Dispersed camping near Jonesville, Vermont offers primitive sites in the Green Mountain National Forest at elevations between 1,000-2,500 feet. During mud season from late March through May, many forest roads become impassable due to runoff from snowmelt. Most dispersed campsites require campers to locate and prepare their own flat tent areas, as only established fire rings mark many locations.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Visit Warren Falls where several sites provide easy access to swimming holes and cascades. "Great location, easy access, on a nice brook. Fire ring only, no facilities and minimal parking," notes reviewer Miccal M.
Mountain hiking: Take forest trails connecting to the Long Trail or Appalachian Trail. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, one camper reports: "Day 2 we 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. Found one more camp site."
Brook fishing: Fish mountain streams running through several camping areas. "Yards away from gorgeous running water. No trash or restrooms - Primitive for sure," writes Mike B. about the streams near Lincoln Dispersed Camping sites.
What campers like
River sounds: Enjoy the natural white noise from flowing water at Green Mountain National Forest FR25. "Gorgeous stream/river...love the river sounds," notes Sigrid O., who camped there on both Friday and Saturday nights.
Meadow views: Watch sunrises and sunsets from open field sites at Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11. "The scenic beauty of this place is amazing. There are wide open views of 3 mountain ranges. There are many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road," writes Kevin C.
Wildlife encounters: Spot local animals in their natural habitat. At Texas Falls, campers find "several sites with only a fire pit along the brook" where they can quietly observe nature.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Consider your vehicle capabilities before attempting certain roads. At North Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, Miccal M. reports: "Due to flooding and the abundance of campers abusing the roads these sites are no longer accessible unless you have a lifted full-size jeep or 4-runner type vehicle."
Site closures: Be aware that rangers actively manage overused areas. At several locations, "Rangers have already started to move boulders into place to block off some of the other sites" due to abuse.
Zero amenities: Prepare for completely self-sufficient camping. At Patterson Brookside camp, Miccal M. notes: "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Choose sites near wading areas with gradual water entry. At Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road, "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road," allowing families to find spots with safe water access.
Wildlife viewing: Bring binoculars for spotting birds and small mammals. Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 offers chances to see "Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees (they were not aggressive)."
Winter accessibility: Note that most sites close during winter. Green Mountain National Forest FR25 is "closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF," making these areas inaccessible from approximately November through April.
Tips from RVers
Road assessment: Scout roads before bringing in RVs or trailers. At Green Mountain National Forest FR207, Phil J. warns that "The top end of the road has a few mud pits and may require some ground clearance from rocks."
Clearance requirements: Measure your vehicle's ground clearance before attempting certain forest roads. Miccal M. advises that FR207 "is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance."
Turnaround space: Check for adequate turnaround areas at dead-end forest roads. At Green Mountain National Forest FR207, campers note some sites are "right on the road, some in fields and some tucked away out of view," with varying ability to turn larger vehicles around.
Legend
