Best Tent Camping near Norwich, VT
The Appalachian Trail corridor near Norwich, Vermont offers several backcountry tent camping options for hikers seeking primitive experiences. Notable sites include Winturri Backcountry Shelter and Happy Hill Backcountry Shelter, both located along the AT in Vermont with dedicated tent camping areas surrounding the shelters. Across the Connecticut River in New Hampshire, Velvet Rocks Shelter and Moose Mountain Backcountry Shelter provide additional tent-only camping opportunities within a short distance of Norwich. These backcountry tent sites typically require a hike-in approach and serve primarily as overnight stops for section hikers and through-hikers on the Appalachian Trail.
Tent sites at these backcountry locations are typically set on natural forest surfaces with minimal site preparation. Most AT shelters feature a combination of tent pads and three-sided shelters, with privies available at most locations. Water sources vary significantly by season, with many campers reporting dry springs during late summer months. According to visitor reports, water reliability is best at Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter, which features a swimming hole downstream from the campsite. Bear boxes are available at some but not all sites, making proper food storage essential for tent campers. The carry-in, carry-out policy applies throughout the region, with no trash facilities available at any of these primitive tent camping areas.
In early fall, many tent campsites along the AT offer increased solitude as through-hiker traffic diminishes. One section hiker noted that Winturri Backcountry Shelter "had lots of tent camping spots with decent privacy" as you move away from the main shelter. Another camper observed that Happy Hill Backcountry Shelter features "a bunch of level tent camp sites around the shelter," making it suitable for groups. Tent platforms at some sites require free-standing tents, as traditional stake-down setups may not be possible. Most backcountry tent sites in the region lack views from the camping areas themselves, though nearby trail sections often provide scenic vistas. Winter access to these walk-in tent sites is extremely limited due to snow conditions and unplowed access roads.