Green Mountain National Forest contains multiple primitive camping areas near Fairlee, Vermont, spanning elevations from 400 to 2,400 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with winter temperatures often below freezing and summer highs reaching the 80s. Most dispersed sites remain snow-covered and inaccessible from November through April, with local roads subject to seasonal closures during mud season.
What to do
Hiking on local trails: The Green Mountain National Forest offers numerous hiking opportunities connecting to major trail systems. At Guyot Shelter, campers can access challenging routes with scenic rewards. "We got to the site, claimed our platform and hiked over to West Bond to catch a beautiful sunset," notes one visitor. The area provides access to multiple peaks with varying difficulty levels.
Water activities: Several sites sit adjacent to streams and rivers suitable for fishing, swimming, and paddling. The Tripoli Road area offers water recreation options. "The Pemigewassett offers tubing and kayaking put ins. Outfitters one exit south can provide you with transportation and rentals," writes one camper. Water levels vary seasonally, with spring offering the most consistent flow.
Wildlife viewing: The forest hosts diverse wildlife including moose, deer, and various bird species. Early mornings and evenings provide optimal viewing times. One camper at Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site mentioned "a nice pond with great views and good fishing." Many sites feature natural clearings where wildlife frequently appears at dawn and dusk.
What campers like
Mountain views: Elevated sites offer expansive vistas across multiple mountain ranges. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, "the scenic beauty of this place is amazing. 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."
Water proximity: Sites near streams provide natural soundscapes and practical water sources. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 appreciated the "gorgeous stream/river...love the river sounds." These sites fill quickly during peak season due to their popularity.
Seclusion options: The forest offers varying levels of isolation depending on site selection. "Fantastic secluded options, highly recommend getting a good spot by the river," notes a camper at Tripoli Road. Sites farther from main access roads typically provide greater privacy but require more challenging travel conditions to reach.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many sites require appropriate vehicles for safe access. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR207 cautions, "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance. Views are spectacular, choose either sunrise or sunset and you should be able to get a site to fit your needs." Several access roads become impassable during wet conditions.
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "You need to be aware that bears are in the area," warns a Tripoli Road camper. "Following the July 4, 2019 holiday, the camping area was closed after bears visited campsites and got into food that was left in the open and not secured in vehicles or bear canisters." Proper food storage in vehicles or bear canisters is essential.
Seasonal timing: Site availability varies dramatically by season. "Tripoli Road is a seasonal road, opening in late May most years and closing in autumn. Check the White Mountain National Forest Facebook page for up to date road closures/status," advises a visitor. Spring access often depends on road conditions following winter and mud season.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations with natural features that engage children. "Great mountain views, some sites right on the road, some in fields and some tucked away out of view," notes a visitor to Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11. Sites near water features typically offer additional recreational opportunities for children.
Safety considerations: Plan for limited emergency services and communication options. "Cell service is decent at nearby Russell Pond (Verizon seemed to offer better service than AT&T)," mentions a Tripoli Road visitor. Most primitive sites have no cell service, requiring preparation for potential emergencies.
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly, requiring flexible planning. Patterson Brookside camp visitors recommend packing layers regardless of season. "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in," notes a camper at Patterson Brookside camp.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most rustic camping near Fairlee accommodates smaller RVs only. "Great spot for the weekdays, hardly anyone around and got a great site right by the river," shares one camper at Tripoli Road, noting that larger vehicles would struggle on narrower forest roads. Most sites cannot accommodate RVs longer than 25 feet.
Level sites: Finding sufficiently flat parking presents challenges. A visitor to Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site mentioned, "They have a couple different spots where you can park and walk up to your site or they have sites you can pull right up next to them." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most locations.
Resource management: Plan for no hookups or services. "Small but helpful" notes a Guyot Shelter visitor, explaining the importance of self-sufficiency. Preparing for complete boondocking with adequate water, power, and waste management capabilities is essential for RV camping in these primitive areas.
