Dispersed camping opportunities near Salisbury, Vermont are situated in the foothills of the Green Mountains at elevations ranging from 450 to 2,000 feet. The region receives approximately 40 inches of annual rainfall with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter camping is available in select locations with proper preparation for temperatures that can drop below 0°F.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Falls of Lana trail connects to Moosalamoo Campground through a 3-mile one-way trail. "Lots of great hiking accessible from the campground, or within a short drive. Silver Lake and Lake Dunmore are nearby. Both have beaches: Silver Lake is accessible only by foot, down a .6 mile trail from the parking area," notes camper Nancy M.
Fishing in shallow waters: Half Moon Pond offers fishing opportunities directly from waterfront campsites. "We fished and kayaked right from our site. Oddly, our fire pit faced the neighboring site rather than the pond," reports Rebecca D. The pond is relatively shallow with some weeds but provides a peaceful setting for anglers.
Mountain biking: Moosalamoo Recreation Area features dedicated mountain biking trails with smooth surfaces. "Moosalamoo campground has awesome bike trails with smooth trail beds and nice rolling bumps. The kind campground hosts can tell you all about the hiking and biking trails within Moosalamoo National Forest," writes 10-year-old reviewer AJB.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campsites at Half Moon Pond State Park offer good separation. "Each site is separated with trees, offering some privacy and a greater sense of nature," according to reviewer M.A.D. P. The campground is divided between more wooded sites and waterfront locations.
Night sky viewing: The dark skies in Green Mountain National Forest provide excellent stargazing opportunities. "At night, you can go out to the bicycle pump track and lay a blanket on the grassy hill against the track and look at stars in COMPLETE darkness," reports Alan about Moosalamoo Campground.
Clean facilities: Despite their rustic nature, toilet facilities at several campgrounds receive positive reviews. "Surprisingly clean vault toilets. No showers. There are dumpsters on the way out for trash and recycling," notes Lauren S. about Moosalamoo, while Cynthia K. observes that at Half Moon Pond, "Restrooms are modern and clean."
What you should know
Bear precautions: Black bears are active throughout the region. "I saw bear storage lockers but I did not use them as I had my bear keg with me," notes Lauren S. at Moosalamoo. Several campgrounds provide bear-proof storage, and proper food storage is essential at all sites.
Road conditions: Access to Green Mountain National Forest FR207 dispersed sites requires vehicles with adequate clearance. "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance. Views are spectacular, choose either sunrise or sunset and you should be able to get a site to fit your needs," advises Miccal M.
Water sources: Many rustic campgrounds have limited water facilities. "The water from the hand pump was fresh, clear and tasty," reports Alan about Moosalamoo Campground, while other sites require bringing your own water supply, especially at dispersed camping locations.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Branbury State Park Campground offers a beach with swimming area included in camping fees. "The beach was nearby and included in the stay with horseshoes and a playground. There was hiking nearby, but with the rain we weren't able to go," writes Desiree V.
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's programming. "Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits," reports J.L. about Branbury State Park.
Safe biking areas: Several campgrounds have protected areas for children to ride bikes. "The one thing we loved the most was that the kids could ride their bikes around safely," writes Elizabeth H. about Country Village Campgrounds, which offers a family-friendly environment with seasonal sites.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: While some salisbury vt campgrounds offer RV facilities, many sites have restrictions. "No hookups are available but there is a dump station and a bathroom facility with paid showers," notes the Trip Over Life reviewer about Branbury State Park Campground.
Site size considerations: Many campsites in the Salisbury area are better suited for smaller RVs and trailers. "Pretty tight along the left side of the pond. The right hand side is very quiet and more wooded," observes Michele S. about Half Moon Pond. "Not many rv, mostly tents and pop ups."
Seasonal access limitations: Most RV-accessible campgrounds in the Salisbury region operate only during the warmer months. "We stayed at Moosalamoo August 29 through September 2 2021 and had a wonderful stay," reports Alan, reflecting the typical camping season that runs from late May to early October for most developed campgrounds.
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