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Best Tent Camping near Proctor, VT

693 Reviews

The Green Mountain National Forest surrounding Proctor, Vermont offers several primitive tent camping options, including Michigan Brook Road Camping and dispersed sites along Forest Road 25. These backcountry tent areas provide access to Vermont's scenic mountains and forests, with most sites situated along streams or brooks that offer natural soundscapes and water access.

Tent campsites throughout the region typically feature established fire rings but minimal other amenities. Sites may be set on uneven terrain with limited grading, particularly at Michigan Brook where the dirt access road becomes challenging during spring thaw or after heavy rains. According to one visitor, "There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience." Most dispersed camping areas lack facilities entirely, requiring campers to pack in water and pack out all waste. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many of the more remote tent sites, especially those beyond parking areas that require short walks to reach secluded spots.

Areas farther from main roads provide deeper seclusion for tent campers seeking quiet experiences. The Patterson Brookside camp offers walk-in tent sites along a river with varying levels of privacy between spots. One camper noted that "the dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations." Tent campers frequently use these zones as bases for day hiking or fishing, with the sound of flowing water enhancing the camping experience. Winter access becomes limited or impossible at most sites due to snow accumulation, with Michigan Brook Road and similar forest roads typically unplowed during winter months. Campers should be aware that some areas have experienced overuse issues, with Forest Service signs occasionally posted requesting visitors to practice proper waste disposal and Leave No Trace principles.

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Best Tent Sites Near Proctor, Vermont (38)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Proctor, VT

65 Photos of 38 Proctor Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Proctor, VT

693 Reviews of 38 Proctor Campgrounds

  • Justin P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2022

    Velvet Rocks Shelter Backcountry Campground on the AT — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Standard AT back country shelter on the limited site of tent camping

    Note this is a back country shelter along the Appalachian Trail, so it is 100% long hike in with no guaranteed water and a basic privvy.

    I tented along here for a night during a section hike of the AT from Lyme into Vermont.

    The shelter was the basic AT 3-sided wood structure and was generally in good shape.

    The water source here was dry during my trip which was expected during the drought (August 2022).

    The tent camping here was ok, with some slightly slanted spots around the main shelter area.

    There was no real view from the shelter.  There was also a basic privvy available.

    This was a decent shelter to stop at along the AT, but I would not consider it a weekend destination.

    There was no bear box onsite.

  • Justin P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2022

    Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter on the AT in Vermont — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Basic AT shelter with lots of tent camping and swimming hole nearby

    Note: This is a hike in back country shelter with unreliable water and a pit bathroom.

    I tented here on a section hike of the AT. The shelter was a fairly basic 8ish person shelter, but this stop stood out because of a brand new privvy, large tenting areas, and a swimming hole and consistent water just a bit further down the trail (when heading northbound).

    For camping, there were a few large tent areas where multiple tents could fit and which looked quite level.

    The privvy looked brand new and was more spacious than most on the trail.

    There was no water on the shelter, but there was plenty of water at Stony Brook / Mink Brook a bit further northbound. I only explored a bit offtrail down the brook but found a decent swimming hole (could just barely submerge myself) to clean off a bit.

    There was also a bear box here, which I hadn't seen at other shelters along the AT in Vermont (heading southbound).

    Although the shelter was fairly basic, I would keep this on my list as a go-to place to stop if I was planning to hike in the area.

  • Kate K.
    Aug. 1, 2019

    Camel's Hump State Park — Camels Hump State Park

    Amazing Hike! Great Campground

    This is a short and sweet hike to one of the higher points in Vermont. It is a beautiful scenic (somewhat strenuous) hike to the summit. The views are pretty epic though. The designated primitive camping area is about 1.5 miles into the hike. If I recall it had about 10-12 sites. 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). We hiked all day, so we didn’t have a fire and to be honest I can’t remember if there was a shared spot for them or not. Either way, this hike was gorgeous and so was the camping. I would love to go back!

  • J
    Sep. 24, 2018

    Lazy Lions Campground

    Adults only, comfortable but lacking excursions

    Lazy Lions is a comfortable campground with an adults-only policy. Having spent time in plenty of campgrounds with screaming or unwinded children, I could see this as a positive draw for the RV'ing crowd. I think we were the only tent campers the night we stayed.

    Our tent site was level and on comfy plush grass, well maintained and either a beautiful addition of two (plastic) adirondack chairs at our fire pit with grill. This was especially welcome because we hadn't really planned on cooking but when we saw the great fire set up not only did we save time and energy by not having to take out (and put away!) our camping chairs, I was able to turn our chips and salsa into nachos using some amazing Vermont cheese we'd picked up earlier. My boyfriend has declared this was his favorite camping meal ever so thanks Lazy Lions for the unexpected awesomeness.

    Our check in was smoothe, there was plenty of room at this campground, perhaps due to the fact that there isn't too much to do other than set up and sleep. It did have a pool.

    On check in we found the front desk (owner?) to be less than warm, and at $7 to firewood a little pricey. We were warned to be careful with our food because of "critters" and when I asked what kind of critters the man responded, "all of them". Less than helpful. In hindsight we believe we found bear scat on our site.

    We slept well, bathroom facilities were clean and well stocked. Showers, which we did not use, we $0.25 for four minutes. There was a microwave and wash sink as well for dishes, we didn't use either.

    We met lovely people and had a fine night, there was just nothing particularly special about the place

  • Justin P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2022

    Gifford Woods State Park Campground

    Quiet and well maintained campground

    I tent camped here before doing a section hike of the Appalachian Trail and it was one of the best campgrounds I’ve stayed at before.

    The sites have some privacy and woods in between, though the tent sites vs. shelters and cabins were mostly closer to the access road. All sites were super clean and had a picnic table and fire ring. Most sites had a built in cooking fire structure (vs. a fire ring) they looked great for camp cooking, though my site (T01) seemed to be the only without it.

    The facilities were well-maintained, there were water spigots everywhere, and though I didn’t get a chance to enjoy, there were lots of activities right there (volleyball lawn, the AT running right through the campground, mountain bike trails).

    I didn’t stay in them, but the cabins and lean-tos looked great for group or family options.

    Kent Pond was also just across the road for water activities, and I saw at least one fly fisher out.

    Killington was also right nearby for restaurants and other needs.

    I will definitely be coming back to explore more!

  • Lauren S.
    Jul. 27, 2020

    Moosalamoo Campground

    Hidden Gem

    Tucked down a gravel road in the Green Mountain National Forest is this hidden treasure. Large sites, friendly campground host, the moosalamoo trailhead right next to campground. The trail connects to many others. You will pass several trailheads on your way up to the campground. Many of the sites are reservable, others are first come first serve. You will find a pay station as you enter the campsite. The camp host is at site 1. Surprisingly clean vault toilets. No showers. There are dumpsters on the way out for trash and recycling. I saw bear storage lockers but I did not use them as I had my bear keg with me. Behind the parking spur at the site there is gravel with picnic table and fire pit. Beyond that in the trees was a spot for the tent. I didn’t experience many bugs, no mosquitoes, what I saw the most of were caterpillars. But If you needed bug spray or forgot anything back in town a few miles Ripton grocery has you covered.

  • M.A.D. P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 3, 2022

    Greendale Campground

    Greendale campground, Weston Vt.

    Greendale Campground is a small remote campground located along Greendale Brook in Weston, VT.

    There are 11 campsites available in a wooded setting. Each site has a picnic table, a fire ring with a grill, and a parking spur. Most sites can accommodate small campers as well as tents. There is also a vault toilet.

    The campground offers easy access to the Greendale Loop, a 4.0 mile hike through a mixed forest of northern hardwood and conifer trees with long stretches bordering scenic streams. This loop includes approximately 2 miles of walking along town maintained roads open to vehicular traffic.

    This site is not maintained for winter use. Deep snow often covers amenities at this site December – mid April. The nearest plowed parking area to the campground in the winter is approximately one mile away and access is via skis or snowshoes. My wife and I car camped in July and there were very few campers. Many sites are beside Greendale Brook. The water is clean, refreshing and soothing. Especially soothing while sitting by the campfire.

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Lazy Lions Campground

    Nice quiet place

    Nice campground with plenty of shade, well maintained and decent restrooms. The showers are ok and cost a quarter for 4 minutes. Our site was level and along with a picnic table, they also provide two Adirondack chairs (plastic) and a fire ring.

  • Tara S.
    Oct. 11, 2017

    Grout Pond Campground — Green Mountain & Finger Lakes National Forests

    Best Fall Camping Ever!

    We just returned from two nights at Grout Pond. We were lucky to have 70 degree days and 50 degree nights in October. We were the only campers along the waterfront, but there were a few car campers in the sites near the road. We have camped at Grout Pond a few times in the summer, and while it’s always beautiful, it’s just too busy in July and August. Early October is just about perfect - no bugs, no people, and fantastic views all around.

    The campground is maintained by the National Forest Service, and for many years the sites were free. In 2018, the cost will be significantly higher than free - $16 per night with a limit of 14 consecutive days. There are about 18 sites in total. 7 near the road for car camping or RVs, 5 that are hike-in (the farthest is about a mile from the parking lot), and 6 waterfront sites that you can either hike or paddle to. We really love site #2 for the awesome views and proximity to the toilet, but #11 is bigger and probably the most private of all the sites.

    If you’re paddling in, you can unload all your stuff in the day-use area, and then park your car in the lot. It’s an easy 5-minute paddle to most of the sites. There are lots of well-marked trails. The only water is in the day-use area, so I recommend bringing a filter so you can drink right from the lake. All tents must be set up on tenting platforms, so you’ll need a smallish tent. Sites 10 and 11 have two platforms.  

    After camping here in July and October, I would never camp here in the summer again - come in the fall - you won’t be disappointed!

Guide to Proctor

Dispersed camping in the Green Mountain National Forest near Proctor, Vermont offers primitive tent sites within the surrounding forested mountains. The region contains several established fire rings along forest roads and waterways with variable terrain and occasional seasonal closures. Most sites require campers to be self-sufficient with supplies including water and waste management tools.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: The streams near Michigan Brook Road Camping provide good fishing spots with natural pools. "Nice little spots to hangout all day. Lots to see, and explore," notes camper Marcus about the area's recreational options.

Winter exploration: For those prepared for deep snow and challenging conditions, some areas maintain limited winter access. "The main road to the parking lot is plowed and sanded. However if you would like to continue down the service road during winter months I would highly recommend snowshoes or a snowmobile," advises Keegz M. about Michigan Brook Road in winter.

Swimming: The natural water features throughout the region offer cooling options during summer months. At Little Rock Pond Group Camp, "The pond is surprisingly warm for its altitude and it's home to two Common Loons. There's a huge jumping rock on the far side of the pond," according to Meredith C.

What campers like

Riverside camping: The sound of running water enhances the camping experience at multiple locations. At Patterson Brookside camp, "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road. Be sure to camp at spots with established fire rings!" advises Thomas and James S.

Affordability: Most dispersed sites in the Green Mountain National Forest are free, while established shelters may have minimal fees. At Little Rock Pond, one camper notes, "Operated by the Green Mountain Club caretaker who lives onsite, this campsite costs only $5 per person per night."

Isolation: Many campers appreciate the lack of connectivity. "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in," explains Miccal M. about Patterson Brookside camp, highlighting the true backcountry experience.

What you should know

Vehicle requirements: Forest roads accessing tent campsites near Proctor, Vermont can be challenging. "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" warns Thomas and James S. about Michigan Brook Road.

Seasonal closures: Many forest roads become inaccessible during winter. "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF," notes Miccal M. regarding Patterson Brookside camp.

Overuse concerns: Increased visitation has led to management challenges at several sites. At Green Mountain National Forest FR25, a reviewer observed "a NFS sign along FR-25 posted asking people to clean up after themselves (litter and human waste) as there'd been complaints to the extent that they were considering closing the sites if people didn't do better."

Tips for camping with families

Site selection: Choose locations with established facilities for easier family camping. Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter offers "brand new privvy, large tenting areas, and a swimming hole and consistent water just a bit further down the trail," according to Justin P.

Security considerations: Take precautions with valuables at remote sites. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 warns, "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."

Water access: Sites near streams offer both recreation and practical benefits for families. "Gorgeous rock river," notes Thomas and James S. about Patterson Brookside camp, though families should verify water conditions before arrival.

Tips from RVers

Road width limitations: Several forest roads have sections too narrow for larger vehicles. At Patterson Brookside camp, "The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations, so be aware of oncoming traffic," notes Miccal M.

Camping spots: Last light on Michigan Brook provides specific guidance for site location: "The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"

Seasonal mud consideration: Spring thaw creates challenging conditions on forest roads. One camper recommends, "Beware that in Spring the road gets muddy and quite rutted, I would not recommend driving down there with a car that is low to the ground," when accessing the Michigan Brook area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Proctor, VT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Proctor, VT is Michigan Brook Road Camping - Green Mtn Ntnl Forest with a 5-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Proctor, VT?

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