Rustic camping near Hardwick, Vermont offers primitive sites throughout the Green Mountain National Forest where elevations range from 700 to 3,500 feet. The region receives approximately 43 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush forests and abundant streams. Most dispersed sites require campers to navigate unpaved roads that deteriorate during spring thaw and after heavy rains.
What to do
Hiking trails: Multiple access points to the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail system can be found from dispersed sites. From Green Mountain National Forest FR207, "Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," according to reviewer Tim M.
Swimming holes: Natural water features provide cooling relief during summer months when temperatures average 75-80°F. At Austin Brook, campers find "a small (4-5 sites, 3 picnic tables) camping and parking area wedged between the Mad River and Vermont Route 100. Grassy and Rocky sites, 4 fire rings, 3 porta-potties, and stream side (river) camping close to trails, Warren Falls swimming hole," as Michelle R. describes.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime opportunities for wildlife spotting from field sites. One winter camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 "woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," while other reviewers regularly spot diverse bird species in the meadow areas.
What campers like
Mountain views: Elevated meadow sites provide panoramic vistas across the Green Mountains. At Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road, Thomas and James S. note, "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road... Peaceful! Gorgeous rock river."
Privacy between sites: Many locations offer natural separation between camping areas. At Haystack Road, a reviewer mentions, "There are 11 options, each completely separated from the others," making it ideal for campers seeking solitude.
Water access: Stream and riverside sites remain highly sought after for both ambiance and practical water collection. A camper at Lincoln Dispersed Camping found "some beautiful secluded campsites - Yards away from gorgeous running water," providing both scenery and a resource for filtering drinking water.
What you should know
Road access limitations: Many forest roads become impassable without high-clearance vehicles. One FR207 reviewer warns, "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance," while another mentions "upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles."
Seasonal closures: Winter access requires planning around road closures. At Route 100 Dispersed Camping, users report conflicting information about permitted camping, with one noting the area was "Posted NO CAMPING as of 2021," while others continue to use the sites.
Bear safety: Proper food storage is essential in this active wildlife area. A Haystack Road reviewer advises, "wildlife like bear and moose will visit you at night. It's almost a certainty, keep your food locked in a bear tight container."
Cell service variability: Communication coverage varies dramatically by location. At FR207, one camper reported "2 bars USCellular LTE," while most other sites have no reliable service.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible sites: For camping with children, choose locations with gentler terrain. Austin Brook provides "really nice drive in sites" with "access to the streams," making it suitable for families with young children.
Stream exploration: Natural water features provide entertainment for children. Patterson Brookside Camp offers multiple sites where "the dirt road along the river is an easy drive" and kids can safely explore the rocky riverbed during low water periods.
Backup plans: Always have alternative sites identified during peak seasons. At Haystack Road, one visitor found "people having stolen some of it [gear] as well as setting up in that spot," highlighting the importance of having a contingency plan when camping with families.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Green Mountain National Forest FR25, sites are relatively small with reports that "all spots 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)."
Leveling challenges: Prepare with leveling blocks as most sites have uneven terrain. One FR207 reviewer cautions, "make sure your car has a bit of clearance as some sports have dips in the ground."
Security concerns: Unattended equipment may be at risk in some areas. A camper at FR25 reported, "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen," suggesting RVers should secure or bring valuable items when leaving camp.
