION," but added that walking to the end of Upper Michigan Brook road provides cell coverage and access to basic services.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility considerations: For families with young children, Cardigan Campsites offers a good balance of amenities and adventure. A camper described it as a "Great spot to spend the night before a climb of Mt. Cardigan! The climb is challenging but shouldn't take too long."
Space requirements for group camping: When camping with multiple people, look for sites with adequate flat areas. Winturri Backcountry Shelter stands out as "the shelter is on the larger side and could fit maybe 6-8 folks. There were lots of tent camping spots as you worked up the hill perpendicular to the shelter."
Limited site availability at road-accessible areas: Michigan Brook camping areas have specific designated spots rather than open camping. A recent visitor clarified, "I found most of the spots to be on the road before the GPS marker. Few nice ones near the creek. I stayed at one on top of a hill, lots of space at mine."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV-friendly options: Michigan Brook Road Camping permits RVs but requires careful consideration of vehicle size and clearance. "Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" emphasizes one RVer who navigated the access road.
Seasonal limitations: Winter RV camping requires advance planning and potential backup options. One winter camper at Michigan Brook reported, "I attempted to bring my car and was stuck overnight but was able to dig myself out the next morning," highlighting the need for proper preparation or alternative vehicles during winter months.
