Dispersed camping near Essex, New York primarily focuses on primitive sites across the Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont, located across Lake Champlain from Essex. These forest areas range in elevation from 800 to 3,000+ feet, with terrain characterized by rolling hills, dense hardwood forests, and numerous brook systems. Weather patterns can change rapidly, particularly at higher elevations where temperature differences of 15-20 degrees from valley floors are common.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Access trails directly from Lincoln Dispersed Camping sites along FR 291. One camper noted they "walked past the gate beyond the end of the road followed a trail up 500 feet or so of elevation in the foothills to the west of Mt Ellen," discovering additional camping spots and "lots of mushrooms" along the way.
Swimming in natural pools: Cool off at Warren Falls which offers both camping and recreation. Campers mention "river access" at most sites, with one noting it has a "nice brook" and "easy access." The nearby Warren Falls swimming hole provides deeper pools during summer months.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings present the best wildlife viewing opportunities. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, campers reported seeing "birds, butterflies, and bees" throughout the meadow areas. Another camper at FR207 mentioned an exciting wildlife encounter when they "woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many sites feature water access, particularly valued during summer months. At Patterson Brookside camp, campers appreciate that "mountain road lingers along the river" with "quite a few sites" available. One reviewer described the location as having a "gorgeous rock river."
Mountain views: Several dispersed camping areas offer panoramic vistas. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, campers mention "wide open views of 3 mountain ranges" and note it would be "an awesome place to see the fall colors." The setting provides opportunities for stargazing on clear nights when "the campground was very quiet except for an occasional owl hoot."
Privacy options: While some sites cluster together, others offer more seclusion. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, the "seclusion of this spot is what makes it." Another camper mentioned finding "beautiful secluded campsites - yards away from gorgeous running water" and noted that "on the weekends some people ride ATVs around here, otherwise it is a sanctuary."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires navigating unpaved roads with varying difficulty levels. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, campers warn that "FR 291 is a somewhat primitive road - lots of big puddles" where "I would want some clearance for a vehicle." Similarly, at Green Mountain National Forest FR207, visitors caution "this is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed camping areas lack basic facilities. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls, sites consist of "just a fire pit" with no other amenities. Campers report most areas are "primitive for sure" with "no trash or restrooms."
Seasonal considerations: Weather and seasonal conditions significantly impact accessibility. Winter access to Patterson Brookside camp is restricted as "this area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF." Spring brings challenges too, with one camper recommending a "backup plan during the mud season."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety awareness: When camping near streams and rivers, establish clear boundaries. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls, a camper noted the "brook water filtered fine and was tasty," but families should note that water levels and currents can change rapidly after rainfall.
Bug preparation: Multiple campers mention insects as a consideration. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, one review specifically advises to "prepare for bugs." Another camper at FR207 warns about "black fly season," recommending families "treat your skin and clothes."
Noise expectations: Some areas experience varied activity levels. At Route 100 Dispersed Camping, campers mention it's "right off of route 100," so road noise can be expected. By contrast, sites at Lincoln Dispersed Camping can be quiet except when "some people ride ATVs around here" on weekends.
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Many forest roads present challenges for larger vehicles. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 specifically warns "upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles," indicating standard RVs may struggle to reach certain sites.
Turnaround space: Forest roads often have limited maneuvering room. At Green Mountain National Forest FR25, a visitor noted they "didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily," suggesting larger vehicles should scout ahead before committing to narrow access roads.
Site selection: RVers should arrive early to secure suitable spots. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 observed that "all the sites were full" when they arrived, noting there were "6 to 8 sites, approximately" available, with some areas having campers who were "really entrenched with string lights etc."
