Best Dispersed Camping near Morristown, VT
Green Mountain National Forest surrounds Morristown, Vermont with numerous dispersed camping options, primarily concentrated along forest roads and waterways. Primitive sites like Austin Brook and Patterson Brookside Camp offer streamside camping with established fire rings but minimal amenities. FR207 provides meadow campsites with panoramic mountain views, while Lincoln Dispersed Camping features secluded sites accessible via forest roads. Most locations are primitive in nature, requiring self-sufficiency and adherence to leave-no-trace principles. The region's camping landscape consists predominantly of dispersed sites rather than developed campgrounds, appealing to those seeking a more rustic outdoor experience.
Road conditions and seasonal closures significantly impact camping accessibility throughout the area. Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, with several campers reporting difficult access even with AWD vehicles. As one visitor noted, "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." Winter closures are common, with most sites inaccessible due to snow from late fall through early spring. The region experiences a distinct "mud season" during spring thaw when many dirt roads become impassable. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most sites, requiring advance planning and self-sufficiency.
Mountain views and waterside locations represent the primary attractions for campers in the region. FR207 receives consistently high ratings for its scenic vistas, with one camper describing "beautiful meadow campsites overlooking the valley" with opportunities to "see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests." Brookside sites along Austin Brook and Patterson Brook are equally popular, offering the soothing sounds of flowing water. Wildlife sightings, including moose, enhance the experience for some visitors. However, increasing popularity has led to concerns about overuse, with rangers placing boulders to block access to some sites and posting warnings about potential closures if visitors don't practice better stewardship. Black flies can be problematic in early summer, requiring appropriate preparation.
