Dispersed camping options near Graniteville, Vermont range from remote hiking trails to secluded river spots across multiple forest service areas. At elevations between 800-1,200 feet, this central Vermont region experiences cool summer nights with temperatures dropping into the 50s even during July and August. Many primitive sites remain accessible from May through October but close during winter months when snowfall makes forest roads impassable.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Several tent campsites near Graniteville feature riverside access with natural swimming holes. At Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road, campers can enjoy the rock-lined river. According to one visitor, "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road... Peaceful! Gorgeous rock river."
Fishing opportunities: Molly's Falls Pond State Park offers excellent fishing from the shoreline or boat. "This 411-acre lake is largely undeveloped and is an excellent spot for swimming, boating and fishing. Anglers will find a variety of fish including rainbow trout, brown trout, northern pike, pickerel, smallmouth bass and yellow perch here."
Hiking trails: Access multiple trail systems from tent camping areas near Graniteville. At Underhill State Park, campsites provide direct access to mountain trails. One camper noted, "The campground is in a perfect spot. About a .3 mile hike to the main trail to climb the mountain."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas provide good separation between sites. At Underhill State Park, "Camp spots were far enough away from one another, trees helped with privacy, and the tent site had a great area to setup the tent."
River sounds: Riverside campsites create a peaceful soundscape for sleeping. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 shared, "We were here on a Friday & Saturday nights. Friday night had the whole place to ourselves... Gorgeous stream/river…love the river sounds."
Dark skies for stargazing: The limited light pollution in this region creates exceptional night sky viewing. One Underhill State Park visitor mentioned, "Totally beautiful, private spots, pit toilets and a night sky to die for!"
Boat-in camping experience: For a more secluded option, Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites provides boat access camping. "These remote sites are so peaceful. Be sure to launch from cotton brook road if your site r11-27... It was about 30 minutes from the cotton brook launch to the site."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas have no amenities. At Patterson Brookside, "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in."
Proper waste management: Environmental impact concerns exist at multiple sites. A reviewer cautioned, "This area is being heavily use and some spots are being shut down from abuse, please be aware that you have a lot of impact."
Campsite regulations: Always verify camping is permitted. At Route 100 Dispersed Camping, regulations have changed: "This site was lovely, but signs say No Camping... Signs indicate this offshoot road where these sites are is also FR-25."
Security concerns: Some theft incidents have occurred. One FR25 camper warned, "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out. Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Tips for camping with families
Consider lean-to options: Lean-to structures provide protection from unexpected weather. A visitor to Underhill State Park explained, "No complaints here! We set our tent right up in the Lean-to and enjoyed the quiet."
Wheelbarrows available: Some state parks offer equipment to help transport gear. "They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff, and the campsites are super clean and well organized."
Quiet hours enforced: For families needing consistent sleep, established campgrounds maintain quiet times. "Quiet hours were definitely observed. Easily one of the best camp sites I've stayed at."
Plan for seasonal bugs: Vermont's summer season brings insects, particularly at water sites. At Waterbury Reservoir, a camper noted, "The bathroom is a composting toilet that you'll share with fishing spiders the size of your hand, slam the lid before use!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most primitive camping areas near Graniteville have difficult access for larger vehicles. One FR25 visitor observed, "All the sites were full when I visited (6 to 8 sites, approximately, but i didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily)."
Dirt road considerations: Access roads to many sites require careful driving. As a Patterson Brookside camper noted, "The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations, so be aware of oncoming traffic."
Seasonal closures: Winter camping is limited due to road conditions. "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF."
