Tent campsites near Green Mountain National Forest provide primitive accommodations amid Vermont's hardwood forests and flowing creeks. The forest elevation ranges from 900 to 4,000 feet, creating varied camping conditions throughout the seasons. After Labor Day, nighttime temperatures typically drop below 40°F, requiring warm sleeping gear for fall campers.
What to do
Hiking to backcountry shelters: The Appalachian Trail offers multiple shelter sites for overnight stays. At Little Rock Pond Group Camp & Shelters, one camper noted, "The pond is surprisingly warm for its altitude and it's home to two Common Loons. Water is available at a creek and a spring nearby. There's a huge jumping rock on the far side of the pond."
Swimming in forest streams: Several dispersed sites provide direct water access. At Route 100 Dispersed Camping, campers enjoy "right next to Mad River with a area to walk down into a swimming hole." Creekside sites offer natural cooling during summer months when daytime temperatures reach into the 80s.
Winter exploration: Winter access requires specialized equipment and preparation. One camper at Michigan Brook Road Camping reported, "It is winter and there is a lot of snow. The main road to the parking lot is plowed and sanded. However if you would like to continue down the service road during winter months I would highly recommend snowshoes or a snowmobile."
What campers like
Riverside privacy: Many tent campers prefer spots along forest waterways. A camper at Patterson Brookside camp shared, "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!"
Natural soundscapes: Flowing water creates peaceful ambient noise at many sites. At Green Mountain National Forest FR25, one visitor commented, "Gorgeous stream/river…love the river sounds."
Multiple site options: Forest roads often contain several camping opportunities. A Michigan Brook camper explained, "Drive in about a mile after the parking lot!! Can use car to get in! There's 3 camping spots. 1 before the bridge and 2 after the bridge! The one before the bridge that's right next to the river is the best one!!"
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Forest access roads can be challenging, especially in spring. At Michigan Brook, a camper warned, "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!"
Limited services: Prepare for primitive conditions at most sites. A camper at Winturri Backcountry Shelter noted, "This is a back country shelter on the Appalachian trail that doesn't have consistent water. Water was running when I was there in mid-August from a spring close to the shelter."
Site availability concerns: Popular areas fill quickly in peak season. One camper observed at Green Mountain National Forest FR25, "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)."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water: Most tent campsites lack drinking water access. At Little Rock Pond, campers rely on natural sources: "Water is available at a creek and a spring nearby."
Choose established sites: Family-friendly locations offer basic amenities. Route 100 provides "3-5 campsites right off of route 100" with easier access for children and gear.
Security awareness: Take precautions with valuables at remote sites. One FR25 camper cautioned, "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Tips from RVers
Road width limitations: Forest roads often narrow in places. At Patterson Brookside, a camper mentioned, "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."
Winter access challenges: Snow blocks most forest roads from November through April. A Michigan Brook Road camper advised, "I attempted to bring my car and was stuck overnight but was able to dig myself out the next morning."
Dispersed site selection: Look for established areas along main roads. A camper near Bingo noted, "Couple of spots along the forest access road. Beautiful stream close by."
