Green Mountain National Forest offers most of the tent camping opportunities near Manchester Center, Vermont. The forest encompasses over 400,000 acres with camping sites ranging from 1,000 to 3,800 feet in elevation. Winter conditions can persist at higher elevations until late May, with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly even in summer months. Access roads to many primitive sites become muddy during spring thaw, requiring vehicles with adequate clearance.
What to do
Paddle on mountain ponds: Little Rock Pond offers surprisingly warm waters for swimming during summer months. According to one camper at Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters, "There's a huge jumping rock on the far side of the pond" that provides recreation for more adventurous visitors.
Hike winter trails: Winter camping opportunities exist for properly equipped visitors. A visitor to Stratton Pond Shelter 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!"
Observe wildlife: The forest provides habitat for various wildlife species. At Seth Warner Shelter, campers are advised about wildlife precautions: "Hang your food! Watch for bears and coons," notes a visitor who stayed during a Long Trail hike.
What campers like
Trail access: Many camping areas serve as connection points to major trail systems. A Seth Warner Shelter reviewer noted it's "0.2 miles off the LT/AT and sleeps 6-7 people," making it convenient for through-hikers needing shelter.
Clean facilities: Newer privately-owned campgrounds often maintain well-kept amenities. A visitor to Maple Ridge Farm reported, "Toilet and shower were very clean. Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites."
Transportation assistance: Some private campgrounds provide services to help with gear transport. Maple Ridge Farm visitors mentioned, "They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot," reducing the challenge of carrying equipment to walk-in sites.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some established campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Red Mill Brook campground near Woodford has been reported as "Closed" by recent visitors attempting to camp there.
Reservation policies: Last-minute planners may face challenges with reservation requirements. One camper at Zoar Outdoor mentioned being unable to extend their stay due to "a 12 hour advance policy," despite available sites.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary significantly between sites. While most primitive sites in national forest areas allow fires in established rings, some private campgrounds prohibit them entirely. A Zoar Outdoor visitor noted, "They don't allow fires at the campsites though which is annoying."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: Families often prefer campgrounds with amenities rather than dispersed sites. At Long Island Group — Lake George Islands, one visitor shared, "Renting a boat and taking it on an adventure towards an island was something new," though they cautioned about uneven terrain.
Consider raccoon activity: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation. A Long Island camper warned, "We were literally bombarded with a group of raccoons each night. It was bad," suggesting secure food storage is essential.
Look for indoor spaces: Facilities with common areas provide alternatives during inclement weather. A visitor to Maple Ridge Farm appreciated that "They have a common room that has games and eggs for sale," offering entertainment options beyond outdoor activities.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: The Manchester Center area has few dedicated RV facilities. Most camping near town is primitive, requiring self-contained units or tent camping. Larger RVs will find challenges navigating forest roads leading to dispersed sites.
Consider private land options: Some farms and private properties offer camping with more amenities than forest sites. A visitor to NV Farms noted their diverse accommodation options including cabins and glamping alternatives for those wanting more comfort than traditional tent camping.
