Near Morrisville, Vermont, tent camping opportunities extend from the Lamoille Valley to the western slopes of the Green Mountains, with elevations ranging from 600 to 3,000 feet. The region's numerous water bodies, including reservoirs and ponds, provide waterfront camping options where summer water temperatures reach 70°F by July. Camping season typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with peak foliage colors occurring between late September and early October.
What to do
Paddle to remote sites: At Green River Reservoir State Park, campers must paddle to reach their sites. As one camper notes, "I love this location because you have to paddle out to a site for camping. It's private, quiet, and really gives you that 'forest bathing' escape." The reservoir spans 653 acres with 19 miles of shoreline, and most sites require less than a mile of paddling from the boat launch.
Wildlife viewing: Bring binoculars for spotting local wildlife. According to a Green River Reservoir visitor, "Be sure to paddle out to the Beaver Meadow - we have seen moose there several times." At Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites, campers can observe shoreline wildlife during early morning hours from their tent sites.
Mountain hiking: From Underhill State Park, access direct trails to Mount Mansfield. A camper reports, "A short walk from the group campsite takes you straight to various (amazing!) hiking trails." The park serves as an ideal base camp for day hikes, with trailheads approximately 0.3 miles from the campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Tent campers appreciate the space between sites at many Morrisville-area campgrounds. A visitor to Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape and Tent Haven noted, "The small amount of camping space made the experience quite unique and private." The campground offers only 10 sites, ensuring a less crowded experience.
Waterfront access: At Waterbury Reservoir, campers enjoy direct water access. One reviewer explained, "These remote sites are so peaceful... It was about 30 minutes from the cotton brook launch to the site and was much more doable for all the trips we took bringing our gear in." Most water-access sites include a small beach or landing area for boats.
Night skies: Clear mountain nights offer excellent stargazing opportunities. An Underhill State Park visitor mentioned, "Totally beautiful, private spots, pit toilets and a night sky to die for!" Most campgrounds in the region have minimal light pollution, with best viewing conditions during new moon phases.
What you should know
Toilet facilities vary: Composting toilets are common at remote sites. At Indian Brook Reservoir, "There is a shared privy among the sites." A visitor to Underhill State Park noted they have "pit toilets" rather than flush facilities. At more primitive locations, campers should bring their own toilet paper.
Site access considerations: Many campsites require hiking or paddling. A visitor to Indian Brook Reservoir warned, "I mistakenly assumed they had drive up campsites. They do not. It was a 15 minute hike to the site, so pack light. If you have a kayak, you can transport your stuff over."
Wildlife precautions: Proper food storage is essential. A visitor to Camel's Hump State Park mentioned, "The area had a host who was there 24/7 and a shared area for eating and food storage (I guess Bear's are a problem there)." Campers should bring rope for hanging food or use provided storage facilities when available.
Tips for camping with families
Wheelbarrows available: Some walk-in sites offer equipment transport help. A family who stayed at Underhill State Park shared, "They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff, and the campsites are super clean and well organized." This makes accessing remote sites more manageable with children.
Swimming options: Look for gradual entry points for safer swimming. At Mount Philo State Park, a visitor recommended "Charlotte town beach for swimming ($10 for non-residents)" as a family-friendly option near the campground.
Tent platforms: Some sites feature raised platforms that keep tents dry. At Indian Brook Reservoir, "There is an extensive trail system that is easy to navigate. Nestled in the woods are several tent platforms that you can access by foot or by boat." These platforms provide more comfortable sleeping for children by keeping gear off potentially wet ground.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent camping areas near Morrisville aren't suitable for larger vehicles. At Mount Philo State Park, "because the road is steep and winding, it's not suitable for RVs." Small campervans under 20 feet may access some areas, but confirm road conditions before arrival.
Day-use alternatives: RVers often park at day-use areas and hike to viewpoints. At Mount Philo, "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." This allows RV travelers to experience the area without needing to find suitable overnight camping.
Combined camping options: Consider splitting your stay between tent and RV sites. Some camping parties set up tents at remote sites while keeping their RV at a more accessible campground with hookups in nearby towns like Stowe or Jeffersonville, which are within 30 minutes of Morrisville.
