Green Mountain National Forest provides dispersed camping opportunities in the Danby, Vermont region, where elevations range from 1,000 to 3,000 feet. Campers access primitive sites via forest roads or hiking trails throughout this section of the 400,000-acre national forest. Winter camping requires additional preparation, as many access roads remain unplowed and temperatures can drop below zero.
What to do
Hike to swimming spots: At Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters, visitors can enjoy water activities after the hike in. "The pond is surprisingly warm for its altitude and it's home to two Common Loons," notes camper Meredith C.
Explore nearby trails: Stratton Pond Shelter sits at the intersection of multiple long-distance trails. "Great location at the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail," reports Miccal M., who camped there in February. "The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail."
Fish mountain streams: Several sites along Michigan Brook offer access to small stream fishing. Many campers report multiple spots suitable for setting up near water features. "Nice little spots to hangout all day. Lots to see, and explore," writes Marcus about the Michigan Brook Road area.
What campers like
Solitude during weekdays: Most backcountry tent sites near Danby remain relatively uncrowded except during summer weekends. "The shelter was fairly basic, but this stop stood out because of a brand new privvy, large tenting areas, and a swimming hole and consistent water just a bit further down the trail," Justin P. shares about Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter.
Cost-effective options: Free camping areas provide budget-friendly alternatives. "This dispersed camping area is down Upper Michigan Road in Pittsfield Vermont. Drive through the residential neighborhood until you hit a dirt road and see National Forest signs," reports Maggie F. about Michigan Brook, noting it was "of course free!"
Spacious sites: Many tent camping locations near Danby offer ample room for multiple tents. "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!" explains Thomas and James S. about the Last Light on Michigan Brook site.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest roads accessing tent sites have rough conditions. "Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" warns Thomas and James S. about Michigan Brook Road Camping.
Winter accessibility: Snow significantly impacts access to dispersed camping areas. "The main road to the parking lot is plowed and sanded. However if you would like to continue down the service road during winter months I would highly recommend snowshoes or a snowmobile," advises Keegz M., who got stuck overnight in winter conditions.
Cell service limitations: Most areas lack reliable communications. "PLEASE NOTE: THIS LOCATION DOES NOT PROVIDE CELL PHONE SERVICE OR WIFI CONNECTION," cautions Keegz M., adding that service is available if you "walk to the end of upper Michigan Brook road."
Tips for camping with families
Water sources: Reliable drinking water can be scarce at primitive sites. Visitors to Stony Brook Shelter note: "There was no water on the shelter, but there was plenty of water at Stony Brook / Mink Brook a bit further northbound."
Shelter options: Some locations offer covered structures for inclement weather. At Stratton Pond Shelter, campers find good infrastructure: "There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter," reports Miccal M.
Wildlife awareness: Raccoons can be problematic at some sites. Multiple campers mention encounters with wildlife, and proper food storage is essential as bears are present in the Green Mountain National Forest. Stony Brook Shelter provides "a bear box here, which I hadn't seen at other shelters along the AT in Vermont."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: RVers should carefully research forest road conditions before attempting access. "Beware that in Spring the road gets muddy and quite rutted, I would not recommend driving down there with a car that is low to the ground," cautions Maggie F. about Michigan Brook.
Limited amenities: Most tent camping areas near Danby lack hookups or facilities for larger vehicles. "The area is big enough to bring an RV if you can get it down the dirt road," notes one reviewer, but most sites are better suited for tents or small trailers.
Access points: Several dispersed camping areas have multiple potential sites along a single road. "Drive in about a mile after the parking lot!! Can use car to get in! There's 3 camping spots. 1 before the bridge and 2 after the bridge!" advises TRUCKER C. about Michigan Brook.
