Dispersed camping near Ferrisburg, Vermont is concentrated primarily in sections of the Green Mountain National Forest that range from 1,500 to 2,500 feet in elevation. Winter closures affect several areas from November through April, with mud season creating access challenges in early spring. During summer months, forest camping options typically experience temperatures 5-10 degrees cooler than Ferrisburg proper, with notable temperature drops at night even during July and August.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 3.5 miles from Texas Falls campsites. The Texas Falls recreation area features multiple cascades accessible via short trails. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive campsites notes, "Texas falls is a great place to stop and explore. Then, if you venture further up into the mountains you come upon the campsites with fire pits and if your lucky you can get one on the river."
Hiking to the Appalachian Trail: 3-mile connector trail available. Near FR207, you can access the Appalachian Trail system. "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," writes a visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR207.
Wildlife observation: moose sightings possible in winter. The less trafficked areas become excellent wildlife viewing locations during cooler months. "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," reports a winter camper at FR207.
What campers like
Mountain views from elevated campsites: The higher elevation sites offer panoramic vistas. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, one camper describes, "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."
Riverside camping with water access: Many sites feature streams or rivers for both ambiance and practical use. A visitor to Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road shares, "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."
Solitude in less accessible sites: Campers appreciate the privacy found in more remote locations. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, one visitor notes, "Down off this back road in VT you can find some beautiful secluded campsites - Yards away from gorgeous running water. No trash or restrooms - Primitive for sure. The seclusion of this spot is what makes it."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly by site: Some areas require specialized vehicles. A camper at North Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 warns, "Due to flooding and the abundance of campers abusing the roads these sites are no longer accessible unless you have a lifted full-size jeep or 4-runner type vehicle. I drive a Subaru Wilderness and have been able to access all of the sites for years, this year I cannot."
Some day-use areas mistaken for camping: Not all fire rings indicate legal camping spots. A reviewer at Route 100 Dispersed Camping explains, "This site was lovely, but signs say No Camping. There were a few spots with fire rings and picnic tables and would be a great place to camp though!"
Changing access due to overuse: Free camping near Ferrisburg is facing limitations. A camper notes, "Please be aware that you have a lot of impact, and that impact can be positive or negative. Choose Positive!" Another adds, "It won't be long before the Rangers close this area down due to abuse. Please stay away."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety planning: multiple swimming holes available: Children can enjoy natural water features with proper supervision. At Austin Brook, a camper shares, "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!"
Expect nighttime wildlife sounds: The forests near Ferrisburg come alive at night. One camper reports, "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot."
Pack for unexpected weather swings: Temperature variations can be significant. A visitor notes, "We were fortunate to have perfect weather for our stay. This would be an awesome place to see the fall colors."
Tips from RVers
High clearance required for most dispersed sites: Standard RVs will face access challenges. A visitor to FR 291 reports, "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."
Limited turnaround space: Many forest roads have few places to turn larger vehicles. At FR207, a reviewer cautions, "Road is short dead ends with a decent amount of turn around space."
Brookside parking limitations: Areas along streams often have confined parking. "Main lot has plenty of parking, perfect for car camping. Pull through the trees has some spots for tents and smaller setups. Entrance and exit are a little steep and tricky in the winter."
