Dispersed camping near Hartland, Vermont provides backcountry experiences with minimal facilities across 400,000 acres of Green Mountain National Forest. The region features elevations ranging from 900 to 3,500 feet, with numerous forest roads accessing remote camping areas. Most sites close during mud season (March-May) when forest roads become impassable.
What to do
Swimming at natural pools: Warren Falls offers sites close to the Mad River with excellent swimming options. "Beautiful brookside. There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings," notes one camper.
Hiking on nearby trails: The area around Texas Falls Primitive campsites provides access to several woodland paths. A visitor reports, "This area is wonderful, first Texas falls it a great place to stop and explore. Then, if you venture further up into the mountains you come upon the campsites with fire pits."
Wildlife viewing: Winter camping can provide unique wildlife spotting opportunities. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 reported, "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving." Bringing binoculars increases chances of spotting wildlife during quieter seasons.
What campers like
Brook-side camping: Campers consistently mention stream access as a highlight of free camping near Hartland, Vermont. At Patterson Brookside camp, "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!"
Night sky viewing: The remote locations provide minimal light pollution. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 noted, "Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful."
Secluded sites: Many locations offer privacy from other campers. "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic," mentions one visitor to Downed Bridge Camp, adding "If you're looking for the ideal spot to stay a few days make sure you show in daylight so you can explore."
What you should know
Vehicle considerations: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. A FR207 camper advised, "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance."
Amenities and preparation: Most sites have no facilities beyond fire rings. A Green Mountain National Forest FR25 reviewer warned, "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Connectivity issues: Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier. One camper noted, "2 bars USCellular LTE" at certain sites, while others report no service whatsoever.
Seasonal closures: Weather impacts accessibility significantly. Patterson Brookside camp "is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF," according to local knowledge.
Tips for camping with families
Select sites with stream access: Children enjoy water play opportunities. "Gorgeous rock river" makes Patterson Brookside camp particularly family-friendly according to reviews.
Pack extra clothing: Vermont weather changes rapidly, even in summer. At Texas Falls, one camper noted, "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty," but bringing water purification equipment is essential.
Arrive early for weekend camping: Competition for prime sites intensifies Friday through Sunday. One visitor to Road's End Dispersed Camp advised, "The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles. The only thing you will find here is a fire ring."
Prepare for insects: During summer months, biting insects can be problematic, especially near water. Bring appropriate repellents and netting.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. "We were here on a Friday & Saturday nights. Friday night had the whole place to ourselves. Saturday night all spots filled," notes one FR25 camper.
Level site challenges: Finding perfectly flat parking can be difficult. One camper reported, "I had trouble finding a level spot" at Austin Brook sites.
Access road reconnaissance: Consider scouting roads before bringing in larger vehicles. Many roads narrow to single lane, with one camper noting, "Be aware of oncoming traffic" on forest roads.
Ground clearance requirements: RVers should note that "upper meadows accessible with 4WD/high clearance vehicles only" as mentioned by visitors to several sites. Smaller, more maneuverable rigs fare better on forest roads.
