Remote tent camping opportunities abound throughout Vermont's Northeast Kingdom near Orleans. The region sits at elevations ranging from 720 to over 2,000 feet with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F days and 55-65°F nights. Unlike many tent camping destinations, the Orleans area features several boat-access-only sites where paddlers can camp directly on shorelines with minimal facilities and maximum solitude.
What to do
Paddle to pristine campsites: Green River Reservoir State Park offers 27 remote sites accessible only by paddle craft. "It's a primitive park, perfect for paddling, wild camping, swimming, and watching wildlife. The reservoir is 653 acres with 19 miles of shoreline," notes camper Tara S. Most sites require under a mile of paddling from the launch point.
Hike from waterfront camping: Tent campers can explore Vermont's landscape from strategically positioned sites. "We started a multi day canoeing trip from this spot. While close to the road, it's not highly trafficked and the road noise is almost non-existent which was a nice surprise," shares Sarah C. about Maine Railroad Trestle, noting the "really nice rocky beach with easy access for loading and unloading."
Mountain biking from base camp: Tent sites around Kingdom Trails provide direct trail access. "Semi private tent only camping in a beautiful field! Can pull your car right up to the site. Super quiet and secluded. Literally feet away from kingdom trails," reports Matt H. about Serenity Field, where drinking water and bike wash stations are available near campsites.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the separation between tent sites in the Orleans area. At Underhill State Park, "Camp spots were far enough away from one another, trees helped with privacy, and the tent site had a great area to setup the tent," according to Bojangles R., who found it "Easily one of the best camp sites I've stayed at."
Waterfront access: Direct shoreline camping provides both scenery and convenience. At Lyman Falls State Park, "The riverbank is a great spot to fish from and enjoy the afternoon sun. The top site is well maintained and the lower site could use a little work," notes a return visitor. Multiple campsites feature riverfront or reservoir access for fishing, swimming, and paddling.
Quiet camping atmosphere: The Orleans area offers genuinely quiet camping experiences. "This is one of those must-visit destinations. There's a million reasons to love camping here," writes Tara S. about Burton Island State Park, noting that "There are no cars on the island. You have to paddle yourself out or take the VT State Park passenger ferry from St. Albans."
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Many prime tent sites require extra effort. "We spent the night at this beautiful campsite with a magnificent view of Mount Mansfield. The small amount of camping space made the experience quite unique and private," explains Émylie B. about Black Creek Maple's Nature Escape, which offers clean water and firewood for the first night.
Seasonal availability: Most tent sites operate between late May and early October. Burton Island State Park runs "from Memorial Day Weekend through the Tuesday morning after Labor Day," while Molly's Falls Pond State Park's five remote hike-in campsites are available "Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend."
Reservation requirements: Booking policies vary significantly by location. For example, M.A.D. P. notes that Molly's Falls Pond offers "5 unofficial, remote campsites at the park. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis." Meanwhile, many Green River Reservoir sites book months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection tips: Choose locations based on specific family needs. Burton Island has "a day area with a beach as well as many places around the island to swim. Just wear water shoes since it is mainly a rocky coast," advises Doris B., who appreciated the "kind, helpful, and professional staff."
Gear transport solutions: Many tent sites require carrying equipment from parking areas. At Underhill State Park, "They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff, and the campsites are super clean and well organized," according to Ali T., who adds "We stayed at campsite 6 and loved waking up to the sound of the stream down the embankment."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can enjoy nature observation directly from campsites. One camper describes Lyman Falls as "a nice spot if you are looking for a quiet place along the Connecticut River," with "three sites with nice large pines offering ample shade" where you can spot wildlife along the riverbank.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The best tent camping near Orleans, Vermont largely caters to tent campers rather than RVs. Few RV-specific amenities exist at most sites, with reviewers noting the primitive nature of facilities. Underhill State Park technically accommodates RVs but offers "Very primitive and quiet campground. Great staff and campsites. No shower but one of the best weeks I had camping in a while," according to Michael V.
