Green Mountain National Forest dispersed camping near Morristown, Vermont ranges from 800 to 3,000 feet in elevation, creating varied camping microclimates across the region. Most sites remain snow-covered and inaccessible from November through mid-April, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing at night even in summer months. The majority of dispersed camping sites cluster along forest roads that follow streams and brooks, requiring visitors to filter water from natural sources.
What to do
Hiking access: Austin Brook provides excellent trail connections with multiple hiking routes within walking distance. "This location is easy to access and has really nice drive in sites. Will definitely be a regular on our ventures," notes Gavin P., highlighting its convenience for day hikes.
Brook exploration: Patterson Brookside camp offers multiple rock-pool formations perfect for cooling off during summer months. As Thomas and James S. describe it, "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! There is no services of any sorts at this location."
Wildlife watching: Early morning and dusk provide optimal viewing times at higher elevation sites, particularly for moose sightings. At Green Mountain National Forest FR207, one camper reported "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," making this area noteworthy for wildlife encounters.
What campers like
Mountain vistas: Several meadow sites offer unobstructed panoramic views of multiple mountain ranges. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, Kevin C. notes, "The scenic beauty of this place is amazing. There are wide open views of 3 mountain ranges. There are many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road."
Water sounds: Streamside camping remains consistently popular for its ambient noise and cooling effects. Thomas and James S. describe Austin Brook as having "a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!"
Solitude opportunities: Weekday camping significantly increases chances of finding empty sites, especially at more remote locations. Jeff N. found that FR50 provided "plenty of privacy and solitude" despite being "super buggy in June" with "no cell service."
What you should know
Vehicle restrictions: Many sites now require high clearance 4WD vehicles due to deteriorating road conditions. Regarding North Green Mountain Camp, Miccal M. warns, "Due to flooding and the abundance of campers abusing the roads these sites are no longer accessible unless you have a lifted full-size jeep or 4-runner type vehicle."
Conservation concerns: Forest rangers actively monitor site usage and have begun restricting access to overused areas. According to reviews, rangers have "already started to move boulders into place to block off some of the other sites" due to abuse, and some areas display signs warning about potential closures.
Weather preparedness: Sudden temperature drops of 20-30 degrees occur frequently, particularly at higher elevations. Amanda noted at FR207 that they "quickly got rained out and went back down to one of the brookside sites" which "had great tree coverage to easily set up a tarp."
Tips for camping with families
Water filtering necessity: Bring sufficient filtering equipment as all sites require treating water from natural sources. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites, J W. reported, "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome."
Backup plans: Always have secondary and tertiary site options identified before arrival, especially on weekends. Miccal M. observed at Austin Brook: "I didn't get the chance to camp here, it was full when I drove through looking for a place. So I came back later in the weekend for pictures."
Wildlife precautions: Proper food storage remains essential with increasing bear activity reported throughout the region. One camper at Lincoln Dispersed Camping noted, "Saw no bear sign, but kept all food in car as a precaution."
Tips from RVers
Site selection limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only, with few level parking areas for vehicles over 20 feet. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, J W. cautions, "FR 291 is a somewhat primitive road - lots of big puddles. I would want some clearance for a vehicle. Our Toyota Highlander made it easily."
Free camping access points: National Forest roads provide the majority of free camping near Morristown, Vermont, but require careful navigation. Phil J. notes about FR207, "Great mountain views, some sites right on the road, some in fields and some tucked away out of view. The top end of the road has a few mud pits and may require some ground clearance from rocks."
Seasonal limitations: Many access roads close completely after first significant snowfall, typically by mid-October. However, winter camping enthusiasts report that FR207 offers "Winter camping at its finest" with one camper describing having "the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery."
