Dispersed camping options near Granville, Vermont include primitive sites on forested land with established fire rings and varying terrain conditions. The Green Mountain National Forest encompasses much of the surrounding area, with elevations ranging from 1,600 to 3,000 feet throughout the region. Sites typically require visitors to navigate dirt roads with modest clearance vehicles, while conditions can vary significantly between early summer and fall seasons.
What to do
Explore mountain streams: Camp at Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road where campers can enjoy riverside campsites along mountain streams. "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! There is no services of any sorts at this location," reports one camper.
Hike nearby trails: The proximity to Green Mountain National Forest provides access to hiking trails from tent campsites near Granville, Vermont. A camper notes about Green Mountain National Forest FR25: "small number of sites and a bit hard to find," but the location serves as an excellent base for day hikes.
Swim in natural pools: Several sites offer access to natural swimming areas. One visitor to Route 100 Dispersed Camping mentioned: "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. Great place."
What campers like
Natural sound barriers: The running water at many sites provides privacy between campsites. At Green Mountain National Forest FR25, one camper appreciated the "Gorgeous stream/river...love the river sounds."
Seclusion without difficulty: Tent campers near Granville appreciate the wilderness feeling without extreme isolation. "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site! Keep it clean!" shares a camper about Last light on Michigan Brook.
Multiple site options: Dispersed areas often offer varied camping experiences within the same location. "There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience," notes a visitor to Patterson Brookside camp.
What you should know
Seasonal access limitations: Roads can become impassable during certain seasons. One camper at Michigan Brook Road Camping advised: "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!"
Unclear camping status: Some sites have conflicting information about whether camping is permitted. A visitor to Route 100 Dispersed Camping warned: "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!"
No amenities: Every dispersed site near Granville lacks facilities. "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in," warns a camper about Patterson Brookside camp.
Variable site conditions: The primitive nature of sites means conditions change frequently. "We were here on a Friday & Saturday nights. Friday night had the whole place to ourselves. Saturday night all spots filled," shares one camper about Green Mountain National Forest FR25.
Tips for camping with families
Know bathroom situation: With no facilities at dispersed sites, families should prepare accordingly. "Bathrooms were very clean. Coin-op shower with hot water is 50 cents for 5 minutes" notes a visitor to Mount Philo State Park Campground - the closest established campground with facilities.
Consider weather impacts: Summer rain can make sites uncomfortable for extended stays. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 shared: "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out."
Pack extra supplies: With stores distant from most sites, bring all necessities. A Michigan Brook Road camper noted: "Out of the way back country car/tent camping," explaining the isolation requires self-sufficiency.
Safety precautions: Some areas have reported theft issues. "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen," warned a Green Mountain National Forest FR25 visitor.
Tips from RVers
Road limitations: Most dispersed sites near Granville have restricted vehicle access. "Entrance and exit are a little steep and tricky in the winter, lot wasn't plowed so AWD/4x4 and good ground clearance are recommended," notes a visitor about Route 100 Dispersed Camping.
Site selection for vehicles: Not all dispersed camping areas accommodate larger vehicles. "Drive in about a mile after the parking lot!! Can use car to get in! There's 3 camping spots," advises a camper about Michigan Brook Road.
Seasonal road conditions: Mud season presents significant challenges. "Beware that in Spring the road gets muddy and quite rutted, I would not recommend driving down there with a car that is low to the ground," warns a Michigan Brook visitor.