Tent camping near Manchester, Vermont provides access to diverse backcountry experiences within the Green Mountain National Forest. Several hike-in campsites require a 2-6 mile trek from trailheads, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet. Water sources remain limited at most locations, particularly during late summer when seasonal creeks may run dry.
What to do
Paddle at nearby lakes: Little Rock Pond offers swimming opportunities with surprisingly warm water despite its elevation. According to a camper, "The pond is surprisingly warm for its altitude and it's home to two Common Loons. Water is available at a creek and a spring nearby. There's a huge jumping rock on the far side of the pond."
Winter camping adventures: The Stratton Pond Shelter area remains accessible year-round with proper equipment. One winter camper shared: "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! The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter."
Long Trail hiking access: Seth Warner Shelter provides a strategic stopping point for backpackers tackling Vermont's signature trail. A hiker noted: "While hiking the Long trail I stopped at the seth warner shelter for one night. Its .2 miles off the LT/AT and sleeps 6-7 people. There is a fire pit. The long trail is a very wet nasty trail but it can be dry so be careful having a fire."
What campers like
Affordability: Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters offers budget-friendly accommodations. As one camper mentioned, "Operated by the Green Mountain Club caretaker who lives onsite, this campsite costs only $5 per person per 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)!!"
Trail connections: The region's primitive camping areas serve as hubs for multiple trail systems. At Stratton Pond Shelter, campers appreciate the location advantages: "There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter. The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail."
Privacy between sites: Newer campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. One camper at Maple Ridge Farm noted: "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
Seasonal limitations: Some campgrounds have limited operating seasons or may close unexpectedly. A visitor to Red Mill Brook simply reported it as "Closed," highlighting the importance of checking current status before planning a trip.
Wildlife precautions: Food storage requirements are essential throughout the region. At Seth Warner Shelter, campers are reminded to "Hang your food! Watch for bears and coons."
Booking requirements: Some private campgrounds have specific reservation policies. A frustrated camper at Zoar Outdoor noted: "I'm writing this mid-October from western MA. In between homes and looked forward to staying another night, but can not because of a 12 hour advance policy."
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options: Seth Warner Shelter provides alternatives if the main structure is full. A visitor explained, "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 for either. (Hopefully you brought one of the two)."
Family-friendly amenities: Some private campgrounds provide additional comforts. A visitor to Maple Ridge Farm mentioned: "They have a common room that has games and eggs for sale. Toilet and shower were very clean."
Activity packages: Combining camping with guided adventures works well for families. At Zoar Outdoor, a visitor reported: "Overall had a wonderful experience at zoar campsite in charlemont ma. Staff was awesome, went out of their way to take care of our group from camping to rafting."
Tips from RVers
Island RV options: For those seeking unusual RV experiences, Long Island Group — Lake George Islands provides boat-in access for certain RVs. A visitor shared: "Worth a trip from just about anywhere. Absolutely beautiful and you can't beat camping on an island."
Site conditions: RV campers should research ground conditions carefully. One camper at Long Island noted: "There were no leveled space whatsoever (except for one platform per site...but where would a second tent go? On the horrible ground beside it."
Pack-in requirements: Most tent camping sites near Manchester require carrying all supplies. A Stratton Pond visitor explained the shelter "is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter" which applies to all seasons with varying difficulty.
