Camping in the Green Mountain National Forest near Shrewsbury, Vermont offers visitors access to both established campgrounds and primitive sites. The area sits at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet with cool summer nights typically dropping into the 50s even after warm days. Most camping options operate seasonally from late May through mid-October with primitive sites generally offering more extended access depending on forest road conditions.
What to do
Hiking to Little Rock Pond: Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters provides excellent access to the Appalachian Trail and other hiking routes. A camper noted, "The pond is surprisingly warm for its altitude and it's home to two Common Loons. Water is available at a creek and a spring nearby. There's a huge jumping rock on the far side of the pond."
Visit historic sites: Camp Plymouth State Park Campground serves as a good base for exploring nearby historical attractions. "Camp Plymouth honored our Gifford Woods State Park pass which gained us free entry into the park. From there we were able to access the small boat access and kayak beautiful Echo Lake," one visitor reported.
Mountain biking: Many of the forest service roads near Shrewsbury provide connections to established mountain biking networks. From May through October, these trails range from beginner-friendly doubletrack to more technical singletrack routes through the forest.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Campers appreciate the privacy offered at Coolidge State Park Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "It was a very quiet location. There was plenty of room between sites. The roads going in and leaving were well maintained." Another camper shared, "Nice place to get away from it all. Very wooded and private sites. Many have lean-tos and brick ovens."
Fall foliage viewing: October brings spectacular color changes to the forests around Shrewsbury. One camper stated, "I grew up camping here, my parents took us up here every Columbus Day weekend when the color of the leaves were stunning. In the summer the view is just as good, just a lot more green."
Wildlife encounters: The forests around Shrewsbury support diverse wildlife populations. Campers report regular sightings of deer, wild turkeys, and occasionally moose. Owls and other night birds provide natural soundtrack at many campgrounds.
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest roads to primitive sites require appropriate vehicles. A camper at Road's End Dispersed Camp noted, "The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles. The only thing you will find here is a fire ring."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly in the Green Mountains. Temperatures can fluctuate 30+ degrees within 24 hours, especially in spring and fall. Pack layers and rain gear regardless of forecasts.
Limited cell service: Most campsites near Shrewsbury have spotty or no cell coverage. Download maps and information before arrival as digital navigation may be unreliable in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly campsites: Quechee State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities about 40 minutes from Shrewsbury. A camper shared, "Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee.)"
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature safe swimming areas for children. One visitor noted, "Camp Plymouth has a huge beach and picnic area with a snack bar and boat rentals. We made a day of it and enjoyed the whole shebang! This park is especially clean and the staff extremely friendly."
Educational opportunities: Many Vermont state parks near Shrewsbury run junior ranger programs and nature walks throughout the summer. These programs typically last 1-2 hours and introduce children to local ecology through hands-on activities.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds near Shrewsbury accommodate smaller to mid-sized RVs only. At Gifford Woods State Park Campground, a reviewer cautioned, "When camping in VT it is usually our goal to hike, rest, cook, and relax at camp... Gifford Woods has great access to the AT and the Long Trail, nice bathrooms, and kind staff... but campers beware- it is wedged between two major highways."
Leveling challenges: Many campsites in the mountainous terrain require leveling blocks. One camper advised, "We have seen all shapes and sizes come and go, as well as tent campers, and they offer lean to's as well... Biggest Con- It looks like the state has spread out RCA on the sites, which probably could have spread out better and made more level. Also tough to drive a stake into."
Limited hookups: Most state parks and all dispersed camping areas lack full hookups. Plan for dry camping with occasional access to water fill and dump stations at larger established campgrounds.
