Dispersed camping near Jeffersonville, Vermont provides primitive outdoor experiences within Green Mountain National Forest. The camping areas sit at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 feet, with local terrain characterized by mixed hardwood forests, mountain streams, and former agricultural clearings. Most dispersed sites remain open from late May through October, though access becomes difficult during spring mud season when dirt roads deteriorate.
What to do
Swimming holes exploration: Several dispersed camping areas offer natural swimming spots along brooks and rivers. At Warren Falls, a camper noted the location is "easy to access, on a nice brook" with sites that "all pretty much have access to the streams."
Hiking nearby trails: Take advantage of trail access from camping areas. Near Lincoln Dispersed Camping, one visitor "walked past the gate beyond the end of the road followed a trail up 500 feet or so of elevation in the foothills to the west of Mt Ellen." For more options, "Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT" near FR207 camping areas.
Wildlife observation: The forest areas provide opportunities to spot native Vermont wildlife. One winter camper at FR207 had a memorable experience: "Extremely calm and peaceful. Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
What campers like
Mountain views: Several areas feature elevated sites with panoramic vistas. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, a camper appreciated the "beautiful setting" noting that "the scenic beauty of this place is amazing. There are wide open views of 3 mountain ranges."
Riverside camping: Many visitors prefer sites adjacent to flowing water. At Patterson Brookside camp, campers enjoy a "mountain road lingers along the river" with "quite a few sites along the road" and a "gorgeous rock river."
Isolation from crowds: During weekdays and off-peak seasons, campers can find solitude. One camper at FR207 highlighted: "Wow this site was so beautiful! The road into the site was scenic and beautiful. We followed the river all the way to the very end of the road up on the mountain."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest roads need high-clearance vehicles. At Green Mountain National Forest FR207, a reviewer warned this is "not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance" and another noted "some sports have dips in the ground."
Site closures and restrictions: Forest rangers have begun limiting access to overused areas. A 2024 review warns that "rangers have already started to move boulders into place to block off some of the other sites" and predicts "it won't be long before the Rangers close this area down due to abuse."
Preparedness needs: No services exist at these sites. A FR207 camper advised: "Make sure to bring your own trash bag and water." Another noted that at Texas Falls Primitive campsites, they found "several sites with only a fire pit along the brook" and had to filter water from the stream.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for children: Choose spots with safe water access. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites, sites offer "if you venture further up into the mountains you come upon the campsites with fire pits and if your lucky you can get one on the river."
Wildlife education opportunities: The varied ecosystems support learning experiences. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, a visitor observed "many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road. Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees."
Swimming safety: Monitor children around water features. FR25 campsites have a "gorgeous stream/river" but no lifeguards or safety equipment, requiring adult supervision at all times.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Green Mountain National Forest FR50, a camper "found a site that people with a Prius wouldn't be able to get to" indicating tight access for larger vehicles.
Seasonal planning: Winter access requires specialized equipment. One winter visitor to FR207 had "the entire area to myself" but needed appropriate vehicle capabilities and cold-weather gear.
Road navigation challenges: Forest roads can be treacherous for RVs. One FR50 visitor warned the area is "pretty remote" with "lots of traffic" and zero cell service, making navigation and emergencies more challenging for RV travelers.
