1 campground with availability this weekend
The Green Mountain National Forest area surrounding Jamaica, Vermont offers several established tent camping options, primarily along trail systems and near scenic bodies of water. Stratton Pond Shelter provides tent campsites alongside cabin accommodations in a dispersed backcountry setting, while Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters offers a more established tent camping experience with picnic tables and toilet facilities within hiking distance of scenic ponds.
Sites throughout the region typically require campers to pack in their own drinking water, as most tent campgrounds lack reliable water sources, particularly during dry summer months. Tent platforms are available at some locations like Little Rock Pond, where a visitor commented that "the pond is surprisingly warm for its altitude and it's home to two Common Loons." Walk-in access is common across most tent camping areas, with many requiring hikes of varying distances from parking areas. Vault toilets or composting privies are present at established shelters but absent at more remote primitive tent sites. Most locations permit fires in designated rings, though seasonal restrictions may apply during dry periods.
Tent campers seeking solitude will find the backcountry shelters along the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail particularly appealing. These areas provide flat tent pads near three-sided shelters, offering flexibility between covered and open-air camping. A camper wrote that Little Rock Pond is "easily my favorite campsite in the Northeast" with tent platforms and a composting privy for just $5 per person per night. Michigan Brook in the Green Mountain National Forest offers more accessible primitive tent campsites with drive-in access to riverside spots. The area includes multiple camping spots near a bridge crossing the brook, though visitors should note the complete absence of facilities and limited cell service. For tent campers seeking a balance between amenities and natural surroundings, Maple Ridge Farm provides private tent sites with showers and toilets within walking distance from parking.
"One of many locations along Forest rd 71, this spot was a good place to pitch a tent for the night while exploring the area even in the rain."
"We stayed at one near the creek just over a little bridge. Cute little site, nice fire pit, clean, perfect rock to put a big water jug on. The sound of running water was soothing."
"Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods with only the people I hiked in with. It was great! The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter. "
from $125 - $500 / night
"There's a big 3-wall cabin with room for at least 12, several tent platforms, and there's even a composting privy (#2 only)!!"
from $5 / night
"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."
from $25 - $30 / night
"While hiking the Long trail i stopped at the seth warner shetler for one night. Its .2 miles off the Lt/At and sleeps 6-7 people. There is a fire pit."
"Two tents allowed per site, no alcohol although no one checked. No water or electricity at the sites. You park & walk in but they provide carts. You have to buy firewood from them."
"Tully Lake Campground is located in Royalston, MA, which is a northern part of Central Massachusetts, near the New Hampshire border."
from $40 / night
ScoutIt was dark. I arrived after 7p. There were 3 rv camps already going on. All 3 had camp fires. Many fire rings for many groups. No hassles at all. It's off the beaten path but worth it. The first 4 camp sites were open. Made a fire. Ate some food. I got a good night sleep. Nothing ate me or attacked me so that's 5 star in my book.
ScoutThe recreation hall was a nice surprise. We had some rainy weather one afternoon and the kids were able to play games while we relaxed for a bit. Saved the day honestly😂
ScoutWe came up looking for a campground where we could actually spend a few days without constantly driving somewhere. Ended up fishing, swimming, walking along the river and exploring the area. The campground gave us plenty to do, but it was also nice having the option to just sit at the campsite and do nothing. Would definitley come back.
ScoutWe have a big RV and had no trouble getting settled in. Having the full hookups made things super easy, especially for a longer stay.
ScoutNothing beats sitting by the river after a long day of exploring. We visited a few places around the Lake Sunapee area and this was a really convenient home base.
ScoutWe brought the kids and they found plenty to do. Between the pool, river and recreation area, they were pretty much entertained the entire trip.
ScoutWe rented a cabin and honestly it was perfect for what we needed. Spent the days exploring around Lake Sunapee and came back here to relax at night.
GuideNice campground near Killington, VT. Water and dump station. Not for big rigs we have a 21 ft TT. Things were tight but doable. One of the few Vermont state campgrounds that is still open. Most close from second Monday in October until Memorial Day.
ScoutFirst time camping in this area and we really liked it. The pool kept the kids busy and we spent the evenings around the fire.
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.
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!"
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."
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."
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."
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Jamaica, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Jamaica, VT is Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 with a 4-star rating from 4 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Jamaica, VT?
TheDyrt.com has all 30 tent camping locations near Jamaica, VT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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