Grout Pond Campground

We stayed at Grout Pond for a few days in the summer of 2020, and looked forward to returning in 2022. This time we again enjoyed the several hikes nearby and the privacy of camp site #17, but we ran into problems both major and middling. The middling problem was the deteriorated state of the road into our site. It bordered on impassable for our station wagon. The major problem was the broken water pump. In 2020 the pump posed no issue for us. This time, however, we (seniors) were unable to operate it in its broken condition. The young people working on campground improvements, I believe as part of Americorp, were so kind and helpful to us, and essentially made it possible for us to stay at the park by pumping water for us and giving us water they had already pumped. It took two young, strong people working together to operate the pump, and even for them it was a struggle. I hope you recognize these young people in some way for going above and beyond to help us and to take on the role of park host, filling in as best they could for the absence of a host the three days we were camping. 

We had a great time at Grout Pond. We only stayed one night, and we utilized a first come, first-serve camp site. We hadn't planned to stay at Grout Pond and in order to complete the reservation for the camp site we wanted after arriving and ensuring nobody was there, I had to download the app. Luckily, I had service in order to do so. If you're planning on making the drive and don't have a site reserved in advance I would download the app ahead of time.

As far as Grout Pond itself - it's a beautiful spot. There's a well-kept trail around the pond with walk-in sites all around it. If you're at one of the drive-in spots you can walk to the common 'beach' and relax, swim, kayak, canoe, etc. Very family friendly. I'd love to come back with a tent and perhaps some kayaks to check out the waterside sites.

My campsite was clean, quiet and peaceful. It's a beautiful pond.

Human feces and used toilet paper were scattered all over the campsite upon arrival, in some cases less than 10’ from the water. Very unpleasant. Privies are needed, and not just at the trailhead.

There was someone at my site when i got there but they didn't know about reservations. I hated for them to pack up but I did fill them in on the dispersed sites in the Forest so they headed towards Branch pond.
Site 1 is a beauty I just wish the tent platforms were wood. I still loved every moment.

Very nice

Beautiful area! The pond is lovely, and it's been great to visit multiple times to observe the changes in wildflowers, trees, and birds. If you're choosing a walk-in site, be prepared for a muddy walk (scheduled to be improved later in 2022), and byo gear for bear precautions (hang, though it can be difficult to find an appropriate limb given the density of trees and camp sites, or even better imo, a canister). A bug net was very helpful in late spring. Facilities are limited -- bring your own tp & sanitizer in case it hasn't been restocked. I use a water filter but saw others carrying large quantities. Some limited downed wood is sometimes available, but if you're planning a fire, recommend purchasing locally on way in. Be attentive -- I found a jack-in-the-pulpit very close to a bench and fire ring. Of course take all trash when you go.

What a magnificent little place. This was like the winter wonderland I always envisioned as a child. It’s so quite and peaceful. The air so crisp and fresh. It was something out of a movie! So breathtaking :) will definitely be back here again! Traveled all the way from Texas for this experience!!!!!

Great rustic camp ground. Perfect for families looking for a beautiful and quiet time.

I enjoyed the campsite and the shelter, and the location is quiet and very peaceful. The lake was beautiful. The walk-in camp sites require a bit of walking so plan accordingly.