Dispersed camping near Willsboro, New York requires crossing Lake Champlain into Vermont where the Green Mountain National Forest offers numerous primitive sites. Most locations sit between 1,200-2,500 feet elevation with dramatic temperature variations between seasons. Winter temperatures regularly drop below 0°F while summer brings black fly season from mid-May through June, significantly impacting camping comfort.
What to do
Stream exploration: Walk along Patterson Brookside camp where the mountain road lingers along the river with several established sites. According to Thomas and James S., "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road. Be sure to camp at spots with established fire rings!"
Hiking access: The Lincoln Dispersed Camping area connects to multiple trail systems with elevation gains of 500+ feet. J W. reports, "Day 2 we 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. Found one more camp site."
Swimming holes: Many forest roads lead to natural swimming areas during summer months. At Austin Brook, Thomas and James S. note that "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!"
What campers like
Seasonal solitude: Winter camping offers complete privacy at some sites despite challenging conditions. Phil J. from Green Mountain National Forest FR207 shared, "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful. Woke up to two moose nearby."
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer opportunities to spot native wildlife from field sites. Tim M. describes FR207 as having "multiple fire rings / sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests."
Filterable water sources: Most primitive sites near Willsboro offer access to streams for water filtering. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls, J W. confirms "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest roads demand significant ground clearance and 4WD capability. Miccal M. warns about FR207: "This is not a place to go without at least 9 inches of ground clearance."
Site availability: No reservations exist for primitive camping near Willsboro, creating competition during peak seasons. Helen P. observed at Green Mountain National Forest FR25: "All the sites were full when I visited (6 to 8 sites, approximately)... Some people were really entrenched with string lights etc."
Changing regulations: Site closures occur periodically due to overuse or misuse. Helen notes, "There was a NFS sign along FR-25 posted asking people to clean up after themselves (litter and human waste) as there'd been complaints to the extent that they were considering closing the sites if people didn't do better."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Some sites feature proximity to water that requires supervision. At Route 100, Chris D. observed, "Main lot has plenty of parking, perfect for car camping. Pull through the trees has some spots for tents and smaller setups."
Bug protection: Black fly season impacts camping comfort significantly during late spring. Joann&WellsThePup I. advises, "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
Supply proximity: Basic resupply options exist within short drives of most sites. J W. notes about Lincoln Dispersed Camping: "Lincoln General Store is 3.5 miles away via Downingville. Some modest resupply options there."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most primitive camping areas have restricted access for larger vehicles. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, Kevin C. explains "It is an open field on the left side of the road with two or three sites on the right side of the road that are walk in sites."
Seasonal access: Spring mud season severely restricts RV access to most sites. Phil J. reports about FR207, "The top end of the road has a few mud pits and may require some ground clearance from rocks."
Security concerns: Unsupervised sites create risk for valuable equipment. Melissa M. warns, "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
