Grout Pond Campsites

Grout Pond Campsites offer a truly immersive outdoor experience for those looking to escape the hustle of modern life and find sanctuary in the heart of the Green Mountain National Forest. Located in Stratton, Vermont, this 1,600-acre recreation area is a cherished local gem known for its peaceful atmosphere and pristine natural beauty. Unlike commercial RV parks, Grout Pond is designed for those who appreciate the quietude of primitive camping. The area features a mix of hardwood and conifer forests that surround an 84-acre pond, creating a stunning backdrop for weekend getaways, family adventures, and solo retreats into the wilderness. For Vermont residents, it represents the quintessential "backcountry" experience that is still accessible enough for a quick trip into the woods.

The charm of Grout Pond lies in its simplicity and its commitment to preserving the environment. The campground consists of a small number of sites, many of which are hike-in or boat-in, ensuring that your neighbors are never too close and the sounds of nature remain the primary soundtrack to your stay. Whether you are visiting in the height of summer to enjoy the cool water or during the autumn to witness the legendary Vermont foliage, Grout Pond offers a sense of solitude that is hard to find elsewhere. The community of campers here typically shares a deep respect for the "Leave No Trace" principles, contributing to a clean and respectful environment that makes every visit feel like a discovery of a hidden world.

Location and accessibility are handled with a focus on preserving the remote feel of the area while accommodating visitors. The physical address is 207 Grout Pond Road, Stratton, VT 05360, USA. To reach the campground from the Arlington area, travelers typically take Route 313 to the Stratton-Arlington Road (also known as Kelley Stand Road). It is important to note that Kelley Stand Road is a seasonal gravel road that is not plowed in the winter, so spring and summer visitors should be prepared for a scenic, unpaved drive. The final approach via Forest Road 262 leads directly to the main parking area and boat launch.

Once you arrive, the accessibility features are surprisingly thoughtful for such a rustic location. The main parking lot is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to reach the day-use areas and the water's edge. While most of the campsites require a hike of a quarter-mile to nearly a mile, the trails are relatively flat and smooth. As noted by regular visitors, the paths are well-maintained enough that gear can often be hauled in using carts or wheelbarrows. For those with mobility considerations, campsite number one is specifically designed to be accessible with minimal assistance, and there are barrier-free vault toilets located near the main parking area and the old host cabin.

• Primitive tent sites including both hike-in and boat-in options for maximum privacy.
• A 200-foot carry-in boat launch area specifically for non-motorized vessels like kayaks and canoes.
• Potable water available via an old-fashioned hand pump located in the day-use area (typically Mid-May through October).
• Public restroom facilities including vault toilets at the parking area and along the main trails.
• Day-use picnic areas equipped with grills and picnic tables for those visiting for a few hours.
• Over 10 miles of multipurpose trails marked with blue diamonds for hiking and winter cross-country skiing.
• Professional oversight by the USDA Forest Service to ensure park safety and environmental protection.
• Winter backcountry access for snowshoeing and skiing when Grout Pond Road is closed to vehicles.

• Stunning lakeside views with several campsites positioned directly on the northeastern shore of the pond.
• Kid-friendly environment with flat, easy hiking loops like the 0.9-mile Camp Loop.
• Dog-friendly policies that welcome leashed pets throughout the campground and on the trails.
• Adirondack-style shelters available at select sites, providing a sturdy roof for larger groups.
• Excellent fishing opportunities for those looking to catch perch, pickerel, or bullhead in the 28-foot-deep pond.
• Connection to a more extensive trail system that leads south to the Somerset Reservoir.
• A "Winter Wonderland" experience with the Grout Pond Hut available for year-round reservable stays.
• Quiet hours enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM to preserve the tranquil atmosphere.

As Grout Pond is a federally managed recreation area within the Green Mountain National Forest, inquiries are typically handled through the Manchester Ranger District. You can reach the ranger station for up-to-date trail conditions or campsite information at (802) 362-2307. The physical location for the campground is 207 Grout Pond Rd, Stratton, VT 05360. For those looking to reserve one of the 12 reservable sites or the Grout Pond Hut, the official portal is through the Recreation.gov website or the Vermont Huts Association. Note that some sites are kept on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early in the week is often recommended for the best selection.

What makes Grout Pond worth choosing over other Vermont campgrounds is the unique "middle ground" it occupies between car camping and true backcountry backpacking. It is the perfect place for families who want to introduce their children to the outdoors without the intensity of a multi-day trek. The ability to haul your gear in a few hundred yards means you can still have the comforts of a large tent and a cooler, but you don't have to listen to the sound of RV generators or car doors slamming all night. The smooth, flat trails are a blessing for parents with little ones, and the water is calm enough for even the most novice paddlers to enjoy a day on the lake.

Additionally, the year-round versatility of Grout Pond is a major draw for local Vermonters. In the summer, the "crisp and fresh" air provides a natural air conditioning that is hard to beat. In the winter, the area transforms into a silent, snow-covered movie set, perfect for those who enjoy the solitude of a winter hike or the challenge of cross-country skiing. The sense of history, the proximity to the Appalachian Trail, and the sheer beauty of the mixed conifer forest make Grout Pond a destination that stays with you long after you've packed up your tent. If you are looking for a place where you can truly "bond with Mother Nature" while still having access to a restroom and a picnic table, Grout Pond is undoubtedly one of the best choices in the Green Mountains.