Green Mountain National Forest offers primitive dispersed camping across numerous forest service roads and tracts. Sites range from high meadow clearings with mountain views to secluded brook-side locations, all requiring self-sufficiency. Vehicle access to many areas requires high-clearance vehicles, with conditions worsening during spring mud season.
What to do
Hiking from camp: The Clark Brook Trail near Green Mountain National Forest FR207 connects with the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail, offering a 3-mile trek from your campsite. "Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," notes one camper who appreciated the proximity to established hiking routes.
Wildlife watching: Winter and early morning offer opportunities for wildlife sightings at dispersed sites. A camper at FR207 reports, "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving" after winter camping in the area.
Swimming spots: Several locations provide natural water recreation during summer months. The Route 100 Dispersed Camping area sits "right next to Mad River with a area to walk down into a swimming hole," according to one visitor who found it convenient for water access.
What campers like
Brook-side camping: Many visitors prefer sites alongside water sources for both ambiance and practicality. At Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road, "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."
Established fire rings: Despite minimal amenities, most sites feature fire rings for safer campfires. At On the Hill Dispersed Camp, a camper notes, "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. The only thing you will find in this clearing is a fire ring."
Cell reception variability: Some sites offer limited connectivity for those needing to stay in touch. At the FR207 meadows, a camper reported "2 bars USCellular LTE" while most other areas have no service at all.
What you should know
Increasing closures: Rangers are actively restricting overused sites throughout the forest. A camper at Patterson Brookside observed, "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, and that impact can be positive or negative. Choose Positive!"
Winter accessibility: Many areas become inaccessible during winter months due to snow accumulation and road closures. Patterson Brookside specifically "is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF."
Site confusion: The boundaries between day-use and overnight areas can be unclear in some locations. A visitor to Texas Falls Primitive campsites explained, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Field camping: Open meadow sites offer more space for family setups. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, "It is an open field on the left side of the road with two or three sites on the right side of the road that are walk in sites. The scenic beauty of this place is amazing."
Nature observation: The abundant wildlife and natural features provide educational opportunities. Town Road 11 offers "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."
Noise levels: More remote sites provide quieter overnight experiences. A camper at Town Road 11 reported, "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many sites are unsuitable for larger rigs or trailers. At Green Mountain National Forest FR42 Dispersed Site, "The sites are small and close to the road. Being primitive sites there are no facilities."
Clearance requirements: Technical driving skills and appropriate vehicles are essential. A reviewer warned that FR207 "is not a place to go without at least 9 inches of ground clearance."
Water access planning: Bring adequate water supplies or filtering equipment for creek water. At Texas Falls, one camper mentioned, "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome."
