Primitive tent camping near Plainfield, Vermont offers remote backcountry sites in a region with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with cooler nights in higher elevations. The Vermont camping season generally runs May through October, with most primitive sites requiring campers to carry in all supplies including drinking water.
What to do
Paddle to remote sites: At Green River Reservoir State Park, visitors must paddle between 0.5-2 miles to reach one of the 27 designated campsites. "We try and make our way north to Green River Reservoir every summer. It's a primitive park, perfect for paddling, wild camping, swimming, and watching wildlife," notes one camper. The reservoir spans 653 acres with 19 miles of shoreline.
Hike to mountain views: The trail network near Camel's Hump State Park offers access to one of Vermont's most recognizable peaks. "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," writes a reviewer. The designated primitive camping area sits about 1.5 miles into the hike.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple sites offer fishing access with varied catches. At Molly's Falls Pond, anglers can find rainbow trout, brown trout, northern pike, pickerel, smallmouth bass and yellow perch. Sites near streams and reservoirs typically allow fishing with proper Vermont licensing.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Underhill State Park earns praise for its secluded spots. "Very primitive and quiet campground. Great staff and campsites. No shower but one of the best weeks I had camping in a while," reports one visitor. Another adds: "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."
Wilderness immersion: Remote sites throughout the region create a genuine backcountry experience. At Waterbury Reservoir, the boat-in requirement creates natural seclusion. "The bathroom is a composting toilet that you'll share with fishing spiders the size of your hand, slam the lid before use! Also the spot where you set up tent at this site was on a slope, other sites might be better... still 10/10 will return."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to spot native Vermont wildlife. One camper at Green River Reservoir suggests: "Be sure to paddle out to the Beaver Meadow - we have seen moose there several times."
What you should know
Limited site availability: Many dispersed sites fill quickly during peak season. The Green Mountain National Forest FR25 sites often reach capacity by Friday afternoon in summer. One visitor notes: "We were here on a Friday & Saturday nights. Friday night had the whole place to ourselves. Saturday night all spots filled." Another camper observes there are "6 to 8 sites, approximately" along this forest road.
Variable site conditions: Terrain conditions can impact comfort at primitive sites. One Waterbury Reservoir camper warns: "The spot where you set up tent at this site was on a slope, others sites might be better." At Green Mountain FR25, another notes: "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out."
Campsite security: When tent camping near Plainfield, secure valuables appropriately. A FR25 camper warns: "Make sure to lock your valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Tips for camping with families
Wheelbarrow access: Underhill State Park offers a practical solution for family gear transport. "This is the best of car camping - you get the feel of really being out in the woods, with your car a short distance away. They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff, and the campsites are super clean and well organized."
Stream sites for children: Several campgrounds feature streams that provide natural entertainment for children. One Underhill visitor shared: "We stayed at campsite 6 and loved waking up to the sound of the stream down the embankment."
Camp host assistance: Some primitive areas maintain on-site staff. A Camel's Hump camper notes: "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)."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most primitive tent camping near Plainfield lacks RV accommodations. One exception at Little River State Park (connected to Waterbury Reservoir) notes: "Wide flat camp sites no hookups limited gen. use hours 8am/10am and 4pm/6pm. Rough road coming to campground. Very quiet. Site could hold big rig we have a 28ft 5th wheel plenty of room for 35/40."
