Best Tent Camping near Waterbury, VT
State parks and national forests surrounding Waterbury, Vermont provide diverse tent camping options ranging from established campgrounds to remote backcountry sites. Camel's Hump State Park offers hike-in tent camping about 1.5 miles from the trailhead with approximately 10-12 designated primitive sites. Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites provide boat-in tent-only camping with composting toilets and established fire rings. Underhill State Park, located north of Waterbury, features walk-in tent sites with more amenities including drinking water, picnic tables, and toilet facilities. Green Mountain National Forest offers dispersed tent camping along Forest Road 25 and Route 100.
Most tent campsites in the Waterbury region operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with many closing after Columbus Day weekend. Fire rings are common at established sites, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply during dry periods. Tent pads vary from dirt and forest duff to occasional wooden platforms at designated sites. Backcountry tent camping requires proper food storage as bears are present in the region. Composting toilets or pit privies are available at state park locations, while dispersed camping areas typically lack facilities. Water sources are unreliable at many primitive tent sites, particularly during late summer drought conditions.
Tent campers frequently use these areas as base camps for hiking the surrounding mountains and trails. According to reviews, Camel's Hump sites include "a shared area for eating and food storage" since bears are a concern in the area. At Waterbury Reservoir, one camper noted that while some tent sites are on slopes, they are "peaceful" and "prime locations" worth the 30-minute paddle from the launch point. Underhill State Park receives praise for its "private spots" where "trees helped with privacy." The tent-only nature of many sites creates a quieter experience compared to mixed-use campgrounds, with several reviewers mentioning the excellent night sky viewing and peaceful forest surroundings.