Grout Pond Recreation Area

4.67

61 reviews

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

2,339 ft

Price

$16/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Green Mountain National Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,339 ft

Price

$16/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Green Mountain National Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Grout Pond Recreation Area

$16.00 - $16.00 / night

Campsite Fees

All campsites are $16 per night, paid at the self-service pay station located near the entrance.

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

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USFS

Provider

1-802-362-2307null

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What Campers Say

4.67

Top-Rated

Based on 61 reviews

53 Google reviews

Most mentioned

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"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Grout Pond Recreation Area

43.0455, -72.9546

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

null

Best Time to Camp at Grout Pond Recreation Area

Each 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer supports paddling, fishing, camping; reviews highlight paddling and calm water use.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 12% in VT

Peak foliage called out: 'Exceptional views... especially during peak foliage.'

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round; spring conditions and fewer specific notes suggest average spring appeal.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Winter offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing but access and parking may be limited by snow.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round. Day-use areas open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Current Alerts: "First-come-first-served policies are active due to construction. Contact the Manchester Ranger Station for updates."

About Grout Pond Recreation Area

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.

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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 camping is 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.

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

AccessibilityNo specific information about accessibility for campers with disabilities is provided.

Site 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.

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 SitesSome sites require a 3/4-mile hike to access, offering isolated scenic spots. User reviews recommend avoiding sites too close to others for privacy.

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.'

HikingThe 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.

FishingFishing 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.

BoatingGrout 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

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential 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."

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire Policynull

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency Services"Contact Manchester Ranger Station for emergencies at 1-802-362-2307. Detailed emergency services specifics are missing.

Trash & RecyclingNo information is available on trash or recycling facilities.

Water FeaturesThe campground is centered around the 80-acre Grout Pond, a destination for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

Camp Host"No ranger or host is actively present; contact Manchester Ranger Station for support."

Weather at Grout Pond Recreation Area

Reviews

4.7

61 reviews

Top-Rated

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 61 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 61 reviews

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 61 reviews

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 61 reviews

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 61 reviews

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 61 reviews

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 61 reviews