Green Mountain National Forest dispersed camping near Granville, Vermont offers remote wilderness experiences within designated national forest areas. Elevation ranges from 1,200 to 2,500 feet with the high meadow sites providing sweeping panoramic views. The region receives about 45 inches of rainfall annually, creating abundant streams and brooks throughout the camping areas that often run alongside dispersed sites.
What to do
Hike the Clark Brook Trail: Access this 3-mile trail connecting to the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail from Green Mountain National Forest FR207. "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," notes camper Tim M., who also mentions that "Upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles."
Explore mountain foothills: The area west of Mt. Ellen offers excellent day hiking options. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, campers can access higher elevation terrain. "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," shares J W.
Visit swimming holes: The Mad River and nearby brooks feature natural swimming spots. "This is right next to Mad River with a area to walk down into a swimming hole," reports Margaret E. about Route 100 Dispersed Camping. During summer months, these swimming areas provide relief from warm temperatures.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many campers appreciate the varied options for privacy. At Austin Brook, "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings," according to Thomas and James S. The area offers both roadside and more secluded spots.
Mountain views from meadow sites: The high meadow locations provide memorable vistas. "Beautiful meadow campsites overlooking the valley. Firepits and tent platforms are in place although most of the sites are drive-in," reports Lily D. about Town Highway 11 on W Hill Road. These elevated sites offer sunrise and sunset views.
Water features and sounds: Camping alongside brooks and streams is highly rated. J W. notes about Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites, "Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook... Brook water filtered fine and was tasty."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements vary by site: Some areas have become increasingly difficult to access. "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," warns Miccal M. about North Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11.
Pack out all waste: Proper waste management is critical for site preservation. "There is 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," reports Helen P.
Limited facilities: Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road offers beautiful riverside sites but "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in," according to Miccal M. Most sites across the area have similar limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Choose riverside sites: For kids, water access provides natural entertainment. "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road... Gorgeous rock river," share Thomas and James S. about Patterson Brookside camp, making it suitable for families seeking natural features.
Beware of seasonal challenges: Weather and insects affect family comfort levels. About NF-71, Joann&WellsThePup I. advises to "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season." Spring mud can make access difficult while summer brings biting insects.
Consider wildlife viewing opportunities: Rustic camping near Granville provides chances to spot local wildlife. "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," reports Phil J. about his winter camping experience at FR207, highlighting the area's natural encounters.
Tips from RVers
Choose appropriate sites for your vehicle size: Some areas have limited maneuvering space. At Green Mountain National Forest FR50 - Dispersed Camping, Jeff N. reports: "Found a site that people with a Prius wouldn't be able to get to." Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs and vans rather than large rigs.
Road conditions affect access: Forest roads vary in quality and maintenance. "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," shares J W. about Lincoln Dispersed Camping, suggesting mid-size SUVs can access most areas.
Limited turnaround space: Some sites have restricted areas for vehicle maneuvering. Thomas and James S. note about Austin Brook, "Road is short dead ends with a decent amount of turn around space," indicating travelers should consider vehicle positioning before committing to a site.
