Dispersed camping near Fair Haven, Vermont includes additional sites within the Green Mountain National Forest beyond Michigan Brook Road. The region sits at the western edge of the Green Mountains with elevations ranging from 500 to 4,000 feet across the forest system. Seasonal temperature fluctuations are significant, with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and winter lows often dropping below freezing.
What to do
Paddling Lake George islands: The Lake George Islands offer a unique boat-in camping experience requiring watercraft access. "Easily my favorite campsite in the Northeast! Operated by the Green Mountain Club caretaker who lives onsite, this campsite costs only $5 per person per night," notes a Little Rock Pond visitor.
Swimming in natural ponds: Natural water features provide swimming opportunities throughout the warmer months. "The pond is surprisingly warm for its altitude and it's home to two Common Loons. Water is available at a creek and a spring nearby. There's a huge jumping rock on the far side of the pond," according to a camper at Little Rock Pond.
Fishing nearby waters: Local streams and ponds support various fish species. A camper at Glen Island Group shared: "Me the wife and our 3 children had an amazing time on our three night stay. Definitely no amenities other than an outhouse but spectacular views and pristine waters. Great fishing, lots of fun to be had on the water and quiet peaceful evening by the campfire."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many sites offer private camping experiences away from crowds. "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site! Keep it clean!" reports a visitor to Last light on Michigan Brook.
Island camping experiences: Lake George provides multiple island camping options accessible by boat. "We had a great spot on Long Island! Beautiful view, chill atmosphere, easy boat parking on the slip. Will come back!" shares a Long Island Group camper.
Proximity to Killington: Some dispersed sites serve as convenient baselines for exploring nearby attractions. "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. I liked this camping area for it's accessibility to Killington, VT and it was of course free!" notes a Michigan Brook camper.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Unpaved access roads can become challenging during certain seasons. A camper at Michigan Brook Road Camping advised: "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!"
Winter camping limitations: Most dispersed sites become inaccessible during winter months. "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. I attempted to bring my car and was stuck overnight but was able to dig myself out the next morning," warns a Michigan Road camper.
No cell service at most sites: Communication capabilities are limited at remote locations. "PLEASE NOTE: THIS LOCATION DOES NOT PROVIDE CELL PHONE SERVICE OR WIFI CONNECTION. However, if you walk to the end of upper Michigan Brook road you will have cell phone service and a gas station along with a United States Post Office as well as a general store."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple riverside spots available: Several sites feature proximity to water sources. "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! The one before the bridge that's right next to the river is the best one!!" recommends a Michigan Brook visitor.
Exploring options: Scout available sites before committing. "I found most of the spots to be on the road before the GPS marker. Few nice ones near the creek. I stayed at one on top of a hill, lots of space at mine," notes a Michigan Road camper.
Pack appropriate supplies: General stores exist but require travel from most sites. "If you walk to the end of upper Michigan Brook road you will have cell phone service and a gas station along with a United States Post Office as well as a general store which also serves as a restaurant. There you can find just about anything. Gas, firewood, water/drinks and a restroom."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: RV access varies significantly between sites. "Definitely need a decent sized boat with a gas outboard to get there, but wow. What an experience," shares a Glen Island camper about water-access-only sites.
Road clearance concerns: Many forest roads require vehicles with adequate ground clearance. "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. The area is big enough to bring an RV if you can get it down the dirt road," advises a Michigan Brook visitor.
Campsite selection: Prioritize sites with level ground and adequate space for larger vehicles. "Campsites have not been maintained in probably 20 years at least. There were no leveled space whatsoever," reports a Lake George Islands camper, highlighting the importance of site selection for comfortable RV camping.
