Searching for a tent camping spot near Lake Elmore? The Dyrt is an easy way to find tent camping spots near Lake Elmore. Would you prefer a quiet dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities? Either way, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.
Underhill is within Vermont's 39,837-acre Mt. Mansfield State Forest. On the headwaters of the Brown's River, at about 2,000 feet elevation, the park lies on the west slope of 4,300 feet Mt. Mansfield, the state's highest peak. Just over the summit ridge is the Stowe ski area, one of North America's original ski resorts.
The elevation and corresponding exposure to harsh climatic conditions have resulted in some relatively unusual vegetation types along the mountain's summit ridge. The low, stunted-plants found in the alpine tundra near the summit, very rare in New England, are more typical of types found on broad expanses of Arctic tundra a thousand miles farther north. These plants are fragile (if you hike to the summit, please stay on marked trails).
The park is probably best known for its hiking. There are four trails to the summit ridge of Mt. Mansfield from Underhill State Park. Walking up the gated road from the park headquarters, the trails begin branching off shortly above the group camp area. The Sunset Ridge Trail, 3 miles to the summit, is the most popular. Vermont’s Long Trail traverses the summit ridge and, with several trails from the other side of the mountain, many loops are possible. Hiking information and trail maps are available at the park headquarters.
Facilities / Amenities The CCC-built pavilion has a fireplace and picnic tables The CCC-built pavilion has a fireplace and picnic tables The upper camp area, about 3/4 of a mile above the ranger station, has 7 lean-to sites and 2 tent sites, pit toilets, and is reserved for organized group-use. In the lower camp area, around the contact station, are 11 tent sites and 6 lean-to sites. There is cold water and flush toilets in the restrooms, but there are no showers.
Access to all campsites requires a short walk. Campsites are not accessible by vehicle.
The park also has a CCC-built sheltered tentsite tentsite that can be rented for up to a maximum of 8 people. The site comes with a picnic table and the shelter fireplace is to be used in lieu of a fire ring. Additionally, there are 2 standing grills adjacent to the shelter. The sheltered tentsite is $51 per night plus the $8 reservation fee.
Off-season access: The park gate remains open after park closes until the first snowfall. Once it snows, the gate is closed until there is sufficient snowfall to ski into the park, then it is reopened until spring melt.
Welcome to Green River Reservoir State Park. Green River Reservoir became a state park in March 1999 when 5,503 acres were purchased from the Morrisville Water and Light Department. This is not your typical Vermont State Park – Green River Reservoir provides camping and paddling experiences in a remote setting. All campsites can only be reached by paddling to them - some are a 1 to 2-mile paddle from the launch site. The park will remain in its wild and undeveloped condition, with low-impact, compatible recreational use allowed on and around the Reservoir. Management activities will be only those necessary to maintain the property’s character, protect the environment and critical resources, demonstrate sustainable forest and wildlife management, control excessive recreational use, and ensure high-quality outdoor experiences for visitors. The 653-acre Reservoir includes about 19 miles of shoreline, one of the longest stretches of undeveloped shorelines in Vermont. Access to the park is in the southern part of the Reservoir off of Green River Dam Road. The Reservoir is designated as a “quiet” lake under Vermont “Use of Public Waters Rules.” Boats powered by electric motors up to 5 mph and human-powered watercraft (canoes, kayaks, etc.) are allowed. There are 27 remote campsites at various locations around the Reservoir. Camping is allowed only at designated campsites and can only be reached by boat. Each remote site has a maximum site occupancy based on the characteristics of the site. There are two designated group campsites that can accommodate up to 12 people each. Some campsites are closed each season and rehabilitated due to overuse through the years. There is also an ADA accessible boardwalk that leads from the parking area to an accessible boat launch. The best way to protect all sites is by using a portable stove instead of a campfire for cooking. Please carry out what you carry in and leave no trace of your visit. Day use is allowed on the reservoir in limited numbers. Please do not use campsites for day use activities. There are designated day use sites where fires are permitted. Please build fires only at these sites and in the provided fire rings. Respect the areas of the shoreline that are closed to use for re-vegetation of the sites. Group Use: In order to provide a primitive camping/paddling experience, only two groups of 8 to 12 (maximum) people are allowed for either camping or day use at one time. Group permits are required for day and camping uses during the season. A license or special use permit may be needed for group activities during the off-season. Please contact the park directly to reserve group sites. Parking: Parking is extremely limited and is available on a first come, first serve basis. Once the parking areas are full, visitors will not be allowed to enter the park.
$20 - $50 / night
Across acres of rolling fields and maple woods, enjoy the many open tent sites and sleep under the stars! Relax on our family's off grid homestead, containing trails through our woods for hiking, snow shoeing, cross country skiing and more.
During July and August the wild berries make a wonderful treat. Try your culinary skills over the campfire while the children play and explore nature. As night falls, a campfire with smores hosts a wonderful end to the days fun. After, tuck the children in and listen to the night sounds under the stars!
Looking for more fun, only ten minutes to restaurants, shops, zip line and bike trails. Swim, kayak, or fish in The Lamoille or Brewster Rivers. The ski resorts and resort villages offer loads of summer fun indoors and outdoors! Also, less than thirty minutes from the Canadian border! Your site is only 1/4 mile from "The Rail Trail" used year-round as recreational fun and part of the VAST system for snow mobiles. Or bring your ATV to enjoy off road trails nearby.
Each site is provided a bundle of firewood for cooking and warmth (more available for an up charge). Also, 5 gallons of clean well water (more available for an up charge). There is a compost toilet available for use and an outdoor shower with room temperature water. A hot pancake breakfast can be available for an additional fee.
Get back to basics and enjoy all that nature has to offer at Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape and Tent Haven!
$35 - $45 / night
Camping at the Waterbury Reservoir’s remote sites is a real backcountry adventure! Although every campsite provides a fire ring and toilet, the rest is a primitive experience. You will be far from other people and resources, surrounded by a beautiful wilderness. Campers are strongly encouraged to use cook stoves or bring their own firewood, also to pack water filters, adequate food/shelter and emergency supplies.
Camping Reservations
Beginning May 2, 2022, at 9:00 a.m., all 27 remote campsites along the reservoir perimeter will become available to reserve for any date in the 2022 operating season. Beginning June 1, 2022, reservations for the 2023 season will become available to be reserved up to 11 months in advance like other Vermont State Parks. Reservations can be made online, or through the park’s reservation call center at 1-888-409-7579, beginning at 9:00 a.m. The maximum stay will be limited to 7 nights. Regular camping fees will be charged like other state park camping areas. Every remote campsite has a maximum occupancy of 6 people, unless otherwise posted. Kayaks at the reservoir Kayaks sit at the waters edge. Facilities/Amenities
Dispersed all around the Reservoir are 27 remote campsites, each with a roofed composting toilet. Several day use areas, some also with toilets, are also provided for recreational use from sunrise to sunset. Day Use areas are locations where fires are permitted until closure at sunset.
While there is no camping (as stated by the sign) near the water - this is day use only - there are 9 remote established sites available.
Remote Camping: There are 9 remote camping sites, available on a first-come, first-serve basis. During the operation season, overnight campers are asked to self-register at the rear of the contact station.
$10 / night
$23 / night
INDIAN BROOK CAMPING FACILITIES RULES & REGULATIONS
Camping is permitted at designated campsites only. Receipts must be displayed on the dash of the car. Not more than five (5) people, regardless of age, may occupy one campsite. The designated ‘Renter’ must be at least 18 years of age and is responsible for the conduct of all campers and visitors on the site. Campsites shall be kept in a neat and clean condition at all times.
CANCELLATION: The rental fee will not be refunded if notice is received less than one week prior to the reservation start date. All cancellations must be processed through the office (81 Main Street, Essex Junction, (802) 878-1342).
GENERAL VISITOR CONDUCT: Acts endangering others, disorderly conduct, intoxication, or otherwise obscene language will not be tolerated. Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
$15 - $20 / night
$25 - $30 / night
Legend
I almost gave this campground three stars. Our lean-to, Hickory is situated in a lovely meadow, but quite close to other campers and a view that overlooks the campground road. There is very little shade and no privacy. Other sites in the campground have a similar feel. Some of the wooded tent sites are quite private, but most are not.
Despite not feeling all that private, I was impressed with the sandy beach on Lake Elmore and the hiking trail up to the top of Elmore Mountain. Because this is the only trail within the park, it does get really busy on the weekends, and I found it nearly impossible to give 6-feet of space to other hikers because of how narrow the trail is. I would not hike this on a Saturday in summer or fall, at least not until the threat from COVID is behind us!
The restroom in the campground loop we were in was very clean but outdated. The sinks are cold water only, which I normally wouldn't mind, but the temps dropped into the 20s during our trip, which made washing up a little bit painful.
Because our lean-to was in a meadow with no tree coverage, we were treated to the most awesome night sky we've ever seen at a Vermont state park. It was mesmerizing! I only wish that I had the skills with a camera to capture it! It totally erased all my grumblings about not having privacy. Starry sky for the win!
Guide
Great tent site, site 1 can have 3 platform and fire pit
Legend
My wife and I spent 10 days at this remote tent site. Our site was on the far western end of Kettle Pond and the only tent site in the remote camping area. A trail that goes around the pond is easily accessed from site 10. We were able to watch the Loons teaching it's chicks to hunt for food. A bit of work to get to this site but every bit worth the trade off for peace n quiet!
Traveler
Nice family campground nestled in between route 15 and the lamoille River. Great car accessible tent sites right on the water and plenty of amenities that the kids will love. We'll stocked camp store and two pools. It can get a bit noisy due to the proximity to the highway, but it's still a good option for car camping in this part of Vermont.
Guide
Nice and big tent sites. Pool and playground were a big hit. Everyone was so friendly. We will be back for sure!
Scout
A great place. Peaceful and quiet, camp sites are well maintained, great fire pits. Plenty of different tent sites available, a nice walk down to the lake. Enjoy.
Traveler
Smaller tent sites. One centrally located bathroom. Nice mix of sun and shade. Convenient to down town and waterfront. Beach is beautiful and conveniently close to sites.
ScoutA lovely family camp ground with rv and tent sites, all near the bathrooms, amenities galore, and a great camp store. Visited in early October and was not disappointed. A wonderful stay.
Guide
Beautiful destination! Take a walk up the path next to the chasm. So relaxing listening to the water falls. Great place to watch the sunset! Make sure you bring a light jacket in the summer, the evenings can still get chilly from time to time. If you are camping here in the fall, check out Rulfs orchard for some apple picking. Fillion's diner is amazing and super reasonable pricing.
You can rent a cabin if you don't want to camp in a tent. Nice way to stay away from mosquitoes and black flies. Tons of activities to do here: hiking, biking, walking, disc golf, etc.
Guide
I only got to stay two nights here but it was veey nice. only seven tent sites and three Leanto so pretty secluded. the best part is every night its only a ten minute hike to the summit from where the sites are and you get to watch the sunset over Vermont and lake champlain as the sun falls behind the adirondack mountains, its quite an amazing site. very highly recommended if y oi u want piece and quiet and that mountain feel with a stunning view.
Traveler
Very clean and quiet campground mostly set up for RVs. All RV sites have water, sewer, and electric. Tent sites have water and electric. Toilets and showers were very clean but showers were coin op. A bit on the pricey side but you’re close to everything in the NEK.
Scout
Spent a few nights here as a base camp while hiking some of the mountains in the area. 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.
Facilities were accessible and clean. Quiet hours were definitely observed. Easily one of the best camp sites I’ve stayed at.
Scout
Excellent Campground. Good location. Pretty sites with plenty of room. Good sites for both large and small campers. Our site was an easy pull through, wooded site, close to bath house, plenty big enough for our T@B 320. Tent sites looked very nice as well. Clean bathrooms.
ScoutKettle Pond is a classic northern pond set in Vermont's Groton State Forest. Besides the group camping area, which can get busy, the pond has six lean-tos (across the pond from the group sites) and one tent site. They've got fire pits, crappers and a fair amount of privacy. The first two lean-tos are a few hundred feet apart. But the rest are fairly private, spread out along a trail that rings the pond. You must park in the lot and walk to all these sites. The farthest, most remote site, is about a mile from the parking lot. Here's a map: https://vtstateparks.com/assets/pdf/groton-remote.pdf
Scout
3 night stay, tent camping on a site with water and electric. The site we had was quite large, I had booked an end site (#73) hoping it would be big! The campground staff was friendly, and worked hard to keep the bathrooms and showers clean. The camp ground is within minutes of Ausable Chasm, which offers great hiking trails and rafting/tubing. We had a great time on this camping trip!
GuideGreat campground with a mix of full hookup and tent sites! Many sites along the river and nice grassy sites near the front. Sites were spacious and well maintained. The campground is perfectly located for access to Franconia Notch. Highly recommend. The only negative was a mini-golf course that was falling apart but they still charged for to use.
Legend
Quiet little park on Ricker Pond. I have been camping at this park for 50 years. 3 generations of our family get together when we can. The pond is great for swimming, kayaking, fishing and exploring. Plenty of things to do in the Groton State Forest as well. Plenty of prime lean-to and tent sites on the wate. Site #8 is our favorite but it is very popular
Legend
I will start by saying I have not stayed here. I looked into and toured this campground looking for a place for my extended family to camp at while in the area. While it does have a few tent sites, and a pond it is mainly a RV camping site with long term RV rentals. It was not the kind of place I wanted My nephews camping at.
RangerThis beautiful, small state park has a beach on the shores of Lake Elmore and a hiking trail to the fire tower atop Elmore Mountain. There are 45 spacious tent/RV sites. The campground was nearly empty during our stay so it felt extremely private. No hookups are available but there is a dump station and a bathroom facility with paid showers.
Scout
This campground was fantastic! Tucked away in a beautiful part of Vermont, the campground is right on Groton Lake with a swimming area and designated boat launch. There's also an access path to the Montpelier & Wells River Rail Trail.
The campsites are really nice with tent sites and leanto options. The overall facility was really well kept. What stood out the most at this campground was the staff! I was having car issues and the staff was extremely helpful in helping me fix the problem! They kept checking in and asking if I needed anything, helped me research solutions, and even on their own time tried to tinker with my car to figure it out. It was above and beyond expectations! I really enjoyed my stay here and will make a point to come back.
Guide
I couldn’t find a specific option for this campground, so I used a nearby one. This is Lake Willoughby near Lakewood. There are tons of primitive camping spots here. Lakewood has an available convenience store with a heap of RV and tent sites. There are also multiple parking lots in range where people camp out of their cars and absolutely no one will bother you. The view here is something you can’t capture in photos. also- There’s a nude beach for those of you who are interested!
GuideUpon arrival, the front desk clerk was very nice and helpful. We found our way to the tent sites, nestled in the very back corner which for us was exactly what we like. Sites were a medium distance apart but still spacious enough to not be close to neighbors. Showers and restrooms were nearby and it being a weekday, there really wasn’t much traffic of campers or hikers. It was cozy and tucked into the woods with town only being a few miles away!
Guide
Can’t say enough good things about this place. It is a private landowners land, and she has various camping options including a cabin, hives, or open locations for rv or tent camping. We stayed for a long weekend with friends in a separate rv, and then a friend who rented a hive. The land is 8 acres, and you feel a sense of privacy and serenity. You hear roosters in the morning from a local farm. The views are vast, and it’s relaxing.
Logistically, there is a good place for rv parking below the garden hoop house. It is a flat long gravel area, which can access power, but you’ll need an extension chord or two to reach it. The hives are set back from this area and behind other gardens, near a water source. There is a cabin in the middle of the property, and then additional rv or tent camping in another area above the main house, which also has an electric hookup. Each area is far enough away from the others that you feel a sense of privacy and serenity.
There is a common area building on the property with Wi-Fi, a bathroom and a kitchen area, which seemed to be used mostly for making tea or accessing the kitchen sink for water. I am not sure if you could use it for cooking - you would need to ask the landowner. It has a small sitting area with tourism/hiking/sightseeing guides and maps. We used it to check email and make phone calls, as cell access is spotty in this general area of Vermont and we didn’t have a cell signal by our rv. You can shower and use the toilet. I would recommend bringing your own soap and shampoo.
There are a few fire pit areas on the property, and the land owner will show you where you can find wood in the surrounding woods. The gardens are full of flowers and vegetables. There is also a sauna and a yoga room, neither of which we used.
It truly is a magical environment. You are a few minutes away from Cabot, which is very small. The area is a hiking and gravel biking hot bed. The “Ride the Ridges” gravel ride passes the property, so you can do the course from there. There are numerous hikes of all distances and difficulty in this area of Vermont.
LegendVermont’s oldest state park has just 10 campsites (7 tent sites and 3 lean-tos). We’ve stayed there a few times, and even during high summer the campsites aren’t usually full. The park itself is busy during the day, in part because the views from the top of Mt. Philo are incredible, and you can drive your car right to the top for an impromptu picnic.
My favorite part about camping here is getting up early and hiking the short trail to the top for a spectacular sunrise. The sites are very private and shaded, and it’s close proximity to Burlington make it a good choice for travelers, but because the road is steep and winding, it’s not suitable for RVs. Bathrooms are small and clean with hot showers. If you want to cool off in the summer, head to Kingsland Bay State Park on Lake Champlain, which is just a few miles away.
Guide
The grounds: This place looks like the place to be, great facilities (with real flush toilets near the beach), and great grassy sites which met of are in the shade! Very close to many different things (Montreal, Burlington, Lake Placid) and the beach is very clean and beautiful. There is a pump station for RVs but a lot of tent camping as well.
The Belt: This belt is great, I love croaky belts in general, they are colorful and very sturdy. The design is great and they keep the pants up or give a splash of color to my outfits (when I wear them a little higher up. The colors are so pretty with the blues and are interesting to look at. Love that there are no holes, so it will not rip overtime. 5 out of 5 for sure!
ScoutWe stayed 3 nights with our small RV. We booked a site with good privacy. There is a creek in the back, where most tents sites are. The staff is super friendly. The campsite is well maintained. Shower stall condition is great. It is bit pricy, but we’ll worth it.
Guide
We stayed two nights in early September 2018. Easily found with google maps. Was greeted by a friendly staff member and shown how to get to our site. Arrived in the pitch black but was easy to find out site. Tent site #10.
It was very quiet, everyone seems to be enjoying their own spot. You can see your neighbors but there is some room in between sites. Clean bathrooms and relatively clean showers. Out site hand a picnic table and fire ring with grate.
We were a very short walk to the beach, where you could swim. Perfect spot to practice some night photography with minimal light pollution.
Also had a fire going all night by the building attached to the bathrooms. They offered wood, ice and small things to buy if needed.
Definitely recommend staying here. Pricing would be the only slight negative, it is about average from what we have looked at. Wish we could have stayed longer.
Tent camping near Lake Elmore, Vermont, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the serene beauty of the Green Mountains. With a variety of campgrounds featuring unique amenities and activities, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Lake Elmore, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Lake Elmore, VT is Underhill State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Lake Elmore, VT?
TheDyrt.com has all 37 tent camping locations near Lake Elmore, VT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
