Grout Pond Campground
4.4449 reviews2538 Depot Street
Grout Pond Campground
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fees are $16 per night for standard non-electric tent sites, walk-in sites, and shelter sites during peak season. Additional reservation fees...
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Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$16.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$32.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider802-362-2307none
About this campground
Nestled deep within Vermont's pristine Green Mountain National Forest, Grout Pond Campground offers an intimate escape with just 12 thoughtfully placed campsites. Three convenient drive-in sites welcome families and those seeking easy access, while nine secluded walk-in sites reward adventurers with enhanced privacy and immersion in nature. This hidden gem serves as your basecamp for endless outdoor pursuits—cast a line into the tranquil pond waters, paddle across the glassy surface at dawn, or explore miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through the surrounding wilderness.
Grout Pond Campground offers a mix of camping experiences, including tent camping, small RV drive-in sites, and hike-in sites. Additionally, the Grout Pond Hut provides year-round cabin accommodations.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Grout Pond in dramatically different hues. Spring arrives with rushing snowmelt and muddy trails that gradually give way to wildflower blooms. Summer brings warm, sun-dappled days perfect for swimming and lazy afternoons by the water—though mountain breezes keep temperatures refreshingly cool. Autumn transforms the landscape into a breathtaking canvas of crimson maples and golden birches, creating some of New England's most spectacular foliage displays. Winter blankets the forest in pristine snow, turning familiar trails into a wonderland for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures.
ElevationPerched among the rolling ridges of Vermont's Green Mountains, the campground's gentle elevation creates a natural climate oasis. Here, summer temperatures remain delightfully cool even during the warmest months, offering welcome relief from valley heat. The mountain air carries the fresh scent of evergreens and delivers crisp, star-filled nights perfect for campfire gatherings.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of New England forest surrounds you at Grout Pond, where towering red spruces mingle with graceful yellow birches and vibrant red maples to create a diverse woodland ecosystem. The centerpiece of this natural sanctuary is the stunning 84-acre Grout Pond itself—a pristine mountain lake plunging to depths of 28 feet. Morning mists rise from its mirror-like surface, while loons call across the water and beaver lodges dot the shoreline. This protected watershed remains remarkably undeveloped, offering visitors a glimpse of Vermont's wild beauty as it existed centuries ago.
Geological RegionGrout Pond Campground sits within the ancient geological wonderland of the Green Mountain National Forest, where centuries of natural forces have sculpted a landscape of gentle peaks and hidden valleys. The surrounding mixed conifer and hardwood forests thrive on slopes carved by glaciers millennia ago, while the spectacular 84-acre pond fills a natural basin that serves as the heart of this mountain ecosystem. This diverse forest tapestry represents one of New England's finest examples of northern hardwood and spruce-fir transition zones.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed, but the campground includes hike-in sites with varying distances and some drive-in sites, possibly accommodating different mobility needs.
Sites SizeThe sites range from tent pads for hike-in sites to drive-in sites for small RVs. Specific measurements are not provided.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews provide mixed feedback on privacy. One reviewer notes that "the site renovations have completely removed all privacy screening between the site and the trail," while others mention secluded sites such as site #17 described as "a quiet, secluded car camping site."
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviewers recommend reserving waterfront sites for better views and seclusion. Bring bug spray during black fly season and plan walk-ins during daylight for easier setup.
Best CampsitesSite #1 is frequently praised for its proximity to the pond and seclusion. Sites #4 and #5 are also recommended for their scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Unknown
Check-out
Unknown
Stay Limit
No stated limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No stated limit.
Groups
Details about group camping are not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes nine walk-in tent sites and three drive-in sites. Walk-in distances range from 0.25 to 0.75 miles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to October 14 each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, the mobile app, or contact center. Scan-and-Pay is available for first-come, first-served sites.
Walk-in AvailabilityTwo drive-in campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyScan-and-Pay reservations are non-refundable, non-modifiable, and cannot be canceled.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Grout Pond Campground offers year-round recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, paddling, and non-motorized boating. In warmer months, the 84-acre, 28-foot-deep Grout Pond is a central attraction for these activities. "Hiking is another popular activity at Grout Pond. Over 10 miles of relatively flat trails are accessible from the campground," and these connect to a broader trail system off National Forest lands.
Hiking
The campground provides access to over 10 miles of relatively flat, multi-use trails. These trails connect to a more extensive system near Somerset Reservoir. Trails are marked with blue diamond blazes, designed for cross-country skiing, and can be muddy during spring, summer, and fall. One user describes, "We also walked the whole loop around the lake with our 4-year-old."Fishing
Grout Pond is popular for fishing, with non-motorized boats allowed on the water. No specific fish species are mentioned.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in Grout Pond, described by one user as "Great to swim in!"Boating
Non-motorized boating is a highlight activity. A 200-foot carry-in boat launch is accessible from an unloading area near the parking lot. One user review notes, "Kayaking on Grout Pond is LOVELY."Beach activities
While not explicitly called a beach, the common 'beach' area is mentioned for relaxing, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.Winter Activities
The trails marked for cross-country skiing suggest winter recreational opportunities, but specifics are not detailed.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular activities at Grout Pond.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are enforced, particularly to handle noisy campers.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include muddy trails, standing water at certain campsites, and wildlife interactions, including bears.
Active alertsNo alerts mentioned in the provided materials.
Weather forecast
39
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are in Manchester Center, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - October 14.
Trash and recyclingLimited details are provided about trash and recycling facilities. One user recommends, "take all trash when you go."
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Grout Pond, which is popular for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
Common complaintsComplaints include issues with muddy trails, standing water at campsites, poorly maintained toilets, and a lack of privacy at renovated sites.
HostThere are no permanent campground hosts, but AmeriCorps volunteers assist with maintenance.
Campground Map
2538 Depot Street
Driving directionsFrom Route 7 in Arlington, take the Arlington exit and turn west on Route 313 at the end of the exit ramp. Take the first right onto South Road and follow to the end. Turn right onto Kansas Road and follow it over Route 7 and over a two-lane bridge. After the bridge turn right and travel east on the Kelley Stand Road (Stratton-Arlington Road) for about 10.32 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 262 and follow to the end. From Route 100 in West Wardsboro, travel west on the Kelley Stand Road (Stratton-Arlington Road) for about 6.0 miles. Turn left onto Forest Road 262 and follow it to the end.
Access to the campground requires travel on Forest Road 262, which is unpaved and may present challenges during wet or muddy seasons.Nearby places
Manchester Center is approximately 10 miles from the campground, while Stratton Village is about 15 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, groceries, and fuel are available in Manchester Center, which is approximately 10 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
49 reviews
Grout Pond Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is highly praised for its natural beauty, secluded atmosphere, and variety of recreational activities. However, some users have highlighted issues such as muddy trails, poor toilet conditions, and a lack of amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 49 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users commend the scenic beauty of Grout Pond, with one reviewer stating, "Absolutely beautiful area. Perfectly wild." Others highlight the variety of activities and well-maintained campsites,...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poor toilet maintenance, muddy trails, and privacy concerns. For example, a reviewer noted, "The toilet at the parking lot…ugh," and another mentioned, "The site renovations...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend reserving a site early, especially waterfront sites, and bringing bug spray and proper gear for muddy conditions. One reviewer advises, "Wear mud boots," while another states, "If...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are noted for their muddy conditions, with one reviewer mentioning, "Trails that are marked with blue diamond blazes... can be very wet and muddy in the spring, summer, and even...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Kayaking on Grout Pond is LOVELY. It's a particularly beautiful spot." - Ben Schaeffer; "Absolutely gorgeous spot with unmatched views and a grand variety of sites." - Samantha Gravity; "Clean,...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1 is repeatedly praised for its seclusion and proximity to water, with one user noting, "Wonderful, secluded campsite (site #1)." Site #8 is highlighted for its Adirondack shelter, as another...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features or experiences directly.
Based on 49 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews provide detailed pet-related experiences.
Based on 49 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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