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Best Dispersed Camping near Mendon, VT

51 Reviews

Dispersed camping around Mendon, Vermont is primarily available in the nearby Green Mountain National Forest, where several primitive sites exist along forest roads and near water features. Most sites are free to use and require no reservations, with options ranging from drive-in clearings to walk-in spots near streams and brooks. The Forest Service manages multiple dispersed camping areas within 10-15 miles of Mendon, including sites along forest roads FR207, FR42, and near natural features like Michigan Brook and Texas Falls.

Access roads to many Green Mountain National Forest dispersed sites require careful navigation, with several locations needing higher clearance vehicles. Flooding and heavy use have damaged some access points, particularly at sites like Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, where a standard Subaru may no longer suffice. No drinking water, toilets, or trash services exist at most locations, though Texas Falls primitive sites offer nearby waterless toilets. Campers must pack out all waste and follow leave-no-trace principles. Fire regulations vary by site and season, with several locations permitting campfires in established rings.

The dispersed sites provide varying experiences from riverside camping to mountain views. Some locations feature open meadows with panoramic vistas of surrounding mountain ranges, while others offer streamside settings with natural privacy. Sites fill quickly during summer weekends and peak foliage season. Recent visitor reports indicate increasing management concerns due to overuse. A camper noted, "Rangers have already started to move boulders into place to block off some sites. It won't be long before the Rangers close this area down due to abuse." Another visitor described a site as having "wide open views of 3 mountain ranges. There are many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road. Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Mendon, Vermont (27)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Mendon, VT

69 Photos of 27 Mendon Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Mendon, VT

51 Reviews of 27 Mendon Campgrounds

  • Miccal M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road

    This is a wonderful place to camp

    There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience.  The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations, so be aware of oncoming traffic.  Some of the sites are drive in, some are walk in, but all are primitive. 

    There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area.  Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in.

    This area is being heavily use and some spots are being shut down from abuse, please be aware that you have a lot of impact, and that impact can be positive or negative. Choose Positive!

    This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2023

    Green Mountain National Forest FR207

    NFR 207 Meadows, with great views!

    In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings / sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests. 

    Upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles.
    Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT.
    2 bars USCellular LTE.

  • Thomas and James S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Austin Brook

    Nice sites

    Smaller area roughly 1-6 sites. When driving in on the right there’s a culdesac type set up of sites. Pretty sure these sites all have river access. Road is short dead ends with a decent amount of turn around space.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites

    Nice setting, simple fire pit only sites

    There seems to be a little confusion about where restricted day use ends and overnight dispersed sites begin. Some folks were camping in the picnic area. Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook. They were well used with some litter. We packed out what we could find. There are posted signs on the opposite bank so we stayed on our side. Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome. Very pretty area.

  • Michelle R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2018

    Austin Brook

    Green Mountain National Forest Warren Falls

    Just south of Warren Falls trail head and parking lot and just north of Green Mountains National Forest Road #25, is a small (4-5 sites, 3 picnic tables) camping and parking area wedged between the Mad River and Vermont Route 100. Grassy and Rocky sites, 4 fire rings, 3 porta-potties, and stream side (river) camping close to trails, Warren Falls swimming hole, the Lincoln Gap Road and hiking, and the "famous" Warren General Store, and covered bridge. There aren't any reservation or use instructions or signs posted.

  • Chris D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 10, 2024

    Route 100 Dispersed Camping

    Great little spot right off RT-100

    I was looking for the Austin Brook campsite north of this one, but someone on here gave directions to this site, which turns out has its own page on here. Right off the road, a small handful of camp sites, some picnic tables, presumably some fire rings although with snow coverage I didn’t see any. Main lot has plenty of parking, perfect for car camping. Pull through the trees has some spots for tents and smaller setups. Entrance and exit are a little steep and tricky in the winter, lot wasn’t plowed so AWD/4x4 and good ground clearance are recommended.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11

    Beautiful View Real VT setting but can be a little crowded

    It is a beautiful setting and the first nice weekend in May. There were quite a few folks there already but worth the visit. 

    It is old Vermont farm land that the team of the US National Forest must manage. They have kept the clearing clear and access is pretty good. We are so lucky to have access like this for all of us to enjoy.

  • Joann&WellsThePup I.
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Green Mountain National Forest FR207

    NF-71

    About 12 sites off National Forest Road 71. Beautiful area and very secluded. All have fire rings but that’s about it. Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season

  • M.A.D. P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2023

    Somerset Airfield

    Small open park

    The Airfield Campground is a strip of land with several campsites and fire pits. It has pit toilets. These sites are close together with little to no shade. Some sites have access to a stream that flows behind the park. The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities. There are other dispersed sites down the road that are free

Guide to Mendon

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Mendon, Vermont, where nature meets tranquility. With stunning landscapes and a variety of sites, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Mendon, Vermont

  • Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in at Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road, as there are no amenities available.
  • If you're looking for a peaceful retreat, Kettle Brook is a great choice, but be aware that it may require a vehicle with good clearance due to rough access roads.
  • Always check the conditions before heading to Green Mountain National Forest FR50, as some sites may be challenging to reach depending on the weather.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Texas Falls

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Mendon Ponds dispersed camping located?

Mendon dispersed camping options are primarily located throughout Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest. Areas like Green Mountain National Forest FR207 offer sites in beautiful meadows with views of surrounding hills and crests. Dispersed camping can be found along various forest roads and near water features. Many sites are accessible via dirt roads, with some requiring 4WD or high-clearance vehicles, especially during mud season. The specific locations vary, with sites distributed along rivers, brooks, and in cleared former farmland throughout the region.

Do I need a permit for dispersed camping in Mendon?

Typically, permits aren't required for dispersed camping in the Mendon area, but it's important to follow dispersed camping regulations. At sites like Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road and Austin Brook, camping is allowed without formal permits. However, be aware of site-specific rules and seasonal restrictions. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, respect fire regulations, and limit stays to 14 days in a 30-day period, which is standard for most National Forest dispersed camping. During peak seasons, have backup plans as popular sites fill quickly.

What amenities are available at Mendon dispersed camping areas?

Mendon dispersed camping areas offer minimal amenities, primarily consisting of established fire rings. At Somerset Airfield, you'll find pit toilets and access to a stream, which is more than most dispersed sites offer. Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites typically only have fire pits along the brook. Some sites may have picnic tables, particularly at more established areas, but most are very basic. You'll need to bring your own water, toilet supplies, and pack out all trash. Cell service varies significantly by location, with some areas reporting 2 bars of LTE coverage.

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