Dispersed camping near Cambridge, Vermont centers primarily around the Green Mountain National Forest, where elevation ranges from 1,000 to 3,500 feet. These backcountry camping areas experience seasonal access challenges with roads commonly closing from late October through mid-May due to snow accumulation. Temperatures at higher elevation sites can drop 10-15 degrees below valley readings, requiring additional preparation even during summer months.
What to do
Explore swimming holes: At Austin Brook, you'll find natural water features worth visiting. "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams," notes Thomas and James S. Another visitor mentions it has "nice brooks" and "easy access, on a nice brook."
Hike nearby trails: The Clark Brook Trail near Green Mountain National Forest FR207 offers wilderness hiking opportunities. Tim M. reports: "Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT." Winter visitors can also enjoy the trails, with one camper noting they "woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
Wildlife viewing: Free dispersed camping areas provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. At FR207, Phil J. experienced "winter camping at its finest" where he "woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving." Bird watching is also popular at many sites, with campers reporting numerous sightings of woodland species during spring migration.
What campers like
Mountain views: The elevated meadow sites offer panoramic vistas of surrounding mountains. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, Kevin C. appreciates the "wide open views of 3 mountain ranges" and observes there are "many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road. Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees."
Water access: Many primitive camping locations feature riverside or stream-adjacent sites. At Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road, campers enjoy the proximity to water. Thomas and James S. describe the experience: "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road... Gorgeous rock river."
Solitude: The remote nature of these sites appeals to those seeking quiet camping experiences. Kevin C. notes that Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 was "very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot." Another camper describes their experience at FR207 as having "plenty of privacy and solitude."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest roads require vehicles with adequate ground clearance. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, J W. advises "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 closure risks: Some areas face potential closure due to visitor misuse. Miccal M. warns about North Green Mountain Camp: "Rangers have already started to move boulders into place to block off some of the other sites" and predicts "It won't be long before the Rangers close this area down due to abuse."
Off-season conditions: Winter access is significantly limited. At Patterson Brookside, Miccal M. informs visitors that "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF." Several campgrounds have similar restrictions, with roads becoming impassable from late fall through spring.
Designated sites only: Camp only in established areas with fire rings. Thomas and James S. advise at Patterson Brookside: "Be sure to camp at spots with established fire rings!" This helps minimize environmental impact and complies with forest regulations.
Tips for camping with families
Bring sufficient water: No potable water exists at these sites, so carrying enough for all family members is essential. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites, J W. notes "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty," indicating filtering equipment is necessary if not bringing all your water.
Pack out all waste: With minimal facilities, proper waste management is crucial. J W. observed at Texas Falls that sites "were well used with some litter. We packed out what we could find," highlighting the importance of teaching children proper outdoor ethics.
Consider weather variability: Mountain weather can change rapidly, requiring proper gear. Kevin C. mentions being "fortunate to have perfect weather for our stay" at Green Mountain Camp, but conditions can vary dramatically from day to night and season to season.
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential during warmer months. Jeff N. warns about FR50 being "Super buggy in June," while Joann & Wells the Pup advise to "treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Forest roads may present challenges for larger vehicles. At Green Mountain National Forest FR50, Jeff N. found "a site that people with a Prius wouldn't be able to get to," indicating high-clearance vehicles fare better.
Site selection: For RVs, meadow sites generally offer easier access than forested areas. At FR207, Lily D. reports "Beautiful meadow campsites overlooking the valley" and mentions that "most of the sites are drive-in," making them potentially suitable for smaller RVs and camper vans.
Seasonal timing: Mud season presents particular challenges for heavier vehicles. Joann & Wells the Pup advise visitors to "make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season," as spring thaw can make roads temporarily impassable even for well-equipped vehicles.
