Green Mountain National Forest surrounds Lincoln, Vermont with over 400,000 acres of wilderness where tent camping sites range from 1,000 to 3,500 feet in elevation. The camping season typically runs from late May through mid-October, though weather conditions can extend or shorten accessibility. Most dispersed camping areas near Lincoln require vehicles with higher clearance due to rutted forest roads, especially after rainfall.
What to do
Swimming in natural pools: Access the swimming hole at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 where campers note the "gorgeous stream/river" with relaxing "river sounds" making it a perfect spot to cool off during summer months.
Hiking Mount Philo: The 968-foot summit at Mount Philo State Park Campground offers views of Lake Champlain and surrounding mountains. "You can't beat them in the Summer, Spring, Fall, or even snowshoeing in the winter," notes one visitor who regularly returns for the "short hike and the amazing views."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer opportunities to spot deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. "We love how private the camp sites were," writes one camper at Mount Philo, mentioning that all sites are "near walk-in paths to excellent views" of Lake Champlain and surrounding mountains.
What campers like
River proximity: The Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road features "a handful of sites along the river, each offering a slightly different experience." Campers appreciate that some sites are drive-in while others are walk-in, providing options for different camping styles.
Remote wilderness experience: Many campers value the disconnection from technology. At Patterson Brookside, "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, no outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in," advises one visitor who appreciated the primitive nature.
Small, uncrowded campgrounds: Michigan Brook Road Camping offers secluded sites with minimal crowds. "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough," notes a recent camper, emphasizing the remote feel despite being relatively close to town services.
What you should know
No-camping zones confusion: Recent signage changes have created confusion about permitted camping areas. At Route 100 Dispersed Camping, visitors report mixed messages: "This site was lovely, but signs say No Camping," though enforcement appears inconsistent as "someone was camping for at least a week given their tent was there the whole week I was in the area."
Limited services: Most dispersed sites require complete self-sufficiency. "This is right next to Mad River with an area to walk down into a swimming hole. Great place," notes a camper about Route 100, but reminds visitors there are no facilities or services available.
Weather conditions: Spring brings muddy conditions requiring higher clearance vehicles. One Michigan Brook visitor warns: "Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!"
Tips for camping with families
Consider Camel's Hump for older children: Camel's Hump State Park offers backpacking opportunities for families with hiking experience. "The designated primitive camping area is about 1.5 miles into the hike," notes a visitor who found the experience challenging but rewarding, with approximately "10-12 sites" available.
Mount Philo for easier access: With only "8 campsites dispersed in the trees," Mount Philo offers family-friendly camping with clean facilities. "Bathrooms and showers were clean. Showers were quarter operated, 50 cents for 5 minutes," reports a visitor who appreciated the well-maintained facilities.
Food storage considerations: When backcountry camping, proper food storage is essential. At Camel's Hump, a reviewer noted the campground "had a host who was there 24/7 and a shared area for eating and food storage" since bears can be problematic in the area.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites near Lincoln cannot accommodate large RVs. At Last Light on Michigan Brook, campers note it's "the very last spot on the right hand side" before a closed gate, making turning around difficult for larger vehicles.
Road conditions: Forest roads can be challenging even for smaller RVs. "If you would like to continue down the service road during winter months I would highly recommend snowshoes or a snowmobile," advises a Michigan Brook Road camper who got stuck overnight in winter conditions.
Parking strategies: When tent camping from an RV near Lincoln, consider secure parking options. "Main lot has plenty of parking, perfect for car camping," notes a visitor regarding Route 100, though they caution the "entrance and exit are a little steep and tricky in the winter."
