Dispersed camping near Benson, Vermont provides access to the Green Mountain National Forest where elevations range from approximately 1,000 to 3,500 feet. Weather patterns in this region vary dramatically by season, with summer temperatures typically reaching 70-80°F and winter lows often dipping below freezing. Most dispersed sites in this area require campers to be entirely self-sufficient, as services remain limited to nonexistent throughout the forest.
What to do
Explore waterfalls and hiking trails: The area surrounding Texas Falls offers natural swimming holes and hiking opportunities. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive Campsites noted, "Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook. Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome."
Wildlife watching opportunities: Early mornings and evenings provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities. At Green Mountain National Forest FR207, one camper reported an unexpected wildlife encounter: "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
Fishing in local waterways: Several dispersed camping locations offer brook fishing. Primitive sites near water can serve as good bases for anglers. Crane Pond provides specific fishing opportunities, with one visitor describing: "There is a stone cliff near it that goes down about 12 feet and is great for fishing or jumping off of. There is also a stone area right by the water if you want to fish or just sunbathe."
What campers like
Natural water sources: Many sites feature brooks or streams nearby. A visitor to Patterson Brookside Camp described the setting as "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! Peaceful! Gorgeous rock river."
Seasonal beauty variations: Fall brings colorful foliage, while summer offers lush greenery. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, one camper observed, "The scenic beauty of this place is amazing. There was some color in the forest but most of it was still green. There are wide open views of 3 mountain ranges. There are many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road."
Night sky viewing: Remote dispersed camping locations provide excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 commented about the nighttime experience: "Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful."
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many roads to dispersed camping sites require high-clearance vehicles. A reviewer at On the Hill Dispersed Camp cautioned, "Being a primitive site, expect that it is a little rough to get into."
Fire safety measures: Always use established fire rings and check current fire restrictions. A camper at Patterson Brookside Camp advised, "Be sure to camp at spots with established fire rings!"
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR207 shared this experience: "We quickly got rained out and went back down to one of the brookside sites. This site had great tree coverage to easily set up a tarp."
Site closures and restrictions: Certain areas experience seasonal or management-related closures. A camper at Patterson Brookside Camp warned, "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
Accessibility considerations: Some family-friendly sites require less hiking or difficult driving. At Last Light on Michigan Brook, a camper advised, "The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"
Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse ecosystem provides learning experiences for children. Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 visitors reported, "Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees (they were not aggressive)."
Noise levels and privacy: Consider proximity to other campsites when with children. A visitor to Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 mentioned, "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites cannot accommodate large RVs. A reviewer at Crane Pond specifically warned, "Not fit for an RV in any capacity. The parking lot at the end of Crane Pond Road is relatively small but can fit at least 6 vehicles."
Road condition awareness: Forest roads vary in condition seasonally. A Green Mountain National Forest FR42 visitor cautioned, "The sites are small and close to the road. Being primitive sites there are no facilities."
Seasonal access limitations: Winter conditions often make roads impassable for RVs. A camper at Patterson Brookside Camp noted, "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF."
