Dispersed camping in Green Mountain National Forest provides the primary options for free camping near Addison, Vermont. The forest spans over 400,000 acres with elevations ranging from 900 to 4,000 feet, creating diverse camping environments from riverside sites to mountain meadows. Winter access to many sites is restricted due to snow conditions, with most areas becoming accessible from late May through October.
What to do
Hike Clark Brook Trail: Close to Green Mountain National Forest FR207, this 3-mile trail connects with the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail. "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," notes Tim M. who visited the meadow sites.
Winter camping: The area offers unique winter camping opportunities when crowds disappear. At FR207, a camper experienced solitude and wildlife: "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 the morning I was leaving."
Swimming at Warren Falls: Located near Austin Brook, Warren Falls offers natural swimming holes. "Just south of Warren Falls trail head and parking lot and just north of Green Mountains National Forest Road #25, is a small camping and parking area wedged between the Mad River and Vermont Route 100," explains Michelle R.
What campers like
Mountain panoramas: Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 offers exceptional vista points. One camper described, "The scenic beauty of this place is amazing. There are wide open views of 3 mountain ranges. There are many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road. Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees."
Riverside tranquility: Many campers appreciate sites near running water. At Patterson Brookside camp, "There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience. The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations, so be aware of oncoming traffic."
Wildlife encounters: The secluded nature of these camping areas provides opportunities for wildlife viewing. As one camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 noted, "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," highlighting the potential for memorable wildlife sightings.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires appropriate vehicles. A reviewer at Lincoln Dispersed Camping stated, "FR 291 is a somewhat primitive road - lots of big puddles. I would want some clearance for a vehicle. Our Toyota Highlander made it easily."
Site closures: Some areas have been restricted due to overuse. At Patterson Brookside, "This area is being heavily use and some spots are being shut down from abuse, please be aware that you have a lot of impact, and that impact can be positive or negative. Choose Positive!"
Seasonal challenges: Mud season and insects affect camping comfort. For FR207, a camper advised, "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
Water requirements: No drinking water is available at these sites. One visitor to Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls suggested, "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty," indicating that water filtration equipment is essential when staying at these primitive sites.
Tips for camping with families
Meadow camping: Sites at Green Mountain National Forest FR50 offer more open space for families. A reviewer noted it was "Pretty remote. Lots of traffic. Found a site that people with a Prius wouldn't be able to get to."
Swimming access: Sites near water features provide built-in recreation. At Austin Brook, Thomas and James S. observed, "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!"
Security awareness: Keep valuables secure when camping. A FR25 camper warned, "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out. Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Most dispersed sites are not suitable for large RVs. For Green Mountain National Forest FR207, a reviewer cautioned, "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance."
Site selection for smaller RVs: Smaller, high-clearance RVs can access some areas. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, "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," providing more room for smaller recreational vehicles.
Limited amenities: No hookups or dump stations exist at these sites. Patterson Brookside camp has "no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in," which is typical of all dispersed camping near Addison.
