Campsites near Salisbury, Vermont range from 550 to 1,800 feet in elevation across the western slopes of the Green Mountains. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during day and drop to 50-60°F at night. Several campgrounds connect directly to the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail system, providing extended hiking opportunities beyond the immediate recreation areas.
What to do
Hiking to mountain views: The Chittenden Brook Campground offers direct access to trails within the Green Mountain National Forest. "Great tent camping area with good privacy at sites... nice access to trails right from the campground," notes James K. The campground connects to the Long Trail for extended backcountry hiking options.
Mountain biking on forest trails: Moosalamoo Campground features dedicated mountain biking routes with varying difficulty levels. "Moosalamoo campground has awesome bike trails with smooth trail beds and nice rolling bumps," shares Jill B. The area includes a bicycle pump track where riders can practice skills before hitting the forest trails.
Fishing in secluded ponds: Half Moon Pond State Park provides quiet fishing opportunities in a small, less-crowded setting. "We fished and kayaked right from our site," reports Rebecca D. The pond contains various warm-water species and maintains a 5 mph speed limit for boats, creating calm waters for anglers.
What campers like
Secluded sites with natural spacing: Green Mountain National Forest FR207 offers dispersed camping with impressive mountain views. "Beautiful meadow campsites overlooking the valley. Firepits and tent platforms are in place although most of the sites are drive-in," explains Lily D. These free sites provide more isolation than established campgrounds in the region.
Clean facilities despite remote locations: The vault toilets at Moosalamoo receive consistent praise from visitors. "Surprisingly clean vault toilets. No showers," reports Lauren S. "I saw bear storage lockers but I did not use them as I had my bear keg with me."
Night sky viewing opportunities: The minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "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," shares Alan at Moosalamoo Campground.
What you should know
Weather preparedness essential: Vermont's mountain weather changes rapidly, particularly at higher elevations. Pack rain gear even during summer months, as afternoon thunderstorms develop quickly.
Limited cell service throughout region: Most campgrounds have minimal or no cell coverage. "Cell services on ATT and TMobile were nonexistent," reports K L. at Lake Bomoseen KOA. Download maps and campground information before arrival.
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds operate from Memorial Day through Columbus Day only. "We stayed at site T06, which is right on the water. We were easily able to go straight from the tent to our kayak, which was so awesome," shares Tara S. about Half Moon Pond State Park, which closes after mid-October.
Tips for camping with families
Easy biking options for children: Country Village Campgrounds provides safe cycling areas for younger riders. "The one thing we loved the most was that the kids could ride their bikes around safely," explains Elizabeth H. The campground features flat terrain suitable for beginners and minimal vehicle traffic.
Swimming options for different ages: Silver Lake Campground offers a natural swimming area with gradual entry. "Lake at the top is very nice for swimming and cooling off," notes Emma B. The concrete dock provides a jumping platform for older children while younger ones can wade near shore.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds provide chances to observe local wildlife. "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," shares Phil J. about Green Mountain National Forest FR207. Morning and evening hours offer the best viewing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges for larger rigs: Rogers Rock Campground accommodates RVs but requires careful navigation. "Some roads are unpaved, unmarked with directional signs, very narrow, and tough to navigate," cautions Kim T. Arrive during daylight hours to better assess site conditions.
Limited hookup availability: Most forest service and state park campgrounds lack full hookups. "No hookups but the bathrooms are clean and the showers ($) are hot," notes Susan E. about Half Moon Pond State Park. Plan water usage accordingly or use campgrounds as base camps while exploring.
Generator restrictions throughout area: Most pet friendly camping near Salisbury enforces quiet hours and limits generator usage. Plan for alternative power sources like solar panels if staying at non-electric sites.
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