Dispersed camping in Green Mountain National Forest offers numerous rustic sites near North Chittenden, Vermont. The area features elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 feet with dense northern hardwood forests. During spring, roads become particularly challenging due to snowmelt and mud conditions, often requiring rerouting or temporary closures by forest management.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Kettle Brook area connects with several notable trails. According to a camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207, "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT" with manageable elevation gains suitable for moderate hiking.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities. One winter camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 reported, "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," highlighting the diverse wildlife in this forest ecosystem.
Seasonal activities: Visit during fall color season for spectacular views. A recent camper at Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 noted, "This would be an awesome place to see the fall colors," as the open meadow settings provide panoramic views of surrounding mountains.
What campers like
Water access: Many sites feature stream or brook access. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites shared, "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome."
Scenic meadows: The open field sites provide excellent mountain views. According to a review of Green Mountain National Forest FR207, "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings/sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests."
Solitude: Even during busy seasons, quiet camping can be found. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR50 mentioned, "Pretty remote. Lots of traffic. Found a site that people with a Prius wouldn't be able to get to... plenty of privacy and solitude."
What you should know
Site conditions: Some free camping locations near North Chittenden show signs of overuse. A recent review of Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road warned, "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."
Limited facilities: Most sites have only fire rings. A camper at On the Hill Dispersed Camp explained, "Being a primitive site, expect that it is a little rough to get into. The only thing you will find in this clearing is a fire ring."
Security concerns: Valuables should be secured. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR25 reported, "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites with easier access for young children. At Green Mountain National Forest FR25, a camper noted, "There were some fire ring sites along Vermont 100 where FR-25 intersects it," which offers simpler entry points compared to more remote locations.
Noise considerations: Sound travels between sites in open areas. One camper at Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 observed, "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot," making it suitable for families seeking peaceful settings.
Nature activities: The streams provide natural entertainment. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites mentioned, "Texas falls it a great place to stop and explore," offering natural water features that children typically enjoy.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: High clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. A camper at Last light on Michigan Brook advised, "The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"
Site access: Some locations cannot accommodate larger vehicles. According to a review of On the Hill Dispersed Camp, "I've camped here a few times, it a nice size primitive site for a small group," but terrain limitations make it challenging for larger RVs.
Seasonal limitations: Many forest roads become impassable in wet conditions. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 cautioned, "Upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles," indicating that standard RVs may struggle in certain areas.
