Stratton Pond Tenting Area

The Stratton Pond Tenting Area is a premier backcountry destination located within the lush expanse of the Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont. As a vital stop for hikers traversing both the Appalachian Trail and the Long Trail, this camping area offers a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the New England wilderness. Stratton Pond itself is celebrated as the largest body of water on the Long Trail, providing a stunning backdrop for an overnight stay or a multi-day backpacking expedition. The tenting area is managed with a focus on conservation, ensuring that the heavy foot traffic from these iconic trails does not compromise the delicate shoreline or the local ecosystem.

For Vermont locals and visitors alike, the Stratton Pond Tenting Area represents the heart of the southern Green Mountains. The atmosphere is one of quiet contemplation and outdoor adventure, where the sounds of the forest replace the hum of daily life. The site is particularly favored by those seeking a more "authentic" camping experience, far removed from the paved roads and electrical hookups of modern RV parks. Instead, campers find themselves surrounded by mixed hardwood and softwood forests, where the change of seasons brings a vibrant rotation of emerald summer leaves and fiery autumn foliage. Whether you are a thru-hiker making your way toward the Canadian border or a local family looking for a challenging but rewarding weekend trip, this location provides a sense of accomplishment and serenity.

The location and accessibility of the Stratton Pond Tenting Area require a degree of preparation, as the site is accessible only by foot. Located in the town of Stratton, Vermont, the primary access point is the Stratton Pond Trailhead situated along Kelley Stand Road (also known as Stratton-Arlington Road). From the parking area, hikers must embark on a 3.8-mile gradual ascent to reach the pond and the designated camping sites. Alternatively, more adventurous visitors can access the pond via the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail, which leads over the summit of Stratton Mountain before descending to the water. It is important to note that Kelley Stand Road is a seasonal gravel road and is typically closed during the winter months, meaning access is generally restricted to the summer and fall seasons. Once at the pond, the terrain is manageable, featuring puncheons (plank bridges) over wet areas to protect the trail and keep hikers' boots dry.

Services Offered:

• Designated backcountry tenting sites equipped with level ground for tent placement.
• Provision of wooden tent platforms at specific locations to reduce environmental impact on the soil.
• Access to a modern, fancy moldering privy (composting toilet) for sanitary waste management.
• On-site bear boxes for secure food storage, essential for protecting both campers and local wildlife.
• Seasonal caretaker services provided by the Green Mountain Club to assist hikers and monitor the site.
• Maintenance of the nearby Stratton Pond Shelter and Stratton View Shelter for those seeking a lean-to experience.
• Trail maintenance and signage provided by the US Forest Service and the Green Mountain Club.
• Educational guidance on "Leave No Trace" principles to help preserve the wilderness area.

Features and Highlights:

• Spectacular views of Stratton Pond, the largest and most picturesque body of water on the Long Trail.
• A newly constructed lean-to currently under development to expand sheltered sleeping options.
• Close proximity to the summit of Stratton Mountain, a 3,940-foot peak featuring a historic fire tower.
• Exceptional birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities, including loons, moose, and spring peepers.
• An incredibly quiet environment, especially at night when the forest settles into a peaceful stillness.
• Direct access to some of the most famous hiking infrastructure in the United States, including the AT and LT.
• Availability of kid-friendly hiking routes when approaching from the more gradual Stratton Pond Trail.
• Multiple loop options for hikers, including routes toward Bourn Pond and the Lye Brook Wilderness.
• Clean and well-maintained backcountry infrastructure that balances utility with wilderness preservation.

To reach the Stratton Pond Tenting Area or to inquire about current trail conditions and seasonal closures, visitors should contact the local management offices. While the site itself is a remote backcountry location without a direct phone line, information can be obtained through the Manchester Ranger District of the Green Mountain National Forest. The physical address for the trailhead is roughly located at 424H+G6, Stratton, VT 05360, USA. For detailed inquiries, you may contact the Green Mountain Club at (802) 244-7037 or the Manchester Ranger Station at (802) 362-2307. Because the site operates on a first-come, first-served basis, arriving early in the day is recommended, especially during peak fall foliage weekends when the area is most popular.

What is worth choosing the Stratton Pond Tenting Area for is the sheer quality of the backcountry experience it offers. Unlike many dispersed camping areas, the addition of the moldering privy and bear boxes makes it a much more comfortable and safer destination for families and beginner backpackers. The involvement of the Green Mountain Club ensures that the facilities are kept in excellent condition, and the presence of a caretaker during the busy months provides an added layer of security and information for those new to the area. The pond itself is a major draw; its calm waters are perfect for a refreshing swim after a long day of hiking or for simply watching the sunset over the mountains.

Furthermore, this location serves as a historic and inspirational hub. It was on the nearby summit of Stratton Mountain that the ideas for both the Long Trail and the Appalachian Trail were first conceived. Camping at Stratton Pond allows you to walk in the footsteps of those early conservationists while enjoying modern amenities that make the wilderness more accessible. The site is notably quiet at night, often cited by visitors as a place where the road noise of the valley completely disappears, leaving only the sounds of nature. For those looking to escape the crowds of more developed campgrounds, the trek into Stratton Pond is a small price to pay for the tranquility and natural beauty that await at the end of the trail.

Finally, the versatility of the area makes it worth the trip. Whether you are looking for an easy out-and-back day hike with a picnic by the water, or a challenging multi-day loop through the Lye Brook Wilderness, Stratton Pond serves as the perfect center point. Its status as a "Journey" style backcountry site means it is optimized for people who are on the move but still appreciate a clean, well-organized place to rest. By choosing this location, you are supporting the continued efforts of Vermont's trail maintainers and ensuring that this vital piece of the Green Mountain National Forest remains a treasure for generations of hikers to come.