Best Tent Camping near White River Junction, VT

The Appalachian Trail corridor near White River Junction, Vermont offers numerous backcountry tent camping options within a short drive. Several AT shelters with adjacent tent sites are located within 15 miles of town, including Winturri Backcountry Shelter, Happy Hill Shelter, and Thistle Hill Shelter on the Vermont side, plus Velvet Rocks and Trapper John shelters across the Connecticut River in New Hampshire. These primitive tent campsites typically feature level spots for tents surrounding three-sided shelters maintained by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

Most backcountry tent sites in this region require preparation for minimal amenities. Tent camping areas generally feature dirt or forest duff surfaces with varying degrees of levelness. Water sources at these locations are seasonal and unreliable, particularly during late summer drought conditions. According to multiple reviews, water sources at Velvet Rocks, Trapper John, and Happy Hill shelters were completely dry during August visits. Basic privies are available at most sites but lack other facilities. Campers should bring water filters, food storage systems, and pack-out bags, as bear boxes are not consistently available at all locations.

Tent campers frequently use these sites as overnight stops during section hikes rather than destination camping. One visitor noted that while tent sites around Moose Mountain Shelter offered "large, flat tent sites," the area lacked views beyond "the beautiful surrounding forest." At Winturri Shelter, a camper reported "lots of tent camping spots as you worked up the hill perpendicular to the shelter" with "decent privacy" between sites. Stony Brook Shelter stands out with "a few large tent areas where multiple tents could fit" and access to a small swimming hole downstream. During peak summer weekends, these walk-in tent sites can fill quickly, especially those closest to road crossings, while more remote backcountry tent camping areas offer greater solitude.

Best Tent Sites Near White River Junction, Vermont (37)

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Tent Camping Reviews near White River Junction, VT

748 Reviews of 37 White River Junction Campgrounds



Guide to White River Junction

Tent camping near White River Junction, Vermont, offers a variety of scenic spots for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. With well-reviewed campgrounds nearby, you can enjoy the beauty of the Green Mountains while setting up your tent under the stars.

Tent campers should check out Cardigan Campsites

  • Located in Alexandria, the Cardigan Campsites provide a friendly atmosphere and essential amenities like drinking water and toilets.
  • This site is perfect for those planning to climb Mt. Cardigan, offering a great place to rest before or after the challenging hike.
  • While there are no picnic tables or showers, the natural surroundings make it a peaceful retreat for tent campers.

Explore local attractions near Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter

  • The Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter is a hike-in site that features large tent camping areas and a nearby swimming hole for a refreshing dip after a long hike.
  • This shelter is situated along the Appalachian Trail, making it an ideal stop for those exploring this famous hiking route.
  • With a new privy and spacious tent sites, it offers a comfortable camping experience despite the lack of guaranteed water.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities at Moose Mountain Backcountry Shelter

  • The Moose Mountain Backcountry Shelter features a standard three-sided shelter and ample flat tent sites, perfect for a restful night after a day of hiking.
  • Campers can enjoy a scenic bench overlooking a clearing, providing a lovely spot to relax and enjoy a meal.
  • Although water sources can be seasonal, the shelter's new privy and spacious camping areas make it a solid choice for those venturing along the Appalachian Trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near White River Junction, VT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near White River Junction, VT is Winturri Backcountry Shelter on the AT in Vermont — Appalachian National Scenic Trail with a 4-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near White River Junction, VT?

TheDyrt.com has all 37 tent camping locations near White River Junction, VT, with real photos and reviews from campers.