Rustic camping near Hancock, Vermont provides access to multiple low-development forest sites along mountain brooks and meadow clearings. The region sits within Green Mountain National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,100-2,500 feet, creating dramatic temperature variations between day and night even in summer months. Most dispersed sites remain accessible from late May through October, with mud season typically closing many forest roads in April and early May.
What to do
Stream exploration: Several sites along Austin Brook offer direct water access with several established fire rings. One camper notes, "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!"
Hiking: Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 provides access to multiple trailheads. A visitor shared, "The scenic beauty of this place is amazing. There was some color in the forest but most of it was still green. There are wide open views of 3 mountain ranges."
Seasonal viewing: Winter camping presents unique experiences in the area. A winter camper at FR207 reported, "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful. Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
Swimming holes: Austin Brook camping areas provide access to natural swimming spots during summer months. A visitor explains, "This is a beautiful little pull off the road right on the river with tables & fire rings."
What campers like
Meadow vistas: Green Mountain National Forest FR207 features open-field camping spots with panoramic views. As one camper described, "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings/sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests."
Water sounds: Many campers appreciate the brook-side sites found throughout the forest. A visitor to FR25 mentioned, "Gorgeous stream/river...love the river sounds."
Wildlife sightings: The remote nature of these sites increases wildlife viewing opportunities. In addition to the moose sightings reported in winter, campers mention seeing "many birds, butterflies, and bees" in the meadow areas.
Solitude options: Last light on Michigan Brook offers particularly secluded options. A camper advises, "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"
What you should know
Seasonal road challenges: Road conditions vary dramatically based on recent weather. One camper warns about National Forest Road 71: "Beautiful area and very secluded. All have fire rings but that's about it. Make sure to have a backup plan during mud season."
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many sites require appropriate vehicles. A camper at Patterson Brookside camp advised, "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!"
No amenities: Primitive camping near Hancock means complete self-sufficiency. Bring adequate water, waste disposal bags, and expect no cell service in most locations. One camper at Green Mountain Camp states, "There are no amenities at this campground."
Site protection concerns: Rangers actively monitor for improper use. A visitor to FR-25 noted, "There was a NFS sign along FR-25 posted asking people to clean up after themselves as there'd been complaints to the extent that they were considering closing the sites if people didn't do better."
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility considerations: For families with younger children, select sites with easier access. At On the Hill Dispersed Camp, a visitor noted, "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."
Brook activities: Small children enjoy shallow brook areas for play. A visitor to Texas Falls Primitive sites explained, "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome."
Bug preparation: Certain seasons bring insect challenges requiring preparation. One camper warned, "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
Weather variability: Mountain elevation means rapid weather changes. A camper recounted, "We followed the river all the way to the very end of the road up on the mountain. From there we decided on a site at the top of the mountain at the end of the long road. We quickly got rained out and went back down to one of the brookside sites."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: These forest sites accommodate only smaller RVs and campers. At Route 100 Dispersed Camping, a visitor noted, "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."
Leveling challenges: Finding level parking presents difficulties on forest roads. A visitor to Austin Brook mentioned, "I had trouble finding a level spot. Minimal ATT reception but overall pretty area."
Security concerns: Valuables should be properly secured. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 warned, "Make sure to lock your valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
