Dispersed camping sites along Michigan Brook Road offer free primitive camping near Killington with fewer rules for pet owners. Located 4.5 miles down Upper Michigan Road, these primitive campsites feature established fire rings where visitors must pack out all trash and pet waste. The brook access provides cooling spots for dogs during summer months when temperatures in Green Mountain National Forest typically range from 70-85°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Hike the Appalachian Trail: Access the trail directly through Gifford Woods State Park Campground, where hikers can explore with leashed dogs. "The Appalachian Trail runs right through the park. While on a 4 state section hike I traveled by foot through this park," notes Sarah K., who appreciated the ranger's helpfulness during her journey.
Fish at local ponds: Half Moon Pond State Park Campground provides waterfront sites with immediate fishing access. "We fished and kayaked right from our site," reports Rebecca D. The pond is shallow but contains multiple fishing spots where visitors can cast directly from their campsites.
Explore mountain biking trails: The forest service roads around Moosalamoo National Recreation Area offer excellent terrain for mountain bikers with dogs. "Moosalamoo campground has awesome bike trails with smooth trail beds and nice rolling bumps," writes 10-year-old reviewer AJB, highlighting the family-friendly nature of these paths.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Moosalamoo Campground earns praise for its site arrangement. "The camp sites are well spaced and staggered for maximum privacy," notes Nancy M., who appreciated the thoughtful layout. Sites typically measure 50 yards apart with trees providing natural screening.
Waterfront camping options: Campers appreciate the ability to keep pets cool during summer months. "The waterfront lean-tos are kind of close together," explains Angela J. about Bomoseen State Park, noting that kayaks can remain by the water all week, making it convenient for campers with water-loving dogs.
Clean facilities: The maintained bathrooms throughout the region receive consistent praise. "Bathrooms are modern and clean," confirms Cynthia K. about Half Moon Pond, while Scott G. notes about Gifford Woods: "Bathrooms were clean and showers were hot. A pleasant treat after hiking."
What you should know
Bear activity requires proper food storage: Campers must secure both human food and pet food when camping in Green Mountain National Forest. "I saw bear storage lockers but I did not use them as I had my bear keg with me," mentions Lauren S. at Moosalamoo Recreation Area, highlighting the importance of proper storage.
Limited cell service: Many camping areas have restricted or no connectivity. "Cell services on ATT and TMobile were nonexistent," reports a Lake Bomoseen KOA reviewer. For Michigan Brook Road dispersed sites, Keegz M. warns: "THIS LOCATION DOES NOT PROVIDE CELL PHONE SERVICE OR WIFI CONNECTION."
Seasonal road conditions affect access: Michigan Brook dispersed camping requires careful planning. "The road is not plowed," notes Maggie F., adding 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."
Tips for camping with families
Seek sites with space for play: Coolidge State Park Campground provides room for families with pets. "There was plenty of room between sites," says William P., who found the quiet location accommodating for family camping needs.
Consider lean-to options: Families with dogs often prefer lean-tos for easier setup. "We stayed in the Elm lean-to, which sits up on a wooded hill," describes Tara S. about Gifford Woods, noting that lean-tos provide protection from weather while allowing pets to stay comfortably with their owners.
Look for swimming options: When camping with children and pets, water access becomes important. "The beach is small, but it is never busy," says Susan E. about Half Moon Pond State Park, making it ideal for families who want controlled environments for both children and pets.
Tips from RVers
Check road access carefully: Michigan Brook Road Camping requires careful vehicle assessment. "Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" warns Thomas and James S., emphasizing limitations for larger vehicles.
Lean-to sites accommodate smaller RVs: Some lean-to sites can work for compact rigs. "It was perched on a hill but we were still able to park and sleep in our van next to the lean to," explains Katy Z. about her Gifford Woods experience, providing an option for small camper vans traveling with pets.
Plan for primitive conditions: RVers must prepare for limited amenities at most pet-friendly sites. "This is pretty basic camping, there are the basic outhouse toilets, and parking for about 2 cars," notes Franklin R. about Silver Lake, emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency when camping with pets in more remote areas.
