The Connecticut River region near Lyndonville provides numerous dispersed camping options in northeastern Vermont's Kingdom region. At an elevation of approximately 700 feet, the area features riverfront sites with varying terrain and seasonal water levels that affect access. Free camping near Lyndonville offers both riverside and forested options with minimal amenities.
What to do
Hiking the Twin Mountains: Access Haystack Road for primitive camping near excellent hiking trails. "The North Twin Trailhead is at the end of Haystack Rd., these trails connect to the Twin Mountain peaks and the Pemigewasset Wilderness area. Its is a great staging ground for weeks worth of adventures, and you're allowed to stay for two weeks," notes camper Greg L.
Swimming in natural spots: Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed offers access to nearby swimming areas. A camper named Aimee L. shares, "We stayed on site #5 because it was flat, sunny, grassy and had a little brook. Had some passing by traffic but each site is far apart from each other."
Fishing opportunities: The regional waterways provide excellent fishing. While camping at some sites, you can fish directly from camp. Many dispersed sites along roads like Tripoli Road provide river access where campers report good fishing conditions throughout summer months.
What campers like
Secluded camping locations: Scott C. Devlin Memorial sites provide peaceful experiences. Unlike the sites mentioned in the existing description, campers should know about unique challenges: "Be sure you tie your boat up while unloading as there is a fair amount of current sweeping around the bend. Use caution moving up and down the steps."
Primitive camping with minimal rules: Tripoli Road offers a more relaxed camping experience. As camper Kat B. notes, "Fantastic secluded options, highly recommend getting a good spot by the river. Park staff are great and spots are well maintained."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The camping areas around Lyndonville offer wildlife encounters. At Haystack Road, Greg L. warns, "Also, wildlife like bear and moose will visit you at night. it's almost a certainty, keep your food locked in a bear tight container."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Multiple no-cost camping sites near Lyndonville require bear-safe food storage. One camper at Tripoli Road reported that "The camping area re-opened July 19, but check the White Mountain National Forest FB page before heading up there. If the issue recurs, I wouldn't be surprised if they close it again."
Road conditions matter: Many free camping areas require driving on unpaved roads. At Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site, Dom L. advises, "The road in is pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars. Overall this is a great place to camp if you're looking for free camping spots."
Site claiming etiquette: At popular free camping spots near Lyndonville, leaving gear unattended can be risky. Sean L. from Haystack Road cautions, "I left out gear to claim a spot while out hiking and came back to people having stolen some of it as well as setting up in that spot. Cut my trip short because of that experience."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for children: Choose sites with flatter terrain when camping with kids. A reviewer at Cherry Mountain Road mentions, "We stayed on site #5 because it was flat, sunny, grassy and had a little brook." These features make for easier setup and safer play areas.
Accessible stream locations: Families appreciate water access. For Haystack Road campers, Greg L. recommends, "The first few sites on the left have a small stream behind them, it'll make your stay a little easier. Bathing, dishes, etc."
Weekday camping benefits: Hogan Road Pulloff and similar areas offer more availability midweek. One camper reports, "I saw one truck in the evening and one in the morning," highlighting the relative quiet compared to weekends when free campsites fill quickly.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate site selection: Larger RVs should scout sites in advance. Kevin C. at Cherry Mountain Road advises, "As far as disbursed camping in the national forest, this place is not a decent unpaved road and our campsite was only about 3 miles from the highway."
Limited amenities preparation: RVers must be self-contained at free sites near Lyndonville. At Tripoli Road, one camper notes, "There are port-a-potties near the western entrance, but otherwise you're on your own with cat holes or portable toilet solutions."
Timing your arrival: Weekdays offer better options for RV camping. Ali B. shares about Tripoli Road: "Great spot for the weekdays, hardly anyone around and got a great site right by the river (mid-sept.). We left on a Friday morning and a lot more people were coming in."
