Tent camping near Williamsville, Vermont offers backcountry shelter options, tent platforms, and walk-in sites throughout the Green Mountain region. Elevations range from 600 to over 3,000 feet in nearby camping areas, with significant temperature variations between valley and mountain sites. Several locations require hikers to carry gear between 0.2 miles to nearly 4 miles from parking areas to reach designated campsites.
What to do
Water activities on Tully Lake: The lake offers multiple exploration options at Tully Lake Recreation Area, located about 30 miles southeast of Williamsville. "We take our canoe and spend the whole day at the lake. You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax," notes camper Ben P.
Long Trail hiking: Access segments of Vermont's iconic 272-mile footpath near several backcountry shelters. A winter hiker at Stratton Pond Shelter reports: "Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods with only the people I hiked in with. It was great! The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter."
Doane's Falls exploration: Located near Tully Lake campground, this series of cascading waterfalls provides accessible hiking. "The highlight was Doane's falls, a very quick walk from the campground area," explains Jean C., noting the falls are popular with photographers.
What campers like
Site privacy and layout: Many tent sites feature natural vegetation barriers and strategic placement. At Maple Ridge Farm, the owners assist campers with gear transport. "They have a common room that has games and eggs for sale. Toilet and shower were very clean," notes Les R.
Wildlife observation: Common loons and other wildlife attract nature enthusiasts. At Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters, "The pond is surprisingly warm for its altitude and it's home to two Common Loons. Water is available at a creek and a spring nearby," according to Meredith C.
Rustic camping experience: Barton Cove offers a more primitive camping option with restricted vehicle access. "Rustic camping only- sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables. Porta potties and latrines were very clean," shares Brie B. Sites are fenced due to steep terrain near the water.
What you should know
Access limitations: Many tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. At Barton Cove Campground, the check-in process involves multiple steps: "You check in at the office, grab a key to unlock the gate, drive to the campground, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, unload your stuff, drive to gate, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, return key."
Seasonal variations: Winter camping requires additional preparation, especially at higher elevations. The Stratton Pond Shelter area receives significant snowfall, making the 3.75-mile approach more challenging from December through March.
Water sources: Not all backcountry sites provide drinking water. At Little Rock Pond, water is available "at a creek and a spring nearby" but requires treatment before consumption. Some established campgrounds provide potable water at central locations rather than individual sites.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection considerations: Choose walk-in sites based on distance from parking. At Tully Lake, Megan G. recommends: "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. No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around."
Activity planning: Incorporate water-based recreation when possible. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake. Great trip!" notes Megan G. Many sites offer on-site rentals for canoes and kayaks.
Bathroom access planning: Central facilities may require significant walking distance from remote sites. Nancy R. advises: "The bathrooms are located near the entrance to the Park, and include flush toilets as well as coin operated, hot showers, open 24/7. There are sinks beside the building, where campers are asked to wash their dishes."
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options: The Williamsville area primarily accommodates tent camping with few dedicated RV sites. Most campgrounds feature walk-in tent platforms, shelters, or primitive sites not suitable for recreational vehicles.
Alternative accommodations: Consider cabin options at Zoar Outdoor located about 25 miles west of Williamsville. "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," reports Dominick V. The location offers tent sites plus cabin and yurt alternatives.
