Little Rock Pond/Green Mountain Loop
03 reviewsLittle Rock Pond/Green Mountain Loop
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
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
$5 per person per night to camp, fees go toward trail and site maintenance managed by Green Mountain Club caretaker.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Escape the ordinary at Little Rock Pond and Green Mountain Loop, where your adventure begins with a scenic hike into Vermont's backcountry. This trail-accessed sanctuary combines the raw beauty of rugged mountain terrain with the tranquil shores of a pristine alpine pond. Whether you choose the rustic shelter or pitch your tent under towering evergreens, you'll find yourself immersed in wilderness while benefiting from the knowledge and care of an on-site caretaker who helps preserve this special place.
The campground accommodates tent camping and offers a shelter maintained by the Green Mountain Club. Dispersed campsites and primitive camping options are available.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of the Green Mountains, where winter blankets the landscape in deep snow, creating a wonderland for snowshoers and hardy cold-weather campers. As spring melts into summer, the mountains come alive with wildflowers and comfortable temperatures that make hiking a joy. Late spring through early fall offers the sweet spot for camping, with warm days perfect for pond swimming and cool nights ideal for campfire conversations under star-filled skies.
ElevationPerched at 2,500 feet above sea level, this mountain retreat offers a refreshing escape from summer heat and a front-row seat to nature's high-altitude theater. The elevation creates its own microclimate, where morning mists dance across the pond and afternoon breezes carry the scent of balsam fir. The varied terrain at this height challenges hikers with rocky outcrops and rewards them with breathtaking vistas that stretch for miles.
Natural Features and SceneryLittle Rock Pond serves as the jewel in this wilderness crown, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks and providing a home to a cherished pair of nesting loons whose haunting calls echo across the water at dawn and dusk. The ridgeline trail unveils panoramic vistas that will leave you breathless—and not just from the climb. This secluded haven offers the kind of profound peace that only comes from being surrounded by untouched forest, where every turn reveals another postcard-worthy scene of Vermont's legendary mountain beauty.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of the Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests, this campground sits at the heart of one of New England's most beloved wilderness areas. These ancient mountains tell a geological story millions of years in the making, where glacial forces carved valleys and ridges that now provide endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for campers with disabilities are not explicitly mentioned in the provided information.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes are not explicitly mentioned. However, user reviews describe the sites as clean and level.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews indicate that the sites are well-arranged and secluded. Rachel Mackintosh writes, "The dispersed campsites are clean and arranged well."
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPole usage recommended for slick trail conditions. Sites are level and clean as reported by users.
Best CampsitesThe caretaker assigns campsites based on suitability during your arrival; clean and level sites recommended.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
No horses, mountain bikes, or motorized vehicles permitted.
Groups
No specific group camping facilities are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutDispersed tenting sites and a shelter, all organized by the on-site caretaker.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites and shelter are available on a first-come, first-served basis, organized by the caretaker.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers activities centered around its natural setting, including hiking, swimming, and observing wildlife. Visitors can hike the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail and enjoy swimming in the pond.
Hiking
The campground is located along the Appalachian/Long Trail, with trails offering various terrains from gentle forest paths to rocky sections. User Rachel Mackintosh highlights, "Lovely hike in, short but covering terrain from a pleasant walk in the woods to gnarly big rocks." Another user, SAM DUCHARME, mentions, "Only a few miles round trip on the Appalachian Trail, the longest 'hiking only' trail in the US."Swimming
Swimming in Little Rock Pond is a popular activity. As noted by user SAM DUCHARME, "Swim in the clear waters, hike around the lake or jump off the ledges for a thrill." However, user Meredith Carli advises, "Swim in the pond, but no soaps or dishwashing!"Wildlife viewing
The pond is home to various wildlife, including a mated pair of loons, as described by user Rachel Mackintosh: "There are a mated pair of loons on the pond. It's a great spot."Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned in the provided information.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits with grills are available for use.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include slick rocks and boards on the trail, requiring careful navigation. Wildlife like loons and other animals may be present.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.9 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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned. Campers are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace ethics, such as carrying out what they carry in.
Proximity to water featuresLittle Rock Pond is located directly adjacent to the tenting area and shelter, providing opportunities for swimming and enjoying water views.
Common complaintsNo restrooms or potable water are available at the site.
HostCaretaker (shoutout noted to 'Pterodactyl') manages the site, organizes campers into spots, and oversees maintenance.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Route 7 in Danby, turn east onto Brooklyn Rd. (Forest Road 10). Take FR 10 for approximately 3.5 miles to the Appalachian/Long Trail crossing; From Route 100 in Weston, turn west onto Landgrove Road. Take this road past Weston Commons and bear left over a bridge at Lawrence Hill Road. Turn right at 4.2 miles onto Forest Road 12. Take FR 12 for 0.4 miles and turn right onto Forest Road 10. Follow FR 10 for about 11.0 miles until you reach the AT/LT crossing. The parking area is found on the south side of the road. Parking is also available at the Big Branch Day-Use Area, 0.5 miles west of the AT/LT crossing. The trailhead from Big Branch is found across the road and about 200 feet west (left) of the parking entrance.
The campground can be accessed from multiple routes: Route 7 in Danby and Route 100 in Weston, with specific instructions provided. Parking is available near the trailhead crossing.Nearby places
Danby (3.5 miles), Weston (approximately 11 miles)
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Little Rock Pond/Green Mountain Loop has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise the campground for its clean, level campsites, the rugged yet scenic hiking trails, and the serene environment of Little Rock Pond. The presence of a caretaker is noted as a positive feature for maintaining order and assisting campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the clean and well-arranged campsites, the scenic hiking trails, and the opportunity to swim in the pond. The presence of a caretaker is noted as a helpful feature. Wildlife...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users mention potentially slick terrain on the trails, especially on boards and rocks. There is a lack of potable water and restrooms, which could be inconvenient for some campers.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring hiking poles for stability on potentially slippery trail sections. Be prepared to carry out your trash and bring your own water supply. Use the composting privy responsibly (solid waste only).
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is a popular spot during warmer months, with activities such as swimming and hiking being highlighted. Seasonal variations in trail conditions, such as slickness,...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Lovely hike in, short but covering terrain from a pleasant walk in the woods to gnarly big rocks." (Rachel Mackintosh) "Swim in the clear waters, hike around the lake or jump off the ledges for a...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Users report that the campsites are clean, level, and well-arranged. The shelter is described as rugged yet functional. There are no specific site numbers or best/worst site rankings provided.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and experiences are not addressed in the provided content.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025