Dispersed camping near Monkton, Vermont offers primitive backcountry experiences in the Green Mountain National Forest at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,500 feet. Sites typically remain open from May through October, with many forest roads becoming impassable during spring mud season when temperatures fluctuate between 30-60°F. Campers should bring water filtration systems as natural sources require treatment.
What to do
Hiking near campsites: The Clark Brook Trail connects with the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail system from the FR207 camping areas. "Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," notes a camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207.
Swimming in natural pools: Several camping areas provide direct access to swimming holes and rivers for cooling off. At Route 100 Dispersed Camping, one visitor mentions, "This is right next to Mad River with a area to walk down into a swimming hole. Great place."
Wildlife viewing: The meadow campsites offer opportunities to spot local wildlife including birds, deer, and occasionally moose. "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," reports a winter camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207.
Apple picking: Wild apple trees grow near some campsites, providing seasonal foraging opportunities in late summer and fall. The Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 features "wild apple trees on the right side of the road. Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees."
What campers like
Riverside locations: Many campers prefer sites with direct water access for both recreation and practical needs. At Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road, visitors appreciate that "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road... Gorgeous rock river."
Sunset views from elevated sites: The meadow sites provide panoramic vistas that are especially stunning at dawn and dusk. "Choose either sunrise or sunset and you should be able to get a site to fit your needs," explains a reviewer at Green Mountain National Forest FR207.
Natural isolation: Some areas offer a true wilderness experience with limited outside interference. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, campers enjoy that "Down off this back road in VT you can find some beautiful secluded campsites - Yards away from gorgeous running water... On the weekends some people ride ATVs around here, otherwise it is a sanctuary."
Brook access for water filtering: The ability to access clean water for filtration is highly valued. "Easy stroll to a clean brook for filtering water. Very quiet," notes one visitor to Lincoln Dispersed Camping, adding there are "Great trees for hammocks."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many roads require significant ground clearance, especially after rain or during seasonal transitions. "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance," warns one camper about FR207.
Site closures on the rise: Rangers are increasingly restricting access due to environmental damage and misuse. "Rangers have already started to move boulders into place to block off some of the other sites," reports a visitor to North Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11.
Black fly season: Insects can be extremely problematic during certain periods. "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season," advises a visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR207.
Theft concerns: Some campers have reported security issues at unattended sites. "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen," cautions one camper from Green Mountain National Forest FR25.
No facilities: While a few areas have primitive toilets, most require total self-sufficiency. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites, visitors note "There is not much to these sites as far as amenities, just a fire pit. But that is all I need."
Tips for camping with families
Look for streamside sites: Children enjoy playing in shallow water areas. Austin Brook features accessible stream camping where "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings."
Pack extra clothes: The variable climate means layers are essential. "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out," shared one family at Green Mountain National Forest FR25.
Cleanup responsibilities: Teaching leave-no-trace principles is important as misuse threatens site availability. One camper at Patterson Brookside observes, "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."
Check signage carefully: Some areas that appear to be campgrounds are actually day-use only. At Route 100, a visitor clarifies, "This is a picnic area that people insist on camping there and because of this kind of stuff is why we keep loosing free camping sites."
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs and vans rather than large rigs. "We found 2 campsites with fire pits right off the end of FR 291. I would want some clearance for a vehicle. Our Toyota Highlander made it easily," reports a Lincoln Dispersed Camping visitor.
Road condition monitoring: Contacting the ranger district office before travel can provide current accessibility information. "FR 291 is a somewhat primitive road - lots of big puddles," notes one camper who succeeded with moderate clearance.
Backup plans essential: Weather can rapidly change road conditions. "The road into the site was scenic and beautiful. We followed the river all the way to the very end of the road up on the mountain. From there we decided on a site at the top of the mountain at the end of the long road. We quickly got rained out and went back down."
