Stratton Pond Tenting Area

stratton pond tenting area

For those of us in Vermont who truly appreciate a deep dive into the wilderness, where the sounds of nature replace the hum of daily life, Stratton Pond Tenting Area offers a unique and authentic backcountry camping experience. Located off the beaten path near the renowned Stratton Pond, this site is a true gem for hikers, backpackers, and anyone seeking profound quiet and natural beauty in the heart of the Green Mountain National Forest. Unlike larger, more developed campgrounds, Stratton Pond Tenting Area embraces a more primitive style, focusing on essential amenities that support responsible outdoor recreation.

In this article, we'll guide you through what makes Stratton Pond Tenting Area a highly recommended spot for local Vermonters. We'll delve into its specific location, how it connects to Vermont's iconic trail systems, and the thoughtful amenities it provides to ensure a comfortable and safe stay in the wilderness. If your idea of a perfect escape involves breathtaking mountain views, the quiet croaking of spring peepers, and a profound sense of solitude, then this tenting area near Stratton Pond might just be your next favorite Vermont destination.

Stratton Pond Tenting Area is situated in a truly picturesque and remote part of Vermont, with its address listed as 424H+G6, Stratton, VT 05360, USA. This GPS coordinate-style address, common for backcountry sites, immediately signals its immersion within the natural landscape rather than a roadside location. It lies within the Green Mountain National Forest, a vast expanse of protected land in Southern Vermont, known for its diverse ecosystems and extensive trail networks.

Accessibility to Stratton Pond Tenting Area is primarily by foot, making it a destination for hikers and backpackers rather than car campers. It is strategically located directly off the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) and Long Trail (L.T.), which are co-aligned in this section of Vermont. This makes it an ideal overnight stop for thru-hikers or a perfect destination for multi-day backpacking trips. Reviews highlight that the hike up to the tenting area is "beautiful," regardless of the direction of approach.

For local Vermonters planning a trip, access points to the A.T./L.T. near Stratton vary. Popular trailheads, such as those off Kelley Stand Road in Stratton or near Manchester Center, provide entry points to connect to the A.T./L.T. system. The hike to the tenting area from these points can range from moderate to difficult, depending on the chosen route and distance. Its proximity to the Stratton Pond Shelter (located east of this side of the pond) might mean it "gets less use," offering a potentially more solitary experience. This type of accessibility ensures that visitors are genuinely seeking a backcountry experience, contributing to the quiet and preserved nature of the site.

Stratton Pond Tenting Area offers a streamlined set of services and amenities tailored to backcountry campers. These provisions are designed to enhance the experience while minimizing environmental impact, in line with Leave No Trace principles.

Services Offered:

• Tenting Areas: Designated spots for pitching tents, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding delicate ecosystem. While described as "a little small," the intention is to provide discrete and quiet sites.
• Lean-to: Currently, there is a lean-to being constructed at this location. Lean-tos provide a three-sided shelter for campers, offering protection from the elements and a communal space for hikers. This is a significant upgrade for primitive camping.
• Moldering Privy: A "brand new fancy moldering privy" is available. Moldering privies are composting toilets designed to safely and hygienically manage human waste in backcountry settings, crucial for maintaining water quality and sanitation.
• Bear Box: The presence of a "bear box" provides a secure, bear-resistant storage container for food, trash, and scented items. This is vital for protecting both campers and local wildlife by preventing negative human-bear interactions.
• Proximity to Stratton Pond: While not a direct service, being "right off of Stratton Pond" means campers have immediate access to the pond for enjoyment, though water for drinking typically needs to be filtered or treated.
• Access to Appalachian Trail/Long Trail: The tenting area's location directly on these iconic trails provides immediate access for hikers to continue their journeys or embark on various loop hikes around Stratton Mountain or to Bourn Pond.

It is important to note that, as a primitive backcountry site, services like potable water, electricity, trash disposal (beyond the bear box for secure storage), or staffed facilities are typically not provided. Campers are expected to be self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace principles, packing out everything they pack in.

Stratton Pond Tenting Area is highlighted by several key features that contribute to its appeal as a quintessential Vermont backcountry destination. These attributes are often what draw seasoned hikers and nature lovers to this specific spot.

Features / Highlights:

• Incredibly Quiet Location: Guests consistently praise the "incredibly quiet" atmosphere. This solitude is a major draw for those seeking a true escape from noise and crowds, allowing for deep relaxation and immersion in nature. You'll hear "birds and the spring peepers start to peep to send you off to sleep."
• Breathtaking Mountain and Pond Views: The tenting area sits "right off of Stratton Pond," offering serene water views, especially as the sun sets. The surrounding "breathtaking" mountains provide a stunning natural backdrop, enhancing the outdoor experience.
• Strategic Trail Access: Its unique position "off the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail" makes it an excellent base for various hiking itineraries. It's ideal for those looking to make a loop with Stratton Mountain, or for relatively easy out-and-back hikes along specific trails (407, 431, 441), or connecting to Bourn Pond.
• Less Usage (Bonus Points): Due to its proximity to the Stratton Pond Shelter, the tenting area "likely gets less use," which is considered a bonus for those seeking more solitude and a less crowded camping experience compared to busier shelters or popular trail stops.
• Improved Facilities: The recent construction of a new lean-to, a "brand new fancy moldering privy," and the presence of a bear box demonstrate an ongoing commitment to improving the site's sustainability and user experience while maintaining its primitive nature. These upgrades address common backcountry needs responsibly.
• Natural Wildlife Observation: The quiet and secluded environment increases the chances of observing local wildlife, from various bird species to other forest inhabitants (with the bear box being a necessary precaution).

As a primitive backcountry tenting area located within the Green Mountain National Forest and managed as part of the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail system, Stratton Pond Tenting Area typically does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional sense, such as discounts or package deals. These sites operate on a fee-based system, or sometimes on a donation basis, to help cover maintenance costs.

For sites along the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail, there is often a caretaker on duty during peak seasons (typically summer and fall) who collects a fee (often around $5 per person per night) for use of the shelter or tenting area. This fee contributes directly to the upkeep of the site, including the maintenance of privies, bear boxes, and surrounding trails. While not a "promotion," understanding this fee structure is part of planning your visit.

It is always advisable for hikers to carry cash in small denominations for these fees. Any changes to fees or guidelines would typically be communicated through the Green Mountain Club (GMC) or the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), or posted at trailheads and shelters. There are no "reservations" for this site; it operates on a first-come, first-served basis, reinforcing its primitive and accessible nature for all hikers.

Contact Information:

Address: 424H+G6, Stratton, VT 05360, USA

Phone:

For Vermonters, Stratton Pond Tenting Area is an unparalleled destination for those who seek the quintessential backcountry experience our state is famous for. Its direct access to the iconic Long Trail and Appalachian Trail means it's ideally suited for hikers, offering a truly immersive journey into Vermont's wild heart. The "incredibly quiet" ambiance, coupled with the breathtaking views of Stratton Pond and the surrounding mountains, provides a profound sense of peace and natural beauty that is increasingly rare to find. With thoughtful amenities like the new lean-to, moldering privy, and essential bear box, the site is managed responsibly, balancing user needs with environmental preservation. Whether you're planning a challenging thru-hike or a serene loop to explore the local trails, this tenting area offers a genuine and uncrowded escape. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect, listen to the sounds of nature, and experience the rugged charm of Vermont's Green Mountains firsthand, making it an ideal choice for locals looking for a deeply authentic outdoor adventure.

Stratton Pond Tenting Area

424H+G6, Stratton, VT 05360, USA