Tent camping near North Troy, Vermont offers access to the Northern Forest Canoe Trail and proximity to Lake Memphremagog. Located at elevations ranging from 900-1,500 feet, this region experiences cooler summer nights with temperatures often dropping into the 50s even in July and August. Many tent sites in this area feature natural drainage contours that help during Vermont's typical summer thunderstorms.
What to do
Paddling exploration: Green River Reservoir State Park provides 653 acres of water and 19 miles of shoreline for paddling adventures. A camper at Green River Reservoir State Park Campground noted, "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."
Wildlife viewing: The wetlands near North Troy host diverse wildlife. At Green River Reservoir, visitors should "be sure to paddle out to the Beaver Meadow - we have seen moose there several times." Knight Island offers similar opportunities where "deer, turkey, fox and smaller animals can be seen throughout the island."
Hiking access: Many tent sites provide direct trail access. At Underhill State Park Campground, campers appreciate that it's "about a .3 mile hike to the main trail to climb the mountain." The camp's location makes it ideal for multiple hikes without relocating your basecamp.
What campers like
Site privacy: Tent campers consistently mention the separation between sites. At Burton Island State Park Campground, "the island is full of free range kids, and they're having a blast" because there are "no cars on the island. You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans."
Remote water access: Many campsites feature direct water access. One camper at Knight Island State Park Campground mentioned "every remote campsite is waterside, with fabulous access to amazing swimming, gorgeous sunsets, and fantastic hikes across the island."
Campfire cooking: Fire rings at most sites allow for traditional campfire cooking. At Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape, campers receive "clean water, fire wood and cooking rack are provided for your first night. There's extra fire wood for sale along with a sink to do dishes."
What you should know
Reservation timing: For peak summer months, book well in advance. Burton Island's "waterfront sites book very quickly (like 11 months in advance)," though primitive sites are often available closer to your arrival date.
Remote site preparation: Remote sites require careful planning for supplies. At Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape and Tent Haven, there are "many amenities such as wood, water and outhouse nearby" but you should still bring essentials.
Weather variability: Summer temperatures can fluctuate significantly. One Underhill State Park camper enjoyed "waking up to the sound of the stream down the embankment" but noted that extra layers are needed for cool nights.
Tips for camping with families
Wheelbarrow assistance: Some walk-in sites provide equipment transport help. Underhill State Park "provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff, and the campsites are super clean and well organized."
Island adventures: Car-free camping options create unique experiences for children. At Burton Island, "the island is full of free range kids, and they're having a blast" because "there are no cars all over the place."
Swimming options: Several sites offer swimming access with varying water conditions. At Serenity Field, you'll find "semi private tent only camping in a beautiful field" that's "literally feet away from kingdom trails" with water access nearby for cooling off.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent sites in the region don't accommodate RVs. Underhill State Park can handle small trailers in some areas, but a camper noted the advantage is that "it's the best of car camping - you get the feel of really being out in the woods, with your car a short distance away."
Water source planning: No water hookups means bringing adequate containers. Serenity Field offers "drinking water available and bike wash" but no dedicated RV facilities, requiring self-containment.
Alternative accommodations: When weather turns challenging, consider backup options. At Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape, one camper shared that "weather was not cooperative and my fiancé and I were able to rent one of the cabins for our second night."
