1 campground with availability next weekend
Backcountry tent camping options near Plymouth, Vermont primarily follow the Appalachian Trail corridor through the Green Mountains, offering hikers multiple shelter and tent site opportunities. The Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter provides both shelter accommodations and large, level tent areas with a nearby swimming hole. Michigan Brook Road in the Green Mountain National Forest offers primitive tent sites that provide drive-in access for those seeking easier vehicle access to tent camping.
Road conditions on forest service roads like Michigan Brook Road can vary significantly by season, with visitors noting high-clearance vehicles are recommended during muddy spring conditions and after rain. Most tent sites lack amenities, with no drinking water, electricity, or sanitary facilities available. According to a review on The Dyrt, "Michigan Brook Road is out of the way back country car/tent camping with no cell phone service or wifi connection." Many campsites feature established fire rings, though fire regulations vary seasonally based on drought conditions. Visitors should prepare to pack out all waste as most locations have no trash service.
Tent camping in this region provides direct access to the extensive trail networks of the Green Mountains. Areas along Michigan Brook offer riverside tent sites where campers can enjoy the sounds of flowing water. One visitor described the Last Light on Michigan Brook site as having "crystal clear waters with never ending mesmerizing relaxation." The Appalachian Trail shelters like Happy Hill feature both shelter space and multiple level tent sites surrounding them, providing backpackers with flexibility. Winter access becomes extremely limited, with many roads unplowed during snow season. Sites along rivers and brooks typically fill quickly on summer weekends, with more secluded tent spots available to those willing to hike further from parking areas or main forest roads.
"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."
"I stayed at this campsite located at the end of upper Michigan road. It is winter and there is a lot of snow. The main road to the parking lot is plowed and sanded."
"Few nice ones near the creek. I stayed at one on top of a lots of space at mine."
"There's a big 3-wall cabin with room for at least 12, several tent platforms, and there's even a composting privy (#2 only)!!"
from $5 / night
"Drive in about a mile after the parking lot!! Can use car to get in! There’s 3 camping spots. 1 before the bridge and 2 after the bridge!"
"Note: This is a back country shelter on the Appalachian trail that doesn't have consistent water. I stopped here on a section hike of the Appalachian trail."
"Note this is a back country campsite that is 100% hike in, with no guaranteed water. I tent camped here in August while doing a section hike of the Appalachian Trail. "
"All had fire pits ours had a picnic table. And was right next to the creek. Would highly recommend if you want to get away from city lights. All sites are not maintained."
"Beautiful stream close by."
"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."
ScoutIt was dark. I arrived after 7p. There were 3 rv camps already going on. All 3 had camp fires. Many fire rings for many groups. No hassles at all. It's off the beaten path but worth it. The first 4 camp sites were open. Made a fire. Ate some food. I got a good night sleep. Nothing ate me or attacked me so that's 5 star in my book.
ScoutThe recreation hall was a nice surprise. We had some rainy weather one afternoon and the kids were able to play games while we relaxed for a bit. Saved the day honestly😂
ScoutWe came up looking for a campground where we could actually spend a few days without constantly driving somewhere. Ended up fishing, swimming, walking along the river and exploring the area. The campground gave us plenty to do, but it was also nice having the option to just sit at the campsite and do nothing. Would definitley come back.
ScoutWe have a big RV and had no trouble getting settled in. Having the full hookups made things super easy, especially for a longer stay.
ScoutNothing beats sitting by the river after a long day of exploring. We visited a few places around the Lake Sunapee area and this was a really convenient home base.
GuideThere was a few sites 5-6 we didn’t get to the eastern loop. But the sites we saw were very secluded. All had fire pits ours had a picnic table. And was right next to the creek. Would highly recommend if you want to get away from city lights. All sites are not maintained. We had a small off road camper it was easy In and out some sites could be hard with larger pull behinds. Some sites might need 4wd to get in and out we had lots of mud after a lot of rain.
ScoutWe brought the kids and they found plenty to do. Between the pool, river and recreation area, they were pretty much entertained the entire trip.
ScoutWe rented a cabin and honestly it was perfect for what we needed. Spent the days exploring around Lake Sunapee and came back here to relax at night.
GuideNice campground near Killington, VT. Water and dump station. Not for big rigs we have a 21 ft TT. Things were tight but doable. One of the few Vermont state campgrounds that is still open. Most close from second Monday in October until Memorial Day.
Tent camping near Plymouth, Vermont centers around the Green Mountain National Forest, where elevations range between 900-2,000 feet. Forest service roads provide access to numerous primitive sites, though spring mud season typically affects accessibility from March through mid-May. Overnight temperatures can drop into the 40s even during summer months, requiring proper insulation regardless of season.
Swim in natural pools: At Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters, visitors find exceptional swimming opportunities. "The pond is surprisingly warm for its altitude and it's home to two Common Loons," notes Meredith C., who also mentions a "huge jumping rock on the far side of the pond."
Explore forest service roads: Michigan Brook Road offers multiple dispersed campsites along its length. "Drive in about a mile after the parking lot!! Can use car to get in! There's 3 camping spots. 1 before the bridge and 2 after the bridge!" explains TRUCKER C., providing specific navigation advice for first-time visitors.
Access the Appalachian Trail: Thistle Hill Backcountry Shelter on the AT serves as a strategic access point. Justin P. describes it as "a peaceful place to stop in the woods" with "a one-story standard AT shelter with a fire ring and a bench for seating."
Double-decker shelter access: Happy Hill Backcountry Shelter offers unique sleeping arrangements. "The shelter had a ground floor and a loft but each floor could maybe fit 4-5 people comfortably," explains Justin P., who appreciates how "folks could decide to sleep up there while others were down below, either cooking, arriving, or departing."
Backcountry privacy: The remote nature of sites appeals to many visitors. "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!" shares Thomas and James S. about the Last Light on Michigan Brook location.
Affordability: Most sites in the Green Mountain National Forest are free, while managed shelters have minimal fees. At Little Rock Pond, Meredith C. notes the site "costs only $5 per person per night" while offering substantial amenities including "a big 3-wall cabin with room for at least 12, several tent platforms" and "a composting privy."
Water availability varies: Many campers encounter seasonal water limitations. Justin P. mentions that at Winturri Backcountry Shelter, "Water was running when I was there in mid-August from a spring close to the shelter," but notes this isn't guaranteed year-round.
Road conditions change seasonally: Higher clearance vehicles become necessary during wet periods. "Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" warns Thomas and James S. about Michigan Brook Road.
Winter considerations: Winter camping requires additional planning. Keegz M. shares from experience: "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. I attempted to bring my car and was stuck overnight."
Communication limitations: Cell service is nonexistent in many camping areas. Keegz M. emphasizes that Michigan Brook Road "DOES NOT PROVIDE CELL PHONE SERVICE OR WIFI CONNECTION," but notes that "if you walk to the end of upper Michigan Brook road you will have cell phone service."
Look for level tent areas: Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter provides comfortable terrain for family camping. Justin P. points out "there were a few large tent areas where multiple tents could fit and which looked quite level," making setup easier for groups with children.
Consider drive-in accessibility: Families with young children may prefer sites closer to parking. Maggie F. recommends Michigan Brook: "We camped near the beginning of the road but would recommend driving down if you can because you can camp next to the river after you cross the bridge."
Research bathroom facilities: Private facilities vary significantly between sites. At Stony Brook, Justin P. notes "The privvy looked brand new and was more spacious than most on the trail," which can make a significant difference for families with young children.
Pack adequate water: With unreliable water sources, families should bring extra supplies. For Little Rock Pond, Meredith C. mentions "Water is available at a creek and a spring nearby," but during dry periods, these sources may diminish.
Check road clearance first: Michigan Brook Road Camping requires careful vehicle assessment. "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" cautions Thomas and James S.
Scout potential sites before committing: Longer vehicles require advance planning. Goose10091203 advises: "I found most of the spots to be on the road before the GPS marker. Few nice ones near the creek. I stayed at one on top of a hill—lots of space at mine."
Consider seasonal limitations: Winter RV camping presents significant challenges. Keegz M. learned this firsthand: "I attempted to bring my car and was stuck overnight but was able to dig myself out the next morning," underscoring the importance of proper vehicle selection and winter equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Plymouth, VT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Plymouth, VT is Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter on the AT in Vermont — Appalachian National Scenic Trail with a 4-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Plymouth, VT?
TheDyrt.com has all 41 tent camping locations near Plymouth, VT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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