Greendale Campground

Greendale Campground offers a quintessential Vermont outdoor experience, perfect for those seeking to disconnect from the frantic pace of modern life and reconnect with the natural world. Nestled deep within the southern section of the Green Mountain National Forest, this small and intimate campground is a hidden gem known for its serene atmosphere and "deep woods" feel. Unlike larger, more commercialized parks, Greendale provides a rustic environment where the primary soundtrack is the gentle babbling of Greendale Brook as it tumbles over moss-covered stones. This is a destination for the true traditionalist—those who appreciate the smell of a wood fire, the clarity of a star-filled sky, and the simplicity of a well-placed tent site.

Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Greendale Campground is designed to preserve the wild character of the Vermont landscape. The sites are thoughtfully integrated into a forest of mixed hardwoods and conifers, providing a natural canopy that keeps the area cool and refreshing even during the peak of summer. Because the campground is relatively small, with only 11 campsites, it avoids the overcrowding often found in more accessible state parks. It is a favored spot for local Vermonters and visitors who prioritize privacy and a genuine connection to the wilderness. Whether you are using it as a base camp for Adirondack-style hiking or simply looking for a quiet place to read by a stream, Greendale delivers an authentic backcountry-lite experience that is increasingly rare to find.

Location and accessibility are key components of the Greendale experience, offering a sense of seclusion without being entirely unreachable. The campground is located at 698 Greendale Rd, Weston, VT 05161, USA. From the picturesque village of Weston, travelers head north on Vermont Route 100 for approximately two miles before turning onto Greendale Road, also known as Forest Road 18. The final three-mile stretch is a narrow, winding dirt road that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. While the road is accessible by standard passenger vehicles, drivers are encouraged to take it slow. One of the standout features of this location is the "drive-up" accessibility; unlike many backcountry sites that require a long trek on foot, you can pull your vehicle directly up to your campsite, making it an excellent choice for families with gear or those who prefer the security of their car nearby.

Services Offered:

• Eleven designated rustic campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Individual parking spurs at each site, primarily suited for tents, van campers, and small RVs under 24 feet.
• Standardized campsite equipment including a heavy-duty picnic table and a fire ring with a fold-over grill.
• Access to basic vault-style toilets (latrines) maintained by the forest service staff.
• A central registration kiosk with a fee tube for easy, self-service payment upon arrival.
• Direct vehicle access to most sites, allowing for convenient unloading and loading of camping supplies.
• Pet-friendly accommodations where well-behaved dogs are welcome to join their owners on a leash.
• Proximity to nearby village services in Weston or East Wallingford for groceries and emergency supplies.

Features and Highlights:

• Prime brookside camping where most sites directly border the scenic and clear Greendale Brook.
• Direct access to the Greendale Loop, a 4.0-mile hiking trail that winds through lush forests and along scenic streams.
• Exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, with frequent sightings of native birds, deer, and occasionally moose.
• A family-friendly environment with plenty of open acreage for children to explore and learn about nature.
• Zero cell phone coverage, providing a true "digital detox" and a chance to fully unplug from technology.
• Proximity to the Jenny Coolidge Trail, offering additional miles of exploration for hikers and mountain bikers.
• Clean and well-spaced camping lots that provide a balance between community and personal privacy.
• An ideal location for seasonal foliage viewing, as the hardwood forest erupts in brilliant colors every October.

For those planning a visit, the physical address of the facility is 698 Greendale Rd, Weston, VT 05161, USA. As this is a federally managed Forest Service site, it does not feature a dedicated front-office phone line. However, general inquiries regarding current conditions, seasonal closures, or regional forest rules can be directed to the Manchester Ranger District of the Green Mountain National Forest at (802) 362-2307. The campground typically operates from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day, though winter access is possible for adventurous souls via skis or snowshoes when the road is closed to vehicles and utilized as a snowmobile trail.

What is worth choosing Greendale Campground for is the unrivaled peace and quiet it affords the modern traveler. In an era of high-tech "glamping," Greendale remains a bastion of the classic camping tradition. The ability to fall asleep to the sound of flowing water and wake up in a forest that feels untouched by the outside world is a powerful draw. It is particularly worth choosing if you are traveling with children; the small brook provides hours of entertainment for kids who enjoy wading, searching for small fish, or building pebble dams. The site is also an excellent choice for dog owners who want to explore Vermont's trails with their canine companions without the restrictions of more crowded urban parks.

Furthermore, the campground is worth choosing for its strategic location as a trailhead. Hikers don't have to drive anywhere to start their journey; the 4-mile Greendale Loop starts right at the campground, crossing bridges and following old forest roads that tell the story of Vermont's logging history. For those who enjoy "overlanding" or car camping, the ability to drive right to the site while still feeling like you are in the heart of the wilderness is a significant advantage. While there is no potable water on-site—meaning you must bring your own or be prepared to filter and treat water from the brook—this lack of modern utility keeps the campground uncommercialized and preserves the "satisfactory" and "peaceful" experience that regulars have come to love over the decades.

Finally, the affordability and simplicity of Greendale make it a top choice for a budget-friendly New England getaway. With sites priced around $10 per night, it represents one of the best values for outdoor recreation in the state. Whether you are a solo traveler looking for a quiet night under the stars or a family looking to introduce your children to the joys of the Green Mountain National Forest, Greendale Campground provides a safe, clean, and beautiful home base. It is a place where time slows down, the air is crisp, and the natural beauty of Vermont is always just outside your tent flap.