Big Sky Tent Deck

For those of us in Vermont who yearn for a camping experience that truly stands out, one that combines breathtaking natural beauty with a touch of unique charm, Big Sky Tent Deck in Fairlee offers an extraordinary escape. This isn't your average campground; it's a special site located on Willoughby Farm Animal Rescue, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in stunning Vermont landscapes while also supporting a wonderful cause. If you're looking to unwind in a quiet, private setting, enjoy spectacular sunsets, and maybe even make a few friendly animal acquaintances, then Big Sky Tent Deck is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered right here in our beloved Green Mountain State.

The Big Sky Tent Deck site itself is renowned for its incredible panoramic views, especially at sunset, making the short hike in entirely worthwhile. It's designed for those who appreciate the perks of backcountry camping – seclusion, tranquility, and a profound connection with nature – but with some thoughtful amenities to enhance comfort. This unique offering allows visitors to truly disconnect from the daily grind and immerse themselves in the peaceful rhythms of farm life and the vast beauty of the Vermont sky. Whether you're a seasoned camper looking for a new adventure or someone seeking a memorable glamping experience, Big Sky Tent Deck provides an unforgettable setting for your next Vermont getaway.

Big Sky Tent Deck is situated in Fairlee, VT 05045, USA, specifically within the grounds of Willoughby Farm Animal Rescue. Fairlee is a picturesque town in the Upper Valley region of Vermont, offering a quintessential New England rural experience. The location provides stunning views of the First Branch of the White River and overlooks the village of Chelsea, set against the verdant hills of central Vermont.

Accessing the Big Sky Tent Deck site involves a short, scenic hike, which adds to its secluded and private feel. While you can park your car less than a five-minute walk from the other tent deck sites on the farm, the Big Sky Tent Deck is described as being a half-mile hike in, offering a more remote and spectacular vista. This manageable hike makes it accessible for most active individuals seeking that "middle of nowhere" feeling without an arduous trek. The farm's location in Fairlee also means it's within a reasonable driving distance for many Vermont residents, providing a convenient escape to nature. For those who appreciate a little effort for an incredible reward, the journey to Big Sky Tent Deck is part of the adventure.

• Raised Tent Deck: The Big Sky Tent Deck site features a large 8-foot x 10-foot raised deck, perfect for pitching a tent and elevating your camping experience.
• Private Fire Ring: Each site includes its own private fire ring for campfires and warmth.
• Commercial-Grade Park Grill: A dedicated commercial-grade park grill is provided at each site, making outdoor cooking convenient and enjoyable.
• Picnic Table: A private picnic table is available for outdoor dining and gathering.
• Adirondack Chairs: The Big Sky Tent Deck includes Adirondack chairs, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the panoramic views.
• Backcountry Composting Toilet: The Big Sky Tent Deck specifically features a robust, hygienic backcountry composting toilet with a spectacular view, often lauded as a unique amenity.
• Outdoor Hot Shower & Sink: While not directly at the Big Sky Tent Deck site itself, a hot outdoor shower and sink are available on the farm for general guest use.
• Outhouse with Composting Toilet: An outhouse with a composting toilet is also available closer to the main farm area for all campers.
• Gear Rental: Willoughby Farm offers various camping gear for rent, including tents (like a four-person tent that fits perfectly on the deck), cast iron grill baskets and griddles, 1- and 2-burner propane stoves, tarps, and water containers. Portable power stations and kerosene heaters may also be available for rent.
• Farm Shop: The on-site Free Verse Farm Shop offers a variety of fresh produce, provisions, fresh baked goods, and beverages, supporting local farms and artisans.
• Animal Interaction: Guests have the unique opportunity to be near and potentially interact with rescue farm animals, including sheep, alpacas, donkeys, potbellied pigs, and rabbits. (Note: The specific interaction depends on the animal rescue's policies and animal welfare).
• Supplies for Sale: Charcoal and propane are available for purchase on-site.

• Incredible Panoramic Views: The "Big Sky" name is well-earned, as the site offers breathtaking, expansive views of the Vermont countryside, including sunsets that are highly praised by visitors.
• Secluded and Private: Despite being part of a larger farm, the Big Sky Tent Deck is known for its quiet and private atmosphere, providing a true escape into nature. The hike-in aspect contributes to this seclusion.
• Unique Glamping Experience: The raised tent deck, private grill, fire pit, and Adirondack chairs offer a step up from traditional tent camping, providing comfort without losing the outdoor essence.
• Farm Animal Interaction: A distinct highlight is the opportunity to stay on a working animal rescue farm, potentially sleeping near and seeing sheep, alpacas, donkeys, and pigs. This adds a unique and heartwarming dimension to the stay.
• Friendly Host: The host, Josh, is consistently mentioned as super friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall guest experience.
• Interesting Hike In: The half-mile hike to the Big Sky Tent Deck is described as enjoyable, "full of blackberry bushes and lots of random kitsch," adding a fun, quirky element to the arrival.
• Backcountry Toilet with a View: A very unique and often amusing highlight is the specifically designed backcountry composting toilet with a "spectacular view," providing a memorable and surprisingly pleasant convenience.
• Convenient Gear Rental & Farm Shop: The availability of camping gear for rent and an on-site farm shop for provisions adds significant convenience for campers.

Big Sky Tent Deck, being a unique offering within Willoughby Farm Animal Rescue, primarily operates on a per-night fee basis, with all proceeds directly supporting the care and feeding of the rescue animals. While specific, broad "promotions" in the commercial sense are not typically advertised, the unique value proposition of contributing to an animal rescue while enjoying a fantastic camping experience can be seen as its inherent "special offer."

However, based on past information, Willoughby Farm Animal Rescue has occasionally offered special initiatives, such as a "CAMP FOR FREE WEEKEND." For example, a previous offer indicated "SEPT 19-21 2025: Come for the weekend and make a difference in the lives of Rescues. Just (1) message us that you are interested or (2) sign up on the event page on our Facebook profile." This suggests that prospective campers should look for direct announcements from Willoughby Farm Animal Rescue via their website or social media for any future volunteer-based or specific time-limited opportunities. It is always recommended to contact them directly via phone or check their official booking pages for the most current rates and any potential special offers they might extend.

To plan your unique glamping experience at Big Sky Tent Deck and Willoughby Farm Animal Rescue, or to inquire about availability and specific details, please use the following contact information:

Address: XR42+7H, Fairlee, VT 05045, USA (Located within Willoughby Farm Animal Rescue, at 1098 Wild Hill Road, Fairlee, VT 05045)
Phone: (802) 727-0279
Mobile Phone: +1 802-727-0279
Email: willoughbyrescue@gmail.com

It is highly advisable to book your stay in advance, especially since the Big Sky Tent Deck is a popular and unique site. Direct contact will also allow you to confirm any specific farm rules, animal interaction opportunities, or details about the hike to the site.

For us Vermonters, Big Sky Tent Deck in Fairlee offers a truly exceptional and deeply local camping experience that transcends the ordinary. Its location, nestled within the beautiful hills of central Vermont at Willoughby Farm Animal Rescue, provides not just stunning panoramic views and incredible sunsets, but also a chance to connect with a meaningful local initiative. We appreciate places that offer more than just a bed for the night, and the opportunity to be part of an animal rescue mission, even indirectly through our stay, adds a profound layer of value.

What makes Big Sky Tent Deck particularly suitable for us is its unique blend of seclusion and thoughtful amenities. We cherish our privacy and the feeling of being truly "away from it all," and the short, adventurous hike to the Big Sky site delivers precisely that, culminating in breathtaking vistas. The private tent deck, grill, and fire pit offer the comforts of glamping, while the friendly host and the presence of farm animals create a warm, authentic, and memorable atmosphere. It's a place where we can truly disconnect, breathe in the fresh Vermont air, and enjoy the unparalleled beauty of our state, all while knowing our visit supports a worthy cause. For a truly unique, quiet, and visually spectacular local getaway, Big Sky Tent Deck stands out as a top choice for any Vermonter seeking an authentic and unforgettable outdoor experience.

Big Sky Tent Deck

XR42+7H, Fairlee, VT 05045, USA