Stratton Pond Tenting Area

- 424H+G6, Stratton, VT 05360

For Vermont outdoor enthusiasts, the Stratton Pond Tenting Area represents the quintessential Green Mountain backcountry experience. This location is not a drive-up campground with extensive facilities; rather, it is a designated, primitive tenting site managed by the Green Mountain Club (GMC) within the vast and beautiful Green Mountain National Forest (GMNF). It caters specifically to backpackers, through-hikers, and local Vermonters seeking an immersive, quiet overnight stay deep within the woods.

Situated directly off the storied paths of the Appalachian Trail (AT) and Vermont’s own Long Trail (LT), the area is a popular, yet thoughtfully managed, overnight stop. It sits right on the shoreline of Stratton Pond, the largest body of water along the Long Trail, offering a rare and scenic lakeside camping opportunity.

As confirmed by recent visitor reviews, the site is continually being improved with sustainability and visitor comfort in mind. Modern upgrades like the "brand new fancy moldering privy and a bear box" reflect the commitment to maintaining this beautiful, high-use area according to Leave No Trace principles. While one reviewer noted that the tenting area itself is "a little small," the general sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the "incredibly quiet" nature of the site and the beauty of the surrounding hikes. Its location, slightly removed from the nearby Stratton Pond Shelter, contributes to its perceived solitude, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing peace and quiet in the Vermont wilderness.

The Stratton Pond Tenting Area is a 'hike-in, hike-out' location, meaning there is no direct vehicle access. This adds to its secluded nature and requires visitors to be prepared for a backcountry trek.

The geographical coordinates provided (424H+G6, Stratton, VT 05360, USA) place it firmly within the Green Mountain National Forest in Southern Vermont, near the well-known Stratton Mountain. Its accessibility is defined by the extensive trail system it sits upon:

• Trail Access: The site is a popular side trip or stopover directly accessible from the Appalachian Trail (AT) and the Long Trail (LT).
• Trailheads: The nearest public access point, often used by campers, is the Stratton Pond Trailhead parking area off Stratton-Arlington Road (also known as Kelley Stand Road). From here, the hike to the pond is typically a moderate, beautiful trek of approximately 3.75 to 4 miles one-way.
• Looping Opportunities: For Vermont locals seeking a weekend backpacking loop, the site is ideally located for creating circuits that include Stratton Mountain and the adjacent Bourn Pond area, utilizing interconnecting trails such as 407, 431, and 441, as noted by an experienced local hiker.
• Southern Vermont Hubs: The area is within a reasonable driving distance of Southern Vermont towns like Manchester, Arlington, and Wardsboro, making the trailhead accessible for a weekend outing from anywhere in the state.

The scenic hike to the pond, described by one customer as "beautiful—doesn't matter which direction you come from," sets the stage for a truly rewarding Vermont wilderness experience.

As a primitive backcountry site, the Stratton Pond Tenting Area focuses on providing the essential facilities needed to support Leave No Trace principles and protect the fragile pond ecosystem. Services are minimalist but functional and sustainable.

• Designated Tent Sites: Camping is restricted to designated sites and, potentially, new lean-to structures to minimize environmental impact around the pond. Campers must use these restricted areas.
• Water Access (Non-Potable): Water is readily available from Stratton Pond itself. However, all water must be filtered, boiled, or chemically treated before consumption, as there is no potable tap water supply.
• Sanitation (Moldering Privy): The site features a modern, sustainable sanitation solution in the form of a "fancy moldering privy." This low-impact composting system is designed to handle human waste effectively in high-use areas.
• Food Storage (Bear Box): A critical service for Vermonters camping in bear country, a bear box is available at the site. This steel box provides a secure place to store all food, garbage, and scented items (like toothpaste) away from bears, as required by the GMNF regulations.
• GMC Caretaker (Seasonal): During the summer and fall peak seasons, the Green Mountain Club often staffs the area with a caretaker who helps maintain the facilities, educate hikers on Leave No Trace ethics, and potentially collect a small, typically voluntary, donation for use of the site to support trail and facility maintenance.

The Tenting Area’s features are derived from its natural setting and its prime location within one of Vermont’s most significant trail networks, offering unique benefits for the dedicated hiker and nature lover.

• Stratton Pond Shoreline: The campground’s location right off Stratton Pond is a major highlight, providing beautiful water views, opportunities for swimming or fishing, and the ambient sounds of nature, such as "spring peepers" and birds, as noted by visitors.
• Long Trail / Appalachian Trail Access: The direct connection to the AT/LT makes it a strategic base for long-distance hikers and a bucket-list destination for day hikers and backpackers planning trips through Southern Vermont.
• Quiet & Low-Use Potential: Reviews suggest that this specific tenting area, being slightly separate from the larger Stratton Pond Shelter complex, "likely gets less use," appealing to those who desire a truly quiet, meditative outdoor experience.
• New Lean-to Structure: The current construction of a new lean-to indicates ongoing investment in high-quality, weather-protected shelter options for hikers, which is a major comfort feature for backcountry camping.
• Backpacking Loop Hub: The site serves as an excellent midpoint for creating a variety of personalized backpacking loops that ascend Stratton Mountain or explore the neighboring Lye Brook Wilderness and Bourn Pond.

As a remote, primitive tenting area in the National Forest, there is no direct phone number or staffed office at the site itself. Inquiries regarding trail conditions, camping regulations, and seasonal caretaker details should be directed to the overseeing organizations.

Address (Approximate Location on the Trail): 424H+G6, Stratton, VT 05360, USA

Primary Management and Information Source: The Green Mountain Club (GMC)

(Note: Always check the latest information and conditions with the Green Mountain Club or the U.S. Forest Service before embarking on your trip.)

The Stratton Pond Tenting Area is perfectly suited for Vermont locals because it represents a commitment to the state’s heritage of accessible, high-quality, and sustainably managed wilderness. For those in Vermont, this site offers an authentic, yet streamlined, backpacking experience that is close to home but feels a world away.

It is an ideal location for locals to introduce friends or family to the rigors and rewards of 'primitive' camping without being entirely without essential amenities like a reliable privy and secure bear storage. The chance to camp right on the shoreline of a major Long Trail pond, in a location noted for its quiet atmosphere, is a unique and valuable opportunity. Furthermore, its central position for creating multi-day loops incorporating Stratton Mountain and Bourn Pond gives experienced local hikers a wealth of challenging and beautiful itinerary options. It is a true Vermont backcountry escape—a place to switch off the phone, listen to the spring peepers, and reconnect with the unspoiled nature of the Green Mountains.

Stratton Pond Tenting Area

424H+G6, Stratton, VT 05360, USA