Dispersed camping near Bolton, Vermont requires proper preparation with temperature swings between 50-80°F in summer, often dropping to 40°F at night. Many sites lie at elevations between 1,200-2,500 feet along the western edge of the Green Mountains, creating distinct microclimates. Most access roads remain closed from November through mid-May due to snow and mud conditions.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: At Texas Falls Primitive campsites, accessible hiking trails lead to impressive cascades. "This area is wonderful, first Texas falls is a great place to stop and explore. Then, if you venture further up into the mountains you come upon the campsites with fire pits," notes one Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive campsites visitor.
Swimming holes: Natural swimming areas appear throughout the region, particularly at Warren Falls. "Great location, easy access, on a nice brook. Fire ring only, no facilities and minimal parking," explains a visitor to the Austin Brook camping area. Multiple swimming options exist along this stretch.
Mountain biking: The terrain surrounding Lincoln Dispersed Camping provides technical trail access. "Down off this back road in VT you can find some beautiful secluded campsites - Yards away from gorgeous running water. No trash or restrooms - Primitive for sure," reports a camper at Lincoln Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Natural isolation: The remote sites offer unmatched solitude during weekdays. "Pretty remote. Lots of traffic. Found a site that people with a Prius wouldn't be able to get to. Super buggy in June. No cell service. But, plenty of privacy and solitude," notes a visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR50.
River access: Many sites feature proximity to water sources for both recreation and filtering. "We had quiet and respectful neighbors. People have been careless with leaving discarded boards and other items…not good… but door is still beautiful. Gorgeous stream/river…love the river sounds," reports a Green Mountain National Forest FR25 camper.
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings occur regularly, especially in the early morning hours. "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! There is no services of any sorts at this location. Mostly local traffic. Peaceful! Gorgeous rock river," writes a visitor to Patterson Brookside camp.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed sites require specific vehicle capabilities. "I've camped here a few times in the past, and at other sites in the area. Due to flooding and the abundance of campers abusing the roads these sites are no longer accessible unless you have a lifted full-size jeep or 4-runner type vehicle," cautions a recent visitor to North Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11.
Seasonal challenges: Timing impacts site accessibility significantly. "The road into the site was scenic and beautiful. We followed the river all the way to the very end of the road up on the mountain. From there we decided on a site at the top of the mountain at the end of the long road. We quickly got rained out and went back down to one of the brookside sites," explains one camper.
Site deterioration: Rangers actively manage overused areas with increasing restrictions. "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!" advises a visitor at Patterson Brookside camp.
Tips for camping with families
Fire safety: Ensure children understand fire ring restrictions. "There seems to be a little confusion about where restricted day use ends and overnight dispersed sites begin. Some folks were camping in the picnic area. Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook," notes one camper.
Water supply: Pack multiple containers when traveling with children. "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome. Very pretty area," reports a visitor who brought proper filtration equipment.
Temperature planning: Higher elevation sites experience significant overnight cooling. "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Extremely calm and peaceful," reports an experienced cold-weather camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most free camping near Bolton requires smaller rigs. "This site has 3-5 campsites right off of route 100. This is right next to Mad River with a area to walk down into a swimming hole. Great place," reports a visitor to Route 100 Dispersed Camping about the limited pull-in spaces.
Leveling challenges: Prepare leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "We were here on a Friday & Saturday nights. Friday night had the whole place to ourselves. Saturday night all spots filled," notes an FR25 camper about the variable site quality.
Clearance requirements: Vehicle ground clearance determines site accessibility. "This would be an awesome place to see the fall colors," notes a visitor to Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, who adds "Came in on a Wednesday afternoon in late September and found several available camp sites."
