Tent Camping near West Burke, VT

Remote camping options near West Burke, Vermont range from accessible tent sites to backcountry platforms across the Northeast Kingdom's forested terrain. The region sits between the Green Mountains and Connecticut River watershed, with elevations ranging from 700 to 2,500 feet. Most dispersed camping areas maintain primitive conditions with limited facilities, requiring self-sufficiency during typical camping seasons from May through October.

What to do

Paddle to remote sites: Green River Reservoir State Park Campground offers 27 remote campsites accessible only by canoe or kayak. "We try and make our way north to Green River Reservoir every summer. It's a primitive park, perfect for paddling, wild camping, swimming, and watching wildlife," notes camper Tara S. "Be sure to paddle out to the Beaver Meadow - we have seen moose there several times."

Hike the backcountry: Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping provides tent platforms along the Bond Cliff Trail at 4,360 feet elevation. "We got to the site, claimed our platform and hiked over to West Bond to catch a beautiful sunset. Bear box located at a communal 'cooking area' and cold spring water located at the site," shares Hollie G. Platforms require a $10 fee and fill quickly during peak hiking months.

Mountain biking access: Vermont's trail networks connect directly to some primitive campsites. The semi-private tent camping area at Serenity Field provides direct trail access. "Can pull your car right up to the site. Super quiet and secluded. Literally feet away from kingdom trails," reports Matt H., noting convenience for cyclists.

What campers like

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Green River Reservoir State Park Campground receives consistent praise for animal sightings. Mackenzie B. explains, "I 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. There is a lot of beautiful wildlife, and they do an amazing job at preserving the sites."

Natural water access: Many riverside camping spots provide swimming and fishing access. At Lyman Falls State Park Campground, Sarah C. reports, "We started a multi day canoeing trip from this spot. The riverbank is a great spot to fish from and enjoy the afternoon sun." Sites typically include fire rings and basic facilities.

Elevated platform camping: Molly's Falls Pond State Park Campground features five unofficial remote sites available first-come, first-served. "This 411-acre lake is largely undeveloped and is an excellent spot for swimming, boating and fishing. Anglers will find a variety of fish including rainbow trout, brown trout, northern pike, pickerel, smallmouth bass and yellow perch here," notes M.A.D. P.

What you should know

Seasonal access limitations: Most remote tent campsites near West Burke close during winter months, typically operating from May through October. Green River Reservoir operates "May 19 to Columbus Day weekend," while Molly's Falls is available "Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend."

Limited facilities: Maine Railroad Trestle demonstrates the primitive nature of many sites. "While reservations are not required, there is a registration page on the CT River Paddler's Trail Website that they ask folx to complete just so spots don't get overcrowded," explains Sarah C., adding that facilities consist of "a picnic table and fire ring."

Wildlife concerns: Tick prevention requires attention at riverside camping areas. Sarah C. cautions that at Maine Railroad Trestle, "If you walk through the campsite, there is a massive cornfield, just beware that the ticks in the field are insane! They weren't bad in the campsite but in the grass, they were epic."

Tips for camping with families

Water safety planning: When camping with children at boat-in sites, prepare for loading challenges. At Scott C. Devlin Memorial, Sarah C. warns, "There is a set of wooden steps that go down into the water at a relatively steep angle. Be sure you tie your boat up while unloading as there is a fair amount of current sweeping around the bend. Use caution moving up and down the steps."

Tent space considerations: Families need sufficient flat areas for multiple tents. Lyman Falls provides adequate space: "There are three sites with nice large pines offering ample shade. Each site has enough flat space to pitch a couple of tents (anywhere from 2 to 5 depending on which site)."

Select accessible sites: Car-accessible tent sites reduce gear-hauling challenges with children. At Devil's Rest Shelter, camper Justin P. notes the area is "nestled in the woods, with a privy nearby and a bear box," providing basic necessities without requiring lengthy hiking.

Tips from RVers

Limited RV options: Most tent campsites near West Burke, Vermont restrict access to tent-only camping. Only Anthony and Josephine's Camp lists RV accommodation among the nearby campgrounds, though with no hookup facilities or amenities specifically for RVs.