Grout Pond Recreation Area
4.6412 reviewsGrout Pond Recreation Area
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
All campsites are $16 per night, paid at the self-service pay station located near the entrance.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Vermont's wilderness, Grout Pond Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover 80 pristine acres of crystal-clear water surrounded by dense forest. This four-season paradise offers an escape where mornings begin with mist rising off the pond and evenings end with the gentle splash of paddlers returning to shore. Whether you're pitching a tent under towering evergreens, exploring over 10 miles of peaceful trails, or casting a line into the tranquil waters, Grout Pond delivers the authentic Vermont outdoor experience that adventurers crave.
Camping at Grout Pond Recreation Area is available on a first-come, first-served basis and includes options for tent and primitive camping. The area features scenic spots both near the water and further inland.
Historical SignificanceFor generations, Grout Pond has served as a cherished retreat where families and friends gather to reconnect with nature and each other. This timeless camping destination has witnessed countless campfire stories, first catches, and sunrise paddles that become lifelong memories. The area's enduring appeal lies in its unspoiled natural beauty—a testament to Vermont's commitment to preserving wild spaces where the simple pleasures of outdoor life remain unchanged by time.
Weather and SeasonsEach season transforms Grout Pond into a distinct wonderland. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a Nordic paradise perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing through silent forests. Spring awakens the woods with wildflowers and rushing streams, though muddy trails remind visitors to pack waterproof boots. Summer brings warm days ideal for swimming and paddling, accompanied by refreshing Vermont rains that keep the forest lush and green. Come autumn, the surrounding maples and birches explode in a symphony of gold and crimson, offering some of New England's most spectacular foliage viewing under crisp, comfortable temperatures.
ElevationThe campground's gentle, accessible terrain makes it perfect for families and campers of all abilities. Set on level ground surrounding the pond, the area offers easy walking and comfortable camping without steep climbs, allowing visitors to focus on relaxation and recreation rather than challenging ascents.
Natural Features and SceneryGrout Pond's 80-acre expanse of pristine water serves as the sparkling centerpiece of a landscape defined by towering pines, graceful birches, and ancient hardwoods. The surrounding forest creates a natural amphitheater of green, where sunlight filters through the canopy to dance on the water's surface. Wildlife thrives here—watch for moose feeding at dawn, listen for loons calling across the water at dusk, and discover beaver lodges tucked along the shoreline. The level terrain makes every scenic vista accessible, from secluded coves perfect for quiet contemplation to open shores ideal for launching your next paddling adventure.
Geological RegionCradled within the ancient folds of the Green Mountain National Forest, Grout Pond occupies a unique pocket of level terrain carved by glaciers millennia ago. This 80-acre natural basin, filled with pure mountain water, represents a geological gift—a rare flatland oasis amidst Vermont's typically mountainous landscape. The surrounding Green Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop while sheltering the pond from harsh winds, creating a microclimate that supports diverse plant and animal life throughout this remarkable forest ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information about accessibility for campers with disabilities is provided.
Sites SizeThe campground includes a variety of sites with some located by the water and others further inland. Samantha Gravity mentions 11 camping locations by the water with features like raised platforms and grills.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across campsites. Some are scenic spots further inland raised onto a hill, while others are closer to the water, as described by Samantha Gravity.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome sites require a 3/4-mile hike to access, offering isolated scenic spots. User reviews recommend avoiding sites too close to others for privacy.
Best Campsites"According to user reviews, sites by the water, especially those with raised or covered platforms, are most desirable."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 days within any 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Groups
Group camping options are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout11 camping locations by the water, including raised and covered platforms. Scenic spots farther inland on a hill are accessible via a 3/4-mile hike.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Day-use areas open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are unavailable due to first-come-first-served policies.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served basis until May 24th and again from July 15th onward due to construction. Construction may also result in full closures.
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Grout Pond Recreation Area offers various recreational activities both on land and water, centered around the 80-acre Grout Pond. Activities include hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. User reviews emphasize the beauty and tranquility of the area, with Ben Schaeffer calling kayaking 'lovely' and describing the scenery as 'particularly beautiful.'
Hiking
The campground provides over 10 miles of multipurpose, non-motorized trails marked with blue diamond blazes. Trails vary in difficulty and include options such as Camp Loop (0.9 miles, easy), East Trail (3.2 miles, easy to moderate, but not recommended for summer due to wet conditions), and West Trail (2.8 miles, moderate). Samantha Gravity warns visitors about the Camp Trail, noting that it does NOT lead to campsites as expected.Fishing
Fishing is permitted at the pond, with user reviews echoing positive experiences of the activity. Jan Kovarik simply states 'good kayaking and camping,' and Rich Keyes highlights the pond's suitability for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.Boating
Grout Pond is ideal for non-motorized boating activities, including canoeing and kayaking. A 200-foot carry-in boat launch is available near the parking area. User reviews repeatedly mention kayaking as a highlight, with Melissa Kallen praising the pond's views during foliage season.Winter Activities
Winter recreation options include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular at Grout Pond, as emphasized in multiple user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
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- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include sketchy campers (per user reviews), wildlife such as bears, and wet/muddy trails during certain seasons.
Active alerts"First-come-first-served policies are active due to construction. Contact the Manchester Ranger Station for updates."
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
"Contact Manchester Ranger Station for emergencies at 1-802-362-2307. Detailed emergency services specifics are missing.
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo information is available on trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is centered around the 80-acre Grout Pond, a destination for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of amenities for the $16 fee, muddy trails, and issues with homeless or sketchy campers.
Host"No ranger or host is actively present; contact Manchester Ranger Station for support."
Campground Map
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 over Rte 7 and over a two-lane bridge. After the bridge turn right and travel east on the Kelley Stand Road (aka: Stratton-Arlington Road) for about 10.2 miles. Turn right onto Grout Pond Road and follow to the end. Alternatively, from Route 100 in West Wardsboro, travel west on the Stratton-Arlington Road (aka: Kelley Stand Road) for about 6 miles and turn left onto Grout Pond Road.
"Road access is mainly via paved roads until Kelley Stand Road, which is unpaved and can be challenging, especially during wet or snowy seasons."Nearby places
Arlington: Approximately 10.2 miles
West Wardsboro: Approximately 6 miles
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.6
12 reviews
Grout Pond Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Grout Pond Recreation Area are mixed, with many appreciating the natural beauty and serenity while others raise concerns about limited amenities and security. Melissa Kallen praises the free camping available during the off-season and the scenic views during foliage, while Patrick Fallon warns about 'sketchy campers' and potential theft.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
- Beautiful and serene location
- Scenic views, especially during foliage season
- Kayaking and fishing praised as enjoyable activities
- Availability of free camping during the off-season
- Variety...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Limited amenities for the $16 fee; no showers or flush toilets
- Concerns about security due to 'sketchy campers,' as noted by Patrick Fallon
- Some sites blocked off during snowy conditions,...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Carry gear if camping near the pond, as noted by Melissa Kallen
- Be cautious of neighbors and secure belongings, per Patrick Fallon's review
- Avoid the Camp Trail if looking for campsites, as it...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty during peak foliage in autumn, with Melissa Kallen recommending visits during this season. Winter access may be limited due to snow; Solar Gumby notes...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "Absolutely beautiful area. Perfectly wild." - Elizabeth Martin
- "Nice spot but beware of sketchy campers." - Patrick Fallon
- "Kayaking on Grout Pond is LOVELY. It's a particularly beautiful...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Samantha Gravity provides detailed insights into campsite features, mentioning 11 sites by the water with amenities such as raised platforms and grills. Site 11 requires a 3/4-mile hike and offers...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No user reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Melissa Kallen mentions camping with her dog, suggesting that pets are permitted. Official sources state that dogs must be on a leash at all times.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025