The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Tent Camping near Poultney, VT

708 Reviews

Tent campers exploring the Green Mountain region near Poultney, Vermont can find several primitive camping areas in the surrounding national forest lands. Michigan Brook and Last Light on Michigan Brook offer free tent camping within Green Mountain National Forest, with sites positioned along creeks and forest access roads approximately 15 miles from Poultney.

Access roads to these primitive tent campsites often become rutted and muddy during spring thaws, with high-clearance vehicles recommended for reaching more remote locations. Most sites feature established fire rings but lack amenities like drinking water, showers, or trash service. A review mentioned that Michigan Brook Road "goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised." Campers must pack in all supplies and practice proper waste disposal, as most locations have no toilets except for backcountry shelters like Stony Brook on the Appalachian Trail, which has pit toilets.

Primitive tent areas in this region provide excellent access to hiking trails and water features. Several tent sites along Michigan Brook offer streamside camping with natural swimming holes during summer months. A camper noted that Michigan Brook provides "nice little spots to hangout all day. Lots to see, and explore." Fall brings vibrant foliage and fewer crowds at most tent campgrounds, though winter access becomes limited when forest service roads close due to snow. For hikers, backcountry options include Little Rock Pond Group Camp, which provides tent platforms, a three-walled shelter, and access to swimming in the pond. Cell service is extremely limited throughout most primitive camping areas, requiring advance planning for safety and communications.

Map showing campgrounds near Poultney, VermontExplore the Map

Best Tent Sites Near Poultney, Vermont (35)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 35 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Poultney Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Tent Camping Photos near Poultney, VT

43 Photos of 35 Poultney Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Poultney, VT

708 Reviews of 35 Poultney Campgrounds

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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!

  • Miccal M.
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road

    This is a wonderful place to camp

    There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience.  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.  Some of the sites are drive in, some are walk in, but all are primitive. 

    There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area.  Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in.

    This area is being heavily use and some spots are being shut down from abuse, please be aware that you have a lot of impact, and that impact can be positive or negative. Choose Positive!

    This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF

  • Jessica C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Chittenden Brook Campground

    Great site

    This was a great site that feels secluded but isn’t. There’s quite a bit of space between each site so you can’t really see your neighbors which is excellent. The vault toilets were surprisingly clean besides the expected smell/flies. No running water or electricity. No cell service a few miles leading up the site, so download your maps in advance. There’s a 2.5 mile dirt road with a steady incline into the camp, which my subie had no issue with, but not sure how well an RV would fair.

    Didn’t see any bear, but take bear food precautions regardless. Each site has a fire pit, tent platform, and picnic table. The sites were well cared for. There were two dumpsters, one for recycling and one for trash, at the end of the loop. They are bear proof and almost me proof! The constant sound of running water from the brook was truly relaxing. I didn’t have issues with bugs (beginning of August) but I also didn’t stay in the camp during the majority of the day.

    All in all, a great campsite and I’ll definitely be back.

  • Miccal M.
    Mar. 1, 2024

    Downed Bridge Camp

    Odd Job Primitive Camping

    Great location for a small group to camp at.  Can't wait to go back.  The main area is a walk in and is worth it.  The road into here was easy to drive.  The only thing you will find at this primitive site is a fire ring.

  • Emma N.
    Sep. 27, 2018

    Mount Ascutney State Park Campground

    Quiet and Private

    Before hiking Mount Ascutney, we camped in the state park of the same name. We hiked the Weathersfield Trail (2.9 miles from trailhead to summit). It was a challenge, but well worth it. There were several lookout points with spectacular views. I highly recommend it!

    We arrived around 7pm for a weekend stay. The ranger station was closed, but the rangers were kind enough to leave a note on a whiteboard for all the campers with reservations arriving late. The note reminded everyone of their campsites, and included a map that showed where each specific site was. It was very helpful! The campground is very wooded and dark, so without this map it would have been even more difficult to find our site!

    Due to the looming threat of thunderstorms, we chose a lean-to site. Each sturdy lean-to was equipped with a broom to sweep out any leaves/dirt/debris that had accumulated in there. All sites included a fire ring and picnic table. There were some dated, but clean restrooms. There were coin-operated hot showers that were reasonably priced ($1 for 10 min). The campground also sold firewood ($6 for a good-sized bundle) and ice ($2 for a 5lb. bag) which can be purchased at the ranger station.

    One aspect of this campground that I loved was the privacy. Due to the spacing between sites, and all the trees, it was quiet and peaceful. The campground couldn't have been more than a third full, but I bet it would still be quiet if it were more populated.

    I really enjoyed my stay at Mt. Ascutney State Park Campground, and would love to return!

Guide to Poultney

Tent camping near Poultney, Vermont offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters provides a cozy atmosphere with a caretaker on-site, ensuring well-maintained facilities and a warm welcome.
  • Michigan Brook features free camping spots along a scenic river, ideal for those looking to enjoy a rustic experience with basic amenities.
  • Branbury State Park Campground offers electric hookups and access to hiking trails, making it a well-reviewed choice for families.

Explore local activities

  • At Glen Island (Lake George), visitors can enjoy fishing and swimming in pristine waters, perfect for a fun-filled day on the lake.
  • Turtle Island (Lake George) provides opportunities for kayaking and hiking, allowing campers to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
  • Narrow Island (Lake George) is great for those seeking a peaceful retreat with plenty of space for relaxation and exploration.

Discover local attractions

  • The stunning views at Lake George Islands Long Island Group make it a must-visit for campers looking to soak in the beauty of the area.
  • Carrie W's Land offers a private setting with easy access to local attractions, perfect for those wanting a more secluded experience.
  • Adirondack Safari combines glamping with outdoor activities, providing a unique way to experience the Adirondacks while enjoying modern comforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Poultney, VT is Narrow Island Group — Lake George Islands with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 35 tent camping locations near Poultney, VT, with real photos and reviews from campers.

Keep Exploring