Green Mountain National Forest offers numerous rustic camping sites near Barnard, Vermont throughout all seasons. Primitive camping areas consist of small clearings with fire rings and minimal amenities distributed along various forest roads and waterways. The region features elevation changes from 1,200 to 2,800 feet, with higher sites providing views across Vermont's mountain ranges. Winter camping remains popular among experienced outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude during snow season when many access roads close.
What to do
Hiking to swimming holes: Multiple dispersed camping areas provide access to natural swimming spots during summer months. At Austin Brook, campers can enjoy Warren Falls, a popular swimming destination. "Beautiful brookside. There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams," notes one camper, adding that well-established fire rings enhance the experience.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Fall and winter camping offer unique wildlife observation opportunities. The winter months can be particularly rewarding for patient observers. At the FR207 meadow sites, one camper reported: "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving" during a winter camping trip, noting they "had the entire area to myself" with exceptional night skies.
Foraging activities: Woodland areas around Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 offer seasonal foraging opportunities. "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," reports one visitor who noted the bees weren't aggressive despite their abundance.
What campers like
Secluded brook sites: Many campers prefer riverside locations for the natural white noise and cooling effect. At Last light on Michigan Brook, visitors appreciate the isolation: "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site! Keep it clean!"
Winter solitude: Cold-weather camping provides a completely different experience than peak summer months. FR207 receives particular praise for winter camping: "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful," notes a winter visitor who spotted moose during their stay.
Open meadow settings: Dispersed sites offering open views rather than dense forest coverage receive consistent praise. One visitor to Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 noted: "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot. We were fortunate to have perfect weather for our stay. This would be an awesome place to see the fall colors."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest roads require appropriate clearance and sometimes 4WD capabilities. At Green Mountain National Forest FR207, a camper warns: "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance. Views are spectacular, choose either sunrise or sunset and you should be able to get a site to fit your needs."
Seasonal closures: Winter weather often limits access to higher elevation sites. One reviewer notes about Patterson Brookside camp: "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF," so winter planning requires checking current forest service closure information.
Site deterioration concerns: Several areas face sustainability issues from overuse. A Patterson Brookside camp visitor observed: "This area is being heavily used 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!"
Tips for camping with families
Introductory sites: Beginners should consider the more accessible locations. On the Hill Dispersed Camp provides a good starting point: "I've camped here a few times, it a nice size primitive site for a small group. Being a primitive site, expect that it is a little rough to get into. The only thing you will find in this clearing is a fire ring."
Water access importance: Sites with safe stream access work well for family activities. At FR25 dispersed camping, a reviewer observed: "Beautiful sites on the River" while noting the area's occasional moisture issues during wet seasons.
Established facilities: For families needing minimal facilities, Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites offers more amenities than most dispersed sites: "Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome. Very pretty area," notes a visitor who found several simple fire-pit-only sites along the brook.
Tips from RVers
Limited suitable locations: Most dispersed sites accommodate tents better than RVs. At FR207, "Great mountain views, some sites right on the road, some in fields and some tucked away out of view. The top end of the road has a few mud pits and may require some ground clearance from rocks."
Turnaround space: Forest roads often lack adequate turnaround areas for larger vehicles. One visitor checking FR25 noted: "I didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily."
Security considerations: Unattended items may disappear at accessible roadside locations. One FR25 camper warned: "Make sure to lock your valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
