Tent camping near Westminster, Vermont typically involves higher elevation sites ranging from 600 to 3,000 feet above sea level with temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding valleys. The area's camping season generally runs from May through October, with September offering reduced crowds and prime foliage viewing. Most primitive sites require proper food storage due to local wildlife including black bears.
What to do
Whitewater adventures: At Zoar Outdoor, campers can access guided rafting experiences on the nearby Deerfield River. "Overall had a wonderful experience at zoar campsite in charlemont ma. Staff was awesome, went out of their way to take care of our group from camping to rafting," notes Dominick V.
Waterfall hiking: The Westminster region offers several waterfall trails within 30 minutes of tent sites. Hikers staying at Tully Lake Recreation Area can explore Doane's Falls. "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area," explains Nancy R.
Paddling excursions: Many campgrounds provide direct water access for kayaking and canoeing. "The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail," reports Miccal M. about Stratton Pond Shelter, describing a winter visit but noting the summer paddling potential.
What campers like
Platform camping: Several campgrounds near Westminster offer elevated wooden platforms that keep tents dry during wet weather. "Operated by the Green Mountain Club caretaker who lives onsite, this campsite costs only $5 per person per night. There's a big 3-wall cabin with room for at least 12, several tent platforms," explains Meredith C. about Little Rock Pond Group Camp.
Private settings: Campers consistently praise the spaciousness between sites at Westminster area campgrounds. "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," notes Les R. about Maple Ridge Farm.
Car-free camping: Many tent campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere that comes with walk-in sites. "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out," reports Megan G. about Tully Lake Recreation Area.
What you should know
Reservation timelines: Popular Westminster area tent sites fill extremely quickly during peak season. "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), so you have to be on your game," warns Kris M.
Weather preparations: The area experiences significant temperature swings, particularly at higher elevations. "Spent the weekend here on the last weekend of Feb. 2024. Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods with only the people I hiked in with," reports Miccal M. about winter camping at Stratton Pond Shelter.
Gear transport: Many tent sites require additional planning for equipment movement. "You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site," explains Nancy R. about the logistics at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: When tent camping with children in Westminster, seek out campgrounds with gradual shorelines. "The pond is surprisingly warm for its altitude," notes Meredith C. about Little Rock Pond, making it suitable for families with younger swimmers.
Bathroom proximity: Families should consider site location relative to facilities. "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," warns Lauren A. about Barton Cove Campground.
Activity options: Westminster area tent campgrounds often provide additional recreational opportunities for children. "You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax. It's a beautiful area right in your own back yard," mentions Ben P. about the diverse family activities at Tully Lake.
Tips from RVers
Tent-focused campgrounds: Most Westminster area campgrounds primarily accommodate tent campers with limited RV amenities. "Rustic camping only- sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables," explains Brie B. about the tent-centric nature of Barton Cove, highlighting that RVers may need to seek alternatives.
