Best Tent Camping near Vernon, VT
The Vermont-Massachusetts border region surrounding Vernon, Vermont offers tent campers several established tent camping options within a reasonable drive. Maple Ridge Farm, a private tent campground in Vermont, provides spacious and private walk-in sites with clean facilities, while Tully Lake Recreation Area in nearby Royalston, Massachusetts features tent-only sites with lake access. These tent campgrounds provide distinct camping experiences that range from rustic to more developed, with most requiring reservations during peak summer months.
Most tent campgrounds in the Vernon area require campers to walk in their gear, with no direct vehicle access to individual campsites. At Tully Lake, campers park in a central lot and use provided carts to transport equipment to sites that range from a few yards to nearly a mile away. Many tent sites include fire rings and picnic tables, though amenities vary by location. Facilities typically include central toilet buildings with showers, and potable water is available at most established campgrounds. Campers should note that some areas have restrictions on alcohol and quiet hours are strictly enforced. Fire bans may be implemented during dry periods, particularly in late summer.
The region offers tent camping experiences that provide a genuine connection to the natural environment. Shaded sites under mature forest canopy are common, and waterfront locations at places like Tully Lake offer excellent swimming and paddling opportunities. The absence of vehicles at most tent campsites creates a quieter, more immersive outdoor experience. At Maple Ridge Farm, campers appreciate the privacy between tent sites, with one visitor noting, "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." Tent campers at Tully Lake benefit from sites on small rises that provide protection during heavy rain events, with options that include waterfront access for swimming and paddling.
