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Best Dispersed Camping near Chittenden, VT

47 Reviews

Green Mountain National Forest provides numerous primitive camping opportunities near Chittenden, Vermont, with several established dispersed areas along forest roads. FR207 offers field sites with mountain views but requires at least 9 inches of ground clearance to navigate rough terrain and mud pits. Texas Falls area features primitive sites along a brook past the day-use area with only fire pits but convenient access to waterless toilets. Patterson Brookside camp along West Hill Road provides riverside spots that vary between drive-in and walk-in access.

Most dispersed sites in this area consist of only a fire ring with no amenities—no electricity, toilets, trash service or cell coverage. Visitors must pack out everything they bring in. Several areas have experienced heavy use leading to restrictions, with one camper noting that "some spots are being shut down from abuse" and rangers have "started to move boulders into place to block off some sites." High clearance vehicles are increasingly necessary for access, particularly at sites along Town Road 11 where recent flooding has made conditions challenging for standard vehicles. Free camping follows standard National Forest regulations, though some areas close during winter due to snow.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Chittenden, Vermont (26)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Chittenden, VT

43 Photos of 26 Chittenden Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Chittenden, VT

47 Reviews of 26 Chittenden Campgrounds

  • Miccal M.
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road

    This is a wonderful place to camp

    There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience.  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.  Some of the sites are drive in, some are walk in, but all are primitive. 

    There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area.  Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in.

    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!

    This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2023

    Green Mountain National Forest FR207

    NFR 207 Meadows, with great views!

    In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings / sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests. 

    Upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles.
    Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT.
    2 bars USCellular LTE.

  • Thomas and James S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Austin Brook

    Nice sites

    Smaller area roughly 1-6 sites. When driving in on the right there’s a culdesac type set up of sites. Pretty sure these sites all have river access. Road is short dead ends with a decent amount of turn around space.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites

    Nice setting, simple fire pit only sites

    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. They were well used with some litter. We packed out what we could find. There are posted signs on the opposite bank so we stayed on our side. Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome. Very pretty area.

  • Michelle R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2018

    Austin Brook

    Green Mountain National Forest Warren Falls

    Just south of Warren Falls trail head and parking lot and just north of Green Mountains National Forest Road #25, is a small (4-5 sites, 3 picnic tables) camping and parking area wedged between the Mad River and Vermont Route 100. Grassy and Rocky sites, 4 fire rings, 3 porta-potties, and stream side (river) camping close to trails, Warren Falls swimming hole, the Lincoln Gap Road and hiking, and the "famous" Warren General Store, and covered bridge. There aren't any reservation or use instructions or signs posted.

  • Chris D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 10, 2024

    Route 100 Dispersed Camping

    Great little spot right off RT-100

    I was looking for the Austin Brook campsite north of this one, but someone on here gave directions to this site, which turns out has its own page on here. Right off the road, a small handful of camp sites, some picnic tables, presumably some fire rings although with snow coverage I didn’t see any. Main lot has plenty of parking, perfect for car camping. Pull through the trees has some spots for tents and smaller setups. Entrance and exit are a little steep and tricky in the winter, lot wasn’t plowed so AWD/4x4 and good ground clearance are recommended.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11

    Beautiful View Real VT setting but can be a little crowded

    It is a beautiful setting and the first nice weekend in May. There were quite a few folks there already but worth the visit. 

    It is old Vermont farm land that the team of the US National Forest must manage. They have kept the clearing clear and access is pretty good. We are so lucky to have access like this for all of us to enjoy.

  • Joann&WellsThePup I.
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Green Mountain National Forest FR207

    NF-71

    About 12 sites off National Forest Road 71. Beautiful area and very secluded. All have fire rings but that’s about it. Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season

  • Miccal M.
    Jun. 2, 2021

    Austin Brook

    Great Primative Location

    I didn't get the chance to camp here, it was full when I drove through looking for a place. So I came back later in the weekend for pictures. Great location, easy access, on a nice brook. Fire ring only, no facilities and minimal parking.

Guide to Chittenden

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Chittenden, Vermont, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of sites, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Chittenden, Vermont

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Texas Falls

  • The Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive campsites provide a peaceful setting with only basic amenities, allowing for a true back-to-nature experience.
  • Campers can enjoy the picturesque brook and the tranquility of the area, making it a great spot for relaxation and reflection.
  • Be mindful of the environment and clean up after yourself to help preserve the beauty of this stunning location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is dispersed camping allowed at Chittenden Reservoir?

Dispersed camping is allowed in several areas near Chittenden Reservoir within the Green Mountain National Forest. Green Mountain National Forest FR207 offers approximately 12 dispersed sites in meadow areas, with upper meadows accessible via 4WD/high clearance vehicles. The sites provide beautiful views of surrounding hills. Another option is Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, situated on former Vermont farmland with maintained clearings and decent access. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and be aware that road conditions can change seasonally, particularly during mud season.

Are permits required for dispersed camping at Chittenden Reservoir?

No permits are typically required for dispersed camping at Chittenden Reservoir in the Green Mountain National Forest, but standard dispersed camping regulations apply. Areas like Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road and Texas Falls Primitive campsites follow the free, first-come, first-served system common in National Forests. While permits aren't needed, camping is restricted to established sites with existing fire rings. Remember to camp at least 200 feet from water sources, stay no longer than 14 days, and properly dispose of all waste. Always check current regulations before your trip as rules may change seasonally.

What amenities are available for dispersed camping at Chittenden Reservoir?

Dispersed camping at Chittenden Reservoir is primitive with minimal amenities. Most sites like Green Mountain National Forest FR42 Dispersed Site offer only fire rings with no facilities. Austin Brook provides slightly more, with some sites featuring fire rings, picnic tables, and porta-potties in certain areas, plus the bonus of stream/river access. Cell service varies by location—some areas report 2 bars of USCellular LTE. Come prepared with your own water, food, and waste disposal equipment, as most dispersed sites have no potable water, toilets, trash collection, or hookups.

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