Dispersed camping near New Haven, Vermont provides access to the western slopes of the Green Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,200-2,500 feet. The region experiences substantial seasonal variation, with winter temperatures regularly dropping below freezing and summer highs typically in the 70s-80s°F. Most accessible sites close during "mud season" (usually March-April) when forest roads become impassable.
What to do
Hiking access: Multiple sites along FR207 connect to established trails. According to Tim M., "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," making Green Mountain National Forest FR207 an excellent basecamp for longer treks.
Swimming opportunities: During summer months, several dispersed sites provide water recreation. At Austin Brook, the campsites offer excellent river access. Thomas and James S. note that "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams."
Wildlife viewing: Winter camping provides unique wildlife encounters. Phil J. from FR207 reports: "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful. Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
What campers like
Mountain views: Many campers appreciate the panoramic vistas. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, Kevin C. describes the setting: "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. Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees."
Riverfront campsites: Sites along rivers and brooks are particularly popular. Thomas and James S. describe camping at Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road: "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road... Gorgeous rock river."
Seasonal differences: Each season offers unique experiences. J W. from Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive campsites reports: "Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook... Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome."
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many forest roads require appropriate vehicles. Miccal M. warns about North Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11: "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. I drive a Subaru Wilderness and have been able to access all of the sites for years, this year I cannot."
Seasonal conditions: Prepare for different challenges throughout the year. Jeff N. from FR50 notes: "Super buggy in June. No cell service. But, plenty of privacy and solitude."
Site closures: Management practices change regularly. Murf V. warns about Route 100: "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."
Facilities (or lack thereof): Most sites have minimal amenities. J W. from Lincoln Dispersed Camping observes: "FR 291 is a somewhat primitive road - lots of big puddles. I would want some clearance for a vehicle... We found 2 campsites with fire pits right off the end of FR 291. Easy stroll to a clean brook for filtering water."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming holes: Kids enjoy the water access at many sites. Amanda from FR207 notes: "We followed the river all the way to the very end of the road up on the mountain... We decided on a site at the top of the mountain at the end of the long road."
Security concerns: Take precautions with valuable items. Melissa M. from FR25 shares a cautionary tale: "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out. Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Toilet access: Plan accordingly for bathroom needs. Kevin C. from Green Mountain Camp warns: "There are no amenities at this campground. It is an open field on the left side of the road with two or three sites on the right side of the road that are walk in sites."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: RV access varies significantly by location and recent weather. Phil J. from FR207 advises: "The top end of the road has a few mud pits and may require some ground clearance from rocks."
Site size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. According to Helen P. from FR25: "All the sites were full when I visited (6 to 8 sites, approximately, but i didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily)."
Winter closures: Many roads become impassable in winter. Miccal M. notes about Patterson Brookside camp: "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF."
