Dispersed camping in Green Mountain National Forest provides free camping near Killington, Vermont along several forest roads. Elevation in this area ranges from 1,200 to 2,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night even in summer months. Most primitive sites require a minimum 14-day advance preparation with essential supplies as services remain 8-10 miles from camping locations.
What to do
Brook fishing opportunities: Downed Bridge Camp offers access to local streams. "Note that fills quickly on a weekend. But don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10... You don't even have to go to fire road 10," reports camper Caitlin K.
Hiking connections: Multiple sites provide access to trail networks, including Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive campsites. "This area is wonderful, first Texas falls is a great place to stop and explore. Then, if you venture further up into the mountains you come upon the campsites with fire pits," notes Miccal M.
Wildlife viewing: Seasonal opportunities exist for wildlife spotting. "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," reports a winter camper at FR207. Early morning and dusk offer the best viewing times at meadow sites.
What campers like
Riverside settings: Several sites feature water access, like 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!" advises Thomas and James S.
Meadow views: Open field camping provides panoramic vistas. "Beautiful setting and the first nice weekend in May. There were quite a few folks there already but worth the visit," shares David W. about Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies away from light pollution create excellent stargazing. "Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful," notes Phil J. about winter camping at FR207.
What you should know
Site closures increasing: Rangers are actively restricting access to overused areas. "This area is being heavily used and some spots are being shut down from abuse, please be aware that you have a lot of impact," warns a camper at Patterson Brookside.
No facilities whatsoever: Come fully self-contained. "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in," reminds a reviewer of Patterson Brookside camp.
Limited vehicle access: Many roads require specific vehicles. "Upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles," notes Tim M. about Green Mountain National Forest FR207.
Terrain challenges: FR42 sites have specific limitations. "Every time I've driven up Bingo to find a spot I end up leaving the area and going somewhere else. The sites are small and close to the road," explains Miccal M.
Tips for camping with families
Filtered water access: Some sites have water sources for treatment. "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome," shares J W. about Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive campsites.
Meadow sites for kids: Open areas provide play space away from hazards. "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot," notes Kevin C. about Green Mountain Camp.
Fire preparation: Bring portable fire containment if sites lack rings. "Great location for a small group to camp at. The main area is a walk in and is worth it," says Miccal M. about a primitive site.
Wildlife awareness: Educate children on local wildlife protocols. "Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees (they were not aggressive)," reports a camper at Green Mountain Camp.
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access only: Most sites accommodate small trailers under 20 feet. "Great private spot when nothing else is around. The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles," notes Miccal M. about Road's End Dispersed Camp.
Leveling challenges: Bring ample leveling blocks as most sites feature uneven terrain. "The road into here was easy to drive," shares a camper about one location, though this is uncommon for most dispersed sites.
Limited turning radius: Forest roads often lack turnaround areas for larger vehicles. Many sites require backing into position from narrow access roads with limited visibility.
