Dispersed camping sites dot the landscape around Fayston, Vermont in Green Mountain National Forest, providing primitive overnight stays at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,000 feet. Vermont's climate creates a distinct camping season from May through October, with July and August averaging daytime temperatures in the 70s. Forest roads throughout the region vary significantly in condition, with several requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Several dispersed camping areas offer direct access to hiking trails. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, campers can explore the foothills near Mt. Ellen. "Day 2 we walked past the gate beyond the end of the road followed a trail up 500 feet or so of elevation in the foothills to the west of Mt Ellen. Found one more camp site," reports one visitor. The area features abundant wildlife and mushroom viewing opportunities during summer months.
Swimming holes: Warren Falls provides natural swimming spots during summer months. Route 100 Dispersed Camping offers quick access to swimming. "This site has 3-5 campsites right off of route 100. This is right next to Mad River with a area to walk down into a swimming hole," notes one camper. Most swimming holes lack lifeguards or facilities, requiring appropriate water safety precautions.
Waterfall viewing: The Texas Falls area includes dramatic cascades with viewing platforms. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive campsites, campers can explore the falls before reaching campsites. "This area is wonderful, first Texas falls it a great place to stop and explore. Then, if you venture further up into the mountains you come upon the campsites with fire pits," writes one visitor.
What campers like
Mountain views: The elevated meadow sites provide panoramic vistas of Vermont mountains. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, visitors appreciate the scenic setting. "The scenic beauty of this place is amazing. There was some color in the forest but most of it was still green. There are wide open views of 3 mountain ranges," notes one camper. Morning fog often fills valleys below meadow campsites during early summer.
Riverside settings: Many free camping sites near Fayston feature locations beside brooks and streams. The Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road provides water access at multiple sites. "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," reports one visitor. Riverside sites often provide natural white noise for sleeping.
Solitude and quiet: Many dispersed sites offer peace away from developed areas. At Green Mountain National Forest FR50, campers find seclusion. "Pretty remote. Lots of traffic. Found a site that people with a Prius wouldn't be able to get to. Super buggy in June. No cell service. But, plenty of privacy and solitude," notes one visitor. Most sites become quieter midweek compared to weekends.
What you should know
Access road conditions: Many forest roads require substantial ground clearance. At FR207, campers note difficult terrain: "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance." Some roads become impassable during spring mud season or after heavy rains. Call ranger stations for current road conditions before attempting access with low-clearance vehicles.
Site closures: Overuse has led to restrictions at several locations. Patterson Brookside camp reports: "This area is being heavily use and some spots are being shut down from abuse." North Green Mountain Camp faces similar issues: "Rangers have already started to move boulders into place to block off some of the other sites." Closures often occur without advance notice, requiring backup camping plans.
Filtering water: No potable water exists at these sites, requiring campers to filter from streams. "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty," notes one Texas Falls visitor. Most streams run year-round but may require longer walks during dry periods. Standard backpacking filters work effectively on local water sources.
Tips for camping with families
Best accessible sites: Some areas provide easier access for families with young children. Near Warren Falls, "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe various Vermont wildlife from safe distances. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, "There are many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road. Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees (they were not aggressive)."
Safety considerations: Many sites lack cell service and immediate emergency access. "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF," notes a Patterson Brookside camper. Families should pack first aid supplies and emergency contact plans when visiting remote sites.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. Limited turning areas create challenges for larger vehicles. "The road into the site was scenic and beautiful. We followed the river all the way to the very end of the road up on the mountain," reports one camper, but notes accessibility issues.
Ground leveling needs: Few sites offer naturally level parking for recreational vehicles. Bring adequate leveling blocks and stabilizers for overnight comfort. Most sites have uneven, natural surfaces requiring preparation.
Seasonal considerations: Winter access becomes impossible at higher elevation sites. "Winter camping at its finest. My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself," reports one winter visitor to FR207, though many roads close seasonally.
