Tent camping near Townshend Lake offers a diverse range of backcountry and established sites across southern Vermont's Green Mountain region. Elevations range from approximately 1,000 feet at the lake to over 3,500 feet on nearby peaks, creating significant temperature variations between sites. Most backcountry locations require advanced preparation for water filtration, as natural sources can be contaminated with Giardia.
What to do
Water activities at Tully Lake: Located within driving distance of Townshend Lake, Tully Lake Recreation Area provides canoeing, kayaking and swimming opportunities. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake," notes Megan G., who appreciated the quiet atmosphere.
Explore waterfalls: The area includes several accessible waterfall hikes within short driving distance. "Near the dam is a larger boat launch with parking... The highlight was Doane's falls, a very quick walk from the campground area," reports Jean C., who hiked the 4-mile loop around Tully Lake.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and dusk provide optimal wildlife spotting opportunities at many locations. At Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters, campers can observe local fauna. "The pond is surprisingly warm for its altitude and it's home to two Common Loons," reports Meredith C., highlighting the natural habitat.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent campers appreciate the layout at several area campgrounds. At Maple Ridge Farm, "Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites. They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot," according to Les R.
No vehicle traffic: Car-free camping areas create a quieter experience for tent campers. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay," notes Megan G. about her experience at Tully Lake.
Water access: Direct water access ranks high among camper preferences. At Barton Cove Campground, "sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables... sites are fenced in due to how steep it is to the water which was a downside but views between the trees are nice," reports Brie B.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather patterns change rapidly throughout the region. At Stratton Pond Shelter, one camper experienced "Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods with only the people I hiked in with. It was great! The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter."
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly, especially during peak seasons. "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year...Booking for Memorial Day meant I booked in April)," advises Kris M. about Tully Lake.
Site access logistics: Many tent sites require some effort to reach. "Only real annoyance was dealing with set up and take down of the campsite- you check in at the office, grab a key to unlock the gate, drive to the campground, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, unload your stuff, drive to gate, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, return key, drive back to campground, walk to your site," explains Brie B. about Barton Cove.
Tips for camping with families
Cart-accessible sites: For the best tent camping near Townshend Lake with young children, consider campgrounds with equipment transport options. "Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site. (This means no noise or disturbances from cars entering your camp sites)," explains Nancy R. about Tully Lake.
Bathroom proximity: When camping with small children, consider site location. "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night. Not our favorite place, but to be fair mostly based on our site and neighboring campers," notes Lauren A. about her experience at Tully Lake.
Activity planning: Family-friendly programming varies by location and season. At Seth Warner Shelter, "IF you arrive late and there is no more room in the shelter use your tent or hammock in one of the many flat perfect spots for either," advises Daniel S., who found the site accommodating for late arrivals.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: True RV camping options near Townshend Lake are scarce, with most sites designed for tent camping only. At Zoar Outdoor, campers note the facilities are "well maintained" though they "Could use a refresh but overall great experience," according to Dominick V., who found the staff "awesome" despite limited RV amenities.
Alternative accommodations: Some locations offer cabin options for those seeking more comfort. "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river," notes Seth K. about Zoar Outdoor, which offers camping alternatives.
