Tent campsites near Jamaica, Vermont span several areas of the Green Mountain National Forest, with most sites at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F, with much colder conditions during spring and fall seasons. The region receives significant precipitation year-round, creating challenging trail conditions during wet periods but sustaining lush vegetation throughout the camping areas.
What to do
Paddle on Tully Lake: Tully Lake Recreation Area offers canoe and kayak rentals for exploring the water. Camper Jean C. noted, "From the main entrance, collect a cart, load your gear, and following the appropriate divergent paths from the parking lot or bath house (they are color coded)."
Hike to waterfalls: Multiple waterfall trails connect to camping areas near Jamaica. Nancy R. wrote about Tully Lake, "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area."
Winter camping excursion: For cold-weather adventurers, Stratton Pond Shelter provides winter camping options. One camper reported, "Spent the weekend here on the last weekend of Feb. 2024. Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods with only the people I hiked in with. It was great!"
What campers like
Island camping sites: Several tent camping spots offer unusually private settings. Jean C. wrote about Tully Lake, "One site gives you an island to yourself," while another camper mentioned the site provides "a small rise; I suspect that was appreciated the night 4 inches of rain fell recently!"
Quality facilities despite remoteness: Seth Warner Shelter maintains basic amenities despite its backcountry location. Daniel S. noted, "Its .2 miles off the LT/AT and sleeps 6-7 people. There is a fire pit... IF you arrive late and there is no more room in the shelter use your tent or hammock in one of the many flat perfect spots."
Private farm camping: Maple Ridge Farm provides an alternative to forest service sites. Les R. reported, "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."
What you should know
Bathroom location challenges: At some campgrounds, bathroom facilities are centralized rather than distributed. Jean C. noted about Tully Lake, "The bathrooms offer flush toilets and a single shower on each site, plus a dishwashing sink outside. From some of the sites, this will be a long walk during the night."
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have minimal connectivity. According to a Tully Lake camper, "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."
Campsite entry procedures: Some sites have specific check-in protocols. Brie B. described Barton Cove Campground: "You check in at the office, grab a key to unlock the gate, drive to the campground, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, unload your stuff, drive to gate, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, return key, drive back to campground, walk to your site."
Tips for camping with families
Cart-based camping access: Many camping areas use a cart system for gear transport. At Tully Lake, Miguel B. explained, "There is no driving up to the sites, but there is a main parking area and a few sites 50-100 yards away from it. The sites near the water or on bluffs are further away, and though they provide carts the trails can make hauling them tough."
Kid-friendly water activities: Zoar Outdoor provides organized water adventures suitable for families. Dominick V. shared, "Staff was awesome, went out of their way to take care of our group from camping to rafting. Highly recommend the site. Amenities are well maintained."
Vehicle-free camping environments: Some parents appreciate the car-free camping areas. Megan G. noted about Tully Lake, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited options for larger vehicles: Most camping areas near Jamaica are designed for tent camping with minimal RV accommodations. Seth K. observed at Zoar Outdoor, "They don't allow fires at the campsites though which is annoying and their quiet hours are quite oppressive," suggesting tent campers would find more flexibility elsewhere.
Seasonal access considerations: Many Forest Service roads become impassable for larger vehicles during shoulder seasons. At Red Mill Brook, visitor reports indicate weather and seasonal closures significantly impact camping accessibility, with one visitor simply noting the area was "Closed" during their attempted visit.
