Best Tent Camping near Wilmington, VT
Scattered throughout the Green Mountains surrounding Wilmington, Vermont, tent campers will find a mix of established campgrounds and primitive backcountry sites. Stratton Pond Shelter, accessible via a hike-in trail, offers both tent platforms and a rustic cabin option for backcountry campers exploring the area. Seth Warner Shelter, another tent-friendly option, provides basic amenities for backpackers along the Long Trail with tent pads and hammock spots available nearby.
Tent sites throughout the region typically feature minimal amenities with most requiring campers to pack in their own water and supplies. Most backcountry tent areas include designated fire rings, though fire restrictions may apply during dry periods. The Green Mountain National Forest allows dispersed tent camping in many areas, provided campers set up at least 150 feet from trails and water sources. Vault toilets are available at designated shelters and established campgrounds, but primitive tent sites require following proper sanitation practices. Many tent locations feature natural, ungraded surfaces ranging from forest duff to occasional rocky terrain.
Areas around Stratton Pond are particularly popular with tent campers seeking peaceful waterfront sites. The tent platforms at Stratton Pond Shelter offer level surfaces for camping with direct access to one of the largest bodies of water along the Long Trail. A recent visitor noted, "The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail." Tent campers at Seth Warner Shelter enjoy access to hammock-friendly trees and tent spots with a fire pit nearby. Sites closer to Wilmington tend to fill quickly during summer weekends, while more remote tent areas offer greater seclusion. During fall, tent campers experience vibrant foliage displays with generally fewer crowds at backcountry sites. A reviewer of the Seth Warner Shelter mentioned there are "many flat perfect spots" for both tents and hammocks, making it suitable for overnight or section hikers.






