Tent camping near Peacham, Vermont offers primitive backcountry experiences surrounded by the northern Green Mountains at elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet. The region receives approximately 43 inches of annual precipitation with summer temperatures averaging 65-80°F during peak camping season. Sites are typically situated near small lakes, ponds, and streams that support diverse fish populations including rainbow trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass.
What to do
Paddle accessible camping: Green River Reservoir State Park Campground provides remote tent sites reachable only by canoe or kayak. "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," notes one visitor at Green River Reservoir State Park Campground.
Hiking from campsites: Multiple trails connect directly from established tent areas to nearby peaks and ridgelines. At Guyot Shelter, "We got to the site, claimed our platform and hiked over to West Bond to catch a beautiful sunset. Bear box located at a communal 'cooking area' and cold spring water located at the site," reports one camper at Guyot Shelter.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings provide opportunities for wildlife viewing from camp. "There is a lot of beautiful wildlife, and they do an amazing job at preserving the sites. If you want a campsite to really get away and enjoy beautiful surroundings, this is it," explains a visitor describing their experience at Green River Reservoir.
What campers like
Accessible remoteness: Tent sites balance solitude with reasonable 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 a camper at Serenity Field.
Platform camping: Many backcountry sites feature wooden platforms that keep tents elevated from wet ground. "There are approx 10 platform sites. Some are very isolated and some with great views. Privy is a bit of a walk. And the eating area is very small. 3 bear boxes. Great water source right near the eating area," notes one camper at Guyot Shelter.
Small-scale sites: Private campgrounds maintain limited tent capacity for quieter experiences. Socks Family Farm offers just 2 tent sites, while Waterfall & Brook Camping maintains 3 sites, limiting crowds even during peak season. Molly's Falls Pond State Park keeps its 5 unofficial remote sites available on a first-come basis.
What you should know
Water access considerations: Many primitive sites require water treatment. "There is a small stream to pump water from but it is seasonal. I highly suggest a sunrise peak if you have the energy to get up early!" explains a camper at Kinsman Pond Shelter.
Seasonal limitations: Most tent campgrounds operate from late May through mid-October. Green River Reservoir operates from "May 19 to Columbus Day weekend" while Molly's Falls Pond has a shorter season from "Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend."
Bear safety protocols: Bear activity requires proper food storage at all sites. "Bear box located at a communal cooking area and cold spring water located at the site. Composting outhouse was surprisingly very clean!" notes a visitor at a backcountry shelter, highlighting the infrastructure available even at remote locations.
Tips for camping with families
Boat-in camping intro: Green River Reservoir provides an ideal introduction to remote camping with children. "Most sites are within a mile of the boat launch, a few require closer to a 2-mile paddle. Each campsite includes a fire pit and access to an outhouse," explains a family who visits regularly at Garfield Ridge Campsite.
Site selection: Choose tent sites with level ground and proximity to facilities when camping with children. "Sites are a bit variable in terms of privacy and tent space. Some platforms have somewhat of a view of far away mountain tops," notes a camper describing backcountry accommodations.
Water recreation: Several camping areas offer swimming access directly from tent sites. At Molly's Falls Pond State Park, the "411-acre lake is largely undeveloped and is an excellent spot for swimming, boating and fishing. Anglers will find a variety of fish including rainbow trout, brown trout, northern pike, pickerel, smallmouth bass and yellow perch."
Tips from RVers
Tent-only regions: The Peacham region primarily supports tent camping rather than RV access. "This is a primitive park, perfect for paddling, wild camping, swimming, and watching wildlife. The reservoir is 653 acres with 19 miles of shoreline," explains a visitor at Dugout Hideaway @ Granny Clark Brook.
Base camp alternatives: RV travelers can establish base camps at developed campgrounds outside Peacham, then day trip to hiking and tent camping areas. "Amazing spot. Pretty remote and all the better for it," notes a visitor describing the contrast between developed and backcountry camping areas.
Seasonal access: Forest roads accessing tent sites often become impassable for larger vehicles after rain or early snowfall. "The hike in isn't easy especially considering you'll need to carry all your gear in to stay," explains one camper, highlighting why many sites remain tent-only.
