Free dispersed camping near Charlotte, Vermont consists primarily of rustic sites within the Green Mountain National Forest, ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 feet in elevation. Most areas lie within 30-45 miles of Charlotte, with road conditions varying dramatically depending on recent weather and season. Many sites close during winter months when forest roads become impassable due to snow accumulation.
What to do
Explore mountain trails: Lincoln Dispersed Camping provides access to hiking trails in the Mt. Ellen foothills. "Day 2 we walked past the gate beyond the end of the road followed a trail up 500 feet or so of elevation in the foothills to the west of Mt Ellen. Found one more camp site. Road/path had a big blowdown, but looked like some ATVs had been up it in the last few months," notes camper J W.
Visit swimming holes: Many sites offer river access for cooling off during summer months. At Austin Brook, "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!" according to Thomas and James S.
Wildlife viewing: Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 offers opportunities to see local birds and animals. One camper reported, "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 (they were not aggressive)."
Waterfall hiking: Texas Falls provides both camping and waterfall viewing opportunities. "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," reports camper J W.
What campers like
Mountain views: Green Mountain National Forest FR207 offers elevated camping experiences. "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings / sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests," shares Tim M. Another camper adds, "Beautiful meadow campsites overlooking the valley. Firepits and tent platforms are in place although most of the sites are drive-in."
River sounds: Many campers appreciate streamside sites. At Patterson Brookside camp, "There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience." Thomas and James S. also note, "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!"
Seclusion: Lincoln Dispersed Camping provides more isolated experiences. "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," shares Mike B.
Winter options: Some areas remain accessible for cold-weather camping. "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful. Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," reports Phil J.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles. At Green Mountain National Forest FR50, one camper noted, "Found a site that people with a Prius wouldn't be able to get to." Similarly for FR 291, "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 closures: Some locations face closure due to misuse. At Green Mountain National Forest FR25, "There was a NFS sign along FR-25 posted asking people to clean up after themselves (litter and human waste) as there'd been complaints to the extent that they were considering closing the sites if people didn't do better."
Water sources: Most sites require water filtration. For Texas Falls campsites, one reviewer mentioned, "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome."
Site availability: During peak seasons, arrive early. "We were here on a Friday & Saturday nights. Friday night had the whole place to ourselves. Saturday night all spots filled," reports one camper about FR25.
Usage restrictions: Some areas marked as camping are actually day-use only. "This site was lovely, but signs say No Camping. There were a few spots with fire rings and picnic tables and would be a great place to camp though!" notes Helen P. about Route 100.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra clothes: Mountain elevation means temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night. "The most scenic sites feature meadow camping with mountain views or riverside locations with water access, though popularity varies seasonally."
Research sites thoroughly: Some roads may not accommodate family vehicles. "FR 291 Dispersed camping. FR 291 is a somewhat primitive road - lots of big puddles. I would want some clearance for a vehicle."
Bring insect protection: Summer months bring significant bug activity. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, one camper advised, "It is a beautiful setting and the first nice weekend in May. There were quite a few folks there already but worth the visit."
Consider shoulder seasons: "Super buggy in June. No cell service. But, plenty of privacy and solitude," notes one camper about FR50, suggesting early fall might be better for families.
Watch for wildlife: While exciting, proper food storage prevents unwanted visitors. "Saw no bear sign, but kept all food in car as a precaution," advises one experienced camper.
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Most forest roads accommodate smaller RVs only. Route 100 sites can handle some RVs, but one camper warns, "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."
Limited turn-around space: Several areas have narrow access roads. "The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations, so be aware of oncoming traffic," advises Miccal M.
Seasonal access: Winter months close most roads to RV traffic. "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF," notes one camper about Patterson Brookside.
Supply runs: Stock up before arrival. "Lincoln General Store is 3.5 miles away via Downingville. Some modest resupply options there," mentions J W.
