Best Dispersed Camping near Belvidere Center, VT
Dispersed camping in the Green Mountain National Forest provides several free options near Belvidere Center, Vermont. Four main dispersed camping areas serve this region: Austin Brook, Green Mountain National Forest FR25, Lincoln Dispersed Camping, and Route 100 Dispersed Camping. Most sites are situated along rivers or streams, offering primitive camping experiences with minimal facilities. The Austin Brook area features 4-6 riverside sites in a cul-de-sac arrangement, while FR25 contains 6-8 scattered sites along a small stream.
Access varies significantly between sites. FR25 and Austin Brook are accessible via drive-in routes suitable for most vehicles, though some areas may require higher clearance during wet conditions. Lincoln Dispersed Camping requires a hike-in approach and is located off Forest Road 291, which features large puddles and rough terrain. Route 100 sites are easily accessible directly off the highway but have conflicting status reports. Recent visitors note that despite having fire rings and picnic tables, Route 100 displays "No Camping" signs as of 2021, though enforcement appears inconsistent. None of these areas provide drinking water, toilets, or trash service.
The camping experience varies across these primitive sites. Austin Brook receives positive reviews for its river access and relative seclusion. FR25 campsites are popular but face conservation challenges. According to one visitor, "There was a NFS sign along FR-25 posted asking people to clean up after themselves as there'd been complaints to the extent that they were considering closing the sites if people didn't do better." Lincoln Dispersed Camping offers the most remote experience with a visitor noting, "Down off this back road in VT you can find some beautiful secluded campsites yards away from gorgeous running water." Wildlife sightings are common, though campers should practice proper food storage as bears may be present in the area.
