Camping spots near Fayston, Vermont range in elevation from 900 to 4,000 feet in the Green Mountain National Forest, with most dispersed sites situated along forest roads and water features. Weather patterns vary significantly with elevation, often creating temperature differences of 10-15 degrees between valley campsites and mountain locations. Forest roads typically open in mid-May after mud season subsides, with higher elevation roads sometimes remaining inaccessible until early June.
What to do
Explore reservoir paddling: Little River State Park Campground offers waterfront recreation with boat-in camping options. "The reservoir is a fun place to explore via kayak and canoe as well as by motorboat! We tend to hang at the site more than the beaches as the beaches are very small and full of children," notes one camper. Several remote sites are only accessible by water.
Discover historic ruins: The forest around Little River contains remnants of abandoned settlements. "The hiking trails are really good--actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," explains a visitor who camped there with five children.
Summit nearby peaks: Camel's Hump State Park provides access to significant elevation gain with tent platforms available at designated sites. "This is a short and sweet hike to one of the higher points in Vermont. It is a beautiful scenic (somewhat strenuous) hike to the summit," according to a reviewer who noted the camping area is about 1.5 miles into the hike.
What campers like
Scenic mountain views: Sites along Forest Road 207 in Green Mountain National Forest offer expansive vistas. "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings/sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests," reports one camper. The higher elevation locations provide panoramic perspectives that change with the seasons.
Water features: Austin Brook dispersed camping areas provide stream access at most sites. One visitor noted, "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." The sound of running water adds to the camping experience.
Seclusion at higher elevations: FR207 camping areas offer isolation on open meadows. "Great mountain views, some sites right on the road, some in fields and some tucked away out of view," writes a camper who found multiple options. The remote location means limited light pollution for stargazing opportunities.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Forest roads require appropriate vehicles. A reviewer of Lincoln Dispersed Camping noted, "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." Many forest access roads deteriorate after rainfall.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. At Green Mountain National Forest FR25, campers should prepare for self-sufficiency: "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."
Weather considerations: Temperature swings can be significant, especially at higher elevations. One FR207 visitor experienced "Winter camping at its finest. My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Extremely calm and peaceful. Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving." Conditions can change rapidly with elevation.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with built-in activities: Mount Philo State Park Campground offers family-friendly terrain with only 10 total campsites. A family camper mentioned, "We love how private the camp sites were. There are less than 20 sites total, and all sites are near walk-in paths to excellent views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks or the Green Mountains."
Consider established campgrounds: For families needing reliable facilities, Smugglers Notch State Park provides consistent amenities. "Pristine facilities, private camp sites and a beautiful area. Smuggler's Notch is close enough to Stowe to not be a hassle to drive to, but far enough away that it's quiet and remote," notes a visitor who appreciated the balance of convenience and nature.
Look for educational opportunities: Many state parks feature ranger programs. "The ranger programming was exceptional, as are the views and the nearby areas for hiking and backpacking," reported a camper at Smugglers Notch who found the structured activities valuable for children.
Tips from RVers
Plan for water access: North Beach Campground accommodates RVs with full hookups near Lake Champlain. "This has been one of our favorite campsites so far. We loved being able to walk down to the beach, as well as having full hookups. We also met the nicest people here," reports an RV camper who enjoyed the combination of amenities and location.
Consider limited turnaround space: Many forest roads lack adequate turning space for larger vehicles. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR207 advised, "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."
Reserve established sites early: The limited RV-suitable camping spots near Fayston fill quickly during peak season. One North Beach visitor recommended, "We stay every year for the Vermont City Marathon. It is a convenient bike ride down the bike path to the waterside park. Easy access to all of Burlington by bike. Reasonable price for campsites and the sites are large."
