Primitive camping areas dot the Green Mountain National Forest near North Chittenden, Vermont, primarily along forest service roads and designated corridors. Most sites rest at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet where summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F. Several camping options require no reservation and accommodate small vehicles with moderate ground clearance.
What to do
Swim in natural water features: The Patterson Brookside camp area features multiple sites along a rocky river that provides natural swimming opportunities during summer months. As one camper noted, "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."
Explore hiking trails: Tent camping near North Chittenden offers access to multiple trail systems, including the Appalachian Trail corridor where backcountry shelters provide alternative accommodations. The Stony Brook Backcountry Shelter features "large tenting areas where multiple tents could fit and which looked quite level" according to one hiker who also mentioned "a decent swimming hole to clean off a bit" nearby.
Navigate forest roads: Upper Michigan Road provides access to multiple primitive camping areas. A visitor to Michigan Brook Road Camping reported, "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" These roads typically remain unplowed during winter months, requiring alternative transportation methods like snowshoes or snowmobiles.
What campers like
River proximity: Most preferred sites feature established fire rings near flowing water. At Patterson Brookside camp, campers appreciate the "handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience. The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations."
Solitude opportunities: Many dispersed camping areas around North Chittenden remain relatively uncrowded compared to established campgrounds. The Last Light on Michigan Brook site offers privacy at the furthest point accessible by vehicle. According to a review, "The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"
Cost-free camping: The Forest Service maintains free dispersed tent camping areas throughout the region. Sites along FR-25 provide economical options with some amenities like picnic tables. One camper noted the area has "small number of sites and a bit hard to find" but remains accessible for those seeking budget-friendly options.
What you should know
Pack-in, pack-out requirements: All dispersed camping near North Chittenden requires proper waste management. As one Green Mountain National Forest FR25 camper noted, "There was a NFS sign along FR-25 posted asking people to clean up after themselves (litter and human waste) as there'd been complaints to the extent that they were considering closing the sites if people didn't do better."
Limited facilities: Most primitive camping areas offer no amenities beyond existing fire rings. Water must be treated from natural sources or carried in. A visitor to Michigan Brook advised, "This location does not provide cell phone service or WiFi connection" though they noted limited service at road junctions.
Road conditions vary seasonally: Forest service roads deteriorate significantly during spring thaw and after heavy precipitation. Michigan Brook roads become "muddy and very rough" according to multiple reports, making access challenging without appropriate vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Look for established sites: When tent camping near North Chittenden with children, select sites with clear boundaries and established use patterns. The Michigan Brook area has several defined spots as one camper specified: "There's 3 camping spots. 1 before the bridge and 2 after the bridge! The one before the bridge that's right next to the river is the best one!!"
Consider backcountry shelters: Families wanting structure while maintaining a rustic experience can utilize the Winturri Backcountry Shelter which features "lots of tent camping spots as you worked up the hill perpendicular to the shelter" with "decent privacy" and basic facilities including a privy.
Plan for limited services: No potable water exists at dispersed sites, requiring families to carry sufficient supplies. At Michigan Brook, one visitor mentioned that "if you walk to the end of upper Michigan Brook road you will have cell phone service and a gas station along with a United States Post Office as well as a general store."
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: RV campers seeking spots near North Chittenden should scout locations before committing. The Route 100 Dispersed Camping area has "plenty of parking, perfect for car camping" though visitors should note potential restrictions as signage may indicate "No Camping" despite established use.
Winter access limitations: RVs cannot access most forest service roads during winter. One camper reported, "Entrance and exit are a little steep and tricky in the winter, lot wasn't plowed so AWD/4x4 and good ground clearance are recommended" when attempting winter access to Route 100 sites.
Security considerations: Secure valuable equipment when camping in remote areas. A camper at FR-25 warned, "Make sure to lock your valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen" highlighting the need for security measures when camping in isolated locations with equipment.
