Tent camping around Waterbury, Vermont offers year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation in the Green Mountains. Most primitive camping areas in this region close by mid-October, though winter camping is permitted in certain areas of Green Mountain National Forest. At Camel's Hump State Park, tent platforms at site 1 can accommodate "3 platform and fire pit" according to visitors who've stayed at this popular destination at 4,083 feet elevation.
What to do
Paddle to remote sites: Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites require approximately a 30-minute paddle from the Cotton Brook launch point. One camper noted, "These remote sites are so peaceful. Be sure to launch from cotton brook road if your site r11-27" for the shortest water approach to your campsite.
Swim in natural pools: Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road offers primitive camping along a rock-lined river. A visitor described it as having "a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience" with "gorgeous rock river" features perfect for cooling off during summer months.
Mountain hiking access: Tent sites at Underhill State Park serve as excellent basecamp for mountain adventures. A reviewer mentioned it's "in a perfect spot. About a .3 mile hike to the main trail to climb the mountain" providing direct trail access to Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Underhill State Park, campers appreciate that "camp spots were far enough away from one another, trees helped with privacy, and the tent site had a great area to setup the tent." This walk-in camping area maintains natural buffers between campsites.
Peaceful water access: Green River Reservoir State Park offers boat-in tent camping across its 653-acre reservoir. A visitor explained they "love this location because you have to paddle out to a site for camping. It's private, quiet, and really gives you that 'forest bathing' escape."
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Several camping areas provide excellent wildlife observation opportunities. At Green River Reservoir, campers recommend paddling "out to the Beaver Meadow - we have seen moose there several times" during early morning hours when animals are most active.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Green Mountain National Forest FR25 dispersed camping provides minimal amenities. Reviewers note that "People have been careless with leaving discarded boards and other items" and report theft concerns, as one camper had "Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Site closures: Some dispersed camping areas along Route 100 have recently changed status. Multiple visitors report "Posted NO CAMPING as of 2021" and that this area is "not a campground" despite online listings. Always check current regulations before planning a stay.
Weather considerations: The Waterbury region experiences significant seasonal changes. Several campsites become unusable during wet periods, with one camper at Green Mountain National Forest noting "with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out" at their riverside location.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible wilderness experience: Mount Philo State Park offers family-friendly tent camping with basic amenities. A family who visited noted "We love how private the camp sites were. There are less than 20 sites total, and all sites are near walk-in paths to excellent views."
Equipment transport solutions: At Indian Brook Reservoir, the hike to campsites requires planning. A family of four mentioned "It was a 15 minute hike to the site, so pack light. If you have a kayak, you can transport your stuff over" to reach their lakeside tent platform.
Water safety precautions: Boat-in campsites require proper safety equipment for families. At waterside camping areas like Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites, many tent locations are "on a slope" near water, so families should bring appropriate flotation devices and camping gear suitable for uneven terrain.
Tips from RVers
Small RV access only: Most camping areas near Waterbury cannot accommodate large RVs. At Molly's Falls Pond State Park, the remote camping options and limited roads mean only small camper vans can access certain areas. The park consists of "1064 acres including the 411-acre pond" with very limited developed camping infrastructure.
Seasonal road limitations: Forest roads leading to the best tent camping near Waterbury, Vermont often close seasonally. Patterson Brookside camp is "closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF" and several other dirt access roads become impassable outside summer months.
Limited turnaround space: Forest roads to dispersed camping areas present challenges for larger vehicles. One visitor to Green Mountain National Forest noted they "didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily" with anything larger than a small vehicle.
