Dispersed camping near Florence, Vermont offers primitive sites throughout Green Mountain National Forest with most locations situated at elevations between 1,200-2,500 feet. The region contains numerous Forest Service roads that provide access to camping areas, with conditions varying significantly by season. Mud season typically runs from late March through early May, creating challenging access conditions on many forest roads.
What to do
Water activities at Austin Brook: Multiple sites along Austin Brook provide stream access for cooling off during summer camping trips. Camper Thomas and James S. notes, "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings."
Hiking the Clark Brook Trail: From Green Mountain National Forest FR207, access a 3-mile trail connecting with the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail. According to Tim M., "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT."
Winter camping exploration: The area offers year-round camping opportunities in designated areas that remain accessible. Phil J. shares his experience at FR207: "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful. Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
Wildlife observation: Many camping areas provide opportunities for spotting local wildlife, including moose, deer, and various bird species. The open meadows and river corridors are especially good locations for dawn and dusk wildlife viewing.
What campers like
Mountain views from elevated sites: Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 offers panoramic vistas across multiple mountain ranges. Kevin C. 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 options: Many visitors appreciate the water access at Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road, where Thomas and James S. report: "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road. Be sure to camp at spots with established fire rings!"
Secluded camping locations: Several forest roads provide access to more remote sites. Joann&WellsThePup I. comments on FR207, "About 12 sites off National Forest Road 71. Beautiful area and very secluded. All have fire rings but that's about it."
Seasonal natural features: The region offers distinct camping experiences across seasons, from winter solitude to summer swimming spots. One camper noted their site had "wild apple trees" while another mentioned the area was "super buggy in June" but provided "plenty of privacy and solitude."
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many forest roads require higher clearance vehicles, especially after rainfall. On FR207, Amanda cautions: "Also, make sure your car has a bit of clearance as some sports have dips in the ground."
Site preservation concerns: Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites and other areas face increasing management interventions. J W. reports: "There seems to be a little confusion about where restricted day use ends and overnight dispersed sites begin. Some folks were camping in the picnic area."
Basic amenities only: Most sites offer only fire rings with no other facilities. Miccal M. describes Last Light on Michigan Brook: "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 and if your lucky you can get one on the river."
Winter road closures: Many forest roads close seasonally due to snow conditions. As noted by one regular camper, "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF."
Cell service limitations: Network coverage varies significantly throughout the region. Tim M. reports "2 bars USCellular LTE" at FR207 meadows, while Jeff N. noted "No cell service" at FR50.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for convenience: For family camping, choose sites with easier access. On the Hill Dispersed Camp offers accessible options with minimal hiking required. Miccal M. says, "I've camped here a few times, it a nice size primitive site for a small group. Being a primitive site, expect that it is a little rough to get into."
Water access safety: Families should exercise caution at waterside camping areas, particularly during high water periods or at swimming holes with strong currents. Multiple reviewers note the presence of streams and brooks near camping areas.
Toilets at select locations: When camping with young children, consider sites near Texas Falls which offer waterless toilets a short walk away. J W. comments, "Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome. Very pretty area."
Noise considerations: Some camping areas provide better sound insulation from road noise. Kevin C. notes, "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for RVs: Most dispersed sites in this area accommodate smaller RVs only. Last Light on Michigan Brook and similar locations have limited turning space. Thomas and James S. advise, "The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"
Access road conditions: RVers should check forest road conditions before attempting access, particularly during spring mud season or after heavy rainfall. Phil J. notes about FR207, "The top end of the road has a few mud pits and may require some ground clearance from rocks."
Campsite leveling challenges: Finding level spots can be difficult in some areas. Tim M. reports about camping near Austin Brook: "I had trouble finding a level spot. Minimal ATT reception but overall pretty area."
