Dispersed camping opportunities near Greensboro, Vermont extend beyond Green Mountain National Forest into surrounding areas including White Mountain National Forest in neighboring New Hampshire. The region sits at elevations ranging from 800 to 4,500 feet with numerous stream-fed campsites available from late May through October. Primitive camping near Greensboro offers varied terrain from riverside flats to high meadow sites with mountain views.
What to do
Hiking to mountain summits: North Twin Trailhead at the end of Haystack Road connects to extensive trail networks. "The parking lot at the end of Haystack Rd serves as the Twin Mountain trail head. You may see moose or bears in the area," notes Jean C. For multi-day adventures, "The Twin Mountain peaks and the Pemigewasset Wilderness area... is a great staging ground for weeks worth of adventures," adds another visitor.
Water activities: Several backcountry sites offer river access for swimming and fishing. At Scott C. Devlin Memorial site along Connecticut River, "There is a set of wooden steps that go down into the water at a relatively steep angle. Be sure you tie your boat up while unloading as there is a fair amount of current sweeping around the bend," advises Sarah C. This site is part of the CT River Paddlers Trail network.
Sunset/sunrise viewing: Elevation changes provide excellent sky viewing opportunities. "We got to the site, claimed our platform and hiked over to West Bond to catch a beautiful sunset," reports Hollie G. from Guyot Shelter. Sites on FR207 are positioned for optimal sky viewing: "Choose either sunrise or sunset and you should be able to get a site to fit your needs," suggests a camper.
What campers like
Remote locations with privacy: Many dispersed sites offer separation from neighboring campers. At Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed, "The camp site are all disbursed enough that we did not hear any other camping sounds at all. It was so quiet I could hear the sound of crow wings flapping as they flew by," reports Kevin C. Sites typically have fire rings but minimal other amenities.
Stream access: Riverside camping remains popular among primitive campers near Greensboro. "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," notes Margaret E. The sound of running water enhances the camping experience at multiple sites.
Wilderness viewing: Wildlife sightings add to the primitive camping experience. "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," shares Phil J. about winter camping at Green Mountain National Forest FR207. Other campers report bear and moose sightings across various sites, particularly at dawn and dusk.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many sites require appropriate vehicles. "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance," cautions Miccal M. about FR207. Another camper adds, "Upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles." Winter access becomes even more limited.
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects site conditions significantly. "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season," advises a camper at FR207. Multiple reviewers mention spring thaw making roads temporarily impassable, typically in April-May.
Security concerns: Unattended gear may be at risk in some areas. At Green Mountain National Forest FR25 - Dispersed Camping, one camper reports, "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen." Another visitor notes, "I left out gear to claim a spot while out hiking and came back to people having stolen some of it as well as setting up in that spot."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible water features: Sites with gradual water access work best for families. At Maine Railroad Trestle, "There are several sites available here and a really nice rocky beach with easy access fo loading and unloading. It's also a nice spot to fish from," notes Sarah C. Sites along rivers provide natural entertainment for children.
Tick prevention: Multiple sites report tick issues. "Beware the ticks! They weren't the worse I've seen, but they are definitely around," warns a camper. Another adds, "If you walk through the campsite, there is a massive cornfield, just beware that the ticks in the field are insane!" Proper clothing and regular checks are essential for family safety.
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites that balance privacy with accessibility. "There are a handful of sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings," notes a reviewer at Austin Brook. Sites farther from main roads typically offer more solitude but require more planning for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most primitive camping near Greensboro accommodates only smaller rigs or vans. Small trailers can access some sites, particularly those closer to main roads. A review of Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping notes, "No space for non-free standing tents. Quite a hike dropping down from the main trail to the campsite, 15-20 min straight up to hike out in the morning."
Turnaround challenges: Several forest roads have limited turnaround options. "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," advises Chris D. Many sites are better suited to car camping than larger recreational vehicles.
