Stratton Off The Trail

Stratton Off The Trail offers a truly authentic Vermont wilderness experience for those who want to leave the beaten path behind. Nestled on approximately 400 acres in the southern Green Mountains, this privately owned campground provides a rare combination of historical intrigue and raw natural beauty. For local Vermont residents looking for a retreat that feels significantly more secluded than the standard state park, this location serves as a gateway to some of the most pristine landscapes in Windham County. The property is characterized by its scenic "backside" views of Stratton Mountain and Little Stratton Mountain, offering a quiet perspective of the peaks that many locals only see from the ski slopes.

The land itself is steeped in history, housing the remains of the old Shaw Mill site on Black Brook, which dates back to 1842. Explorers can still find old cellar holes and stone walls that tell the story of the long-ago cabins and families who lived and worked in this remote pocket of the Green Mountains. Today, the property is a haven for those who appreciate the sound of rushing water and the rustle of hardwood forests. With the confluence of the Deerfield River and Black Brook located right on the property, guests are never far from the soothing presence of Vermont’s waterways. Whether you are looking for a hidden "beach" area along the riverbank or a quiet spot to watch for local wildlife, the expansive acreage ensures that every camper can find their own personal slice of tranquility.

Location and accessibility are central to the appeal of Stratton Off The Trail. Located at 68 Grout Pond Rd, Stratton, VT 05360, the campground is positioned perfectly for those who want to enjoy high-altitude recreation without the crowds. It is situated off the well-known Stratton-Arlington Road (also known as Kelly Stand Road), a historic route that winds through the heart of the Green Mountain National Forest. While the campground feels entirely "off the grid," it is remarkably accessible from nearby Vermont towns like Arlington and West Wardsboro. For locals, the drive itself is part of the experience, as Kelly Stand Road offers stunning foliage in the autumn and incredible forest canopy views in the summer. It is important to note that this area is truly wild; the roads are seasonal and provide a rugged entrance that signals the beginning of a true outdoor adventure.

The services offered at Stratton Off The Trail focus on the essentials of a high-quality primitive camping experience. Rather than providing the commercial distractions of a typical RV park, this site prioritizes the natural environment and the needs of traditional tent campers who want to maintain a low-impact presence on the land.

• Dedicated primitive tent sites designed to provide maximum privacy and a direct connection to the surrounding woods and waterways.
• Communal restroom facilities that are maintained to provide basic comfort while preserving the rustic nature of the campground.
• Running water access is available to ensure that campers can stay hydrated and handle basic cleaning needs during their stay.
• Provision of firewood bundles for purchase, ensuring that guests can enjoy safe and sustainable campfires at their designated fire pits.
• Private fishing opportunities for residents who hold a valid Vermont fishing license, with access to both the Deerfield River and Black Brook.
• Direct trail access that allows for "walk-in" exploration of the neighboring state forest and national forest lands.

The features and highlights of this destination make it a standout choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts who are well-versed in the Vermont lifestyle. The property’s unique geography provides a diverse array of activities that can fill an entire weekend without ever needing to start your car.

• Proximity to Grout Pond, located just a half-mile walk down the road, which is a premier local spot for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming.
• Extensive hiking trail network nearby, including over 10 miles of multi-purpose trails in the state forest ranging from easy pond loops to more challenging climbs.
• Direct access to the Somerset Reservoir area, with a hidden half-mile walk leading to the backside of the reservoir for exceptional views and solitude.
• Dog-friendly policies that welcome well-behaved pets, making it an ideal choice for the many Vermont households that include canine companions.
• Historical landmarks on-site, including the 19th-century Shaw Mill ruins and ancient stone walls, perfect for educational walks with children.
• Excellent birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities, with frequent sightings of deer, turkeys, and occasionally moose in the surrounding marshlands.
• A family-friendly environment that encourages children to explore nature, play by the brooks, and learn about the local ecosystem.

For those interested in booking a site or learning more about current trail conditions, the management can be reached via their local Vermont phone lines. As this is a seasonal operation that aligns with the accessibility of the mountain roads, calling ahead is highly recommended for the most up-to-date information.

Address: 68 Grout Pond Rd, Stratton, VT 05360, USA

Phone: (802) 689-2797

Mobile: +1 802-689-2797

What is worth choosing at Stratton Off The Trail is the opportunity for a "river-to-reservoir" experience that is difficult to find elsewhere on private land. Choosing this campground means you aren't just getting a place to sleep; you are getting exclusive access to the confluence of two historic brooks and a short, private path to the Somerset Reservoir. For those who enjoy water sports, the ability to walk from your tent to the reservoir or over to Grout Pond for a morning paddle is a significant luxury. In the height of the summer, when more accessible state parks are crowded, the 400 acres here offer the breathing room that true nature lovers crave.

Furthermore, it is worth choosing for the historical and educational value it adds to a family camping trip. Teaching children about the 1840s sawmill or exploring the "shrine" and stone structures built by previous generations adds a layer of depth to the stay. The sites are priced competitively for the region, and the hospitality of a family-run operation ensures a more personal touch than a government-managed site. If you are looking for a place where the "backside" view of the mountain is your morning wallpaper and the sound of Black Brook is your evening lullaby, Stratton Off The Trail is the premier choice for your next Vermont excursion.

Ultimately, this campground represents the best of Southern Vermont’s rugged charm. It is a place for boots, not flip-flops; for real wood fires, not gas grills; and for those who believe that the best trails are the ones that lead "off the trail." Whether you are a local seeking a new favorite weekend haunt or a visitor looking to experience the Green Mountains as they were meant to be seen, this Stratton gem provides a solid foundation for an unforgettable outdoor memory.