Green Mountain National Forest provides numerous dispersed camping options near North Hartland Lake in central Vermont. Most sites sit at elevations between 1,200-2,500 feet with typical summer temperatures ranging from 45°F at night to 75°F during the day. The region's dirt forest roads become challenging after rain, with seasonal closures from late October through mid-May during mud season.
What to do
Swimming holes exploration: Texas Falls Primitive campsites offers excellent water features beyond just camping. "This area is wonderful, first Texas falls it a great place to stop and explore. Then, if you venture further up into the mountains you come upon the campsites with fire pits and if your lucky you can get one on the river," notes a camper at Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites.
Hiking trails access: The area connects to major trail systems including sections of the Appalachian Trail. From FR207 sites, "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," explains Tim M. The trail network offers routes for day hikers and backpackers ranging from easy 1-mile loops to strenuous 8+ mile connections.
Winter activities: Some adventurous campers enjoy the area during colder months when crowds thin out. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 reported, "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
Riverside camping spots: The soothing sounds of running water attract many campers to Patterson Brook. "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. Mostly local traffic. Peaceful! Gorgeous rock river," describes a visitor at Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road.
Field sites with views: Elevated meadow sites provide panoramic vistas unlike the forested spots. "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings / sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests," explains a camper about the FR207 meadows.
End-of-road seclusion: For those wanting maximum privacy, several campsites sit at road terminals. "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site! Keep it clean!" notes a camper at Last light on Michigan Brook.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many roads to rustic camping near North Hartland Lake demand appropriate vehicles. "About 12 sites off National Forest Road 71. Beautiful area and very secluded. All have fire rings but that's about it. Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season," advises one camper.
Campsite closures: Increasing visitor numbers have led to management challenges. "There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience. 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," warns a regular visitor.
Bug protection: Seasonal insect activity requires preparation. At Downed Bridge Camp, a camper recommends, "Great location for a small group to camp at. Can't wait to go back. The main area is a walk in and is worth it. The road into here was easy to drive. The only thing you will find at this primitive site is a fire ring."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible brook sites: Families with children often prefer the sites with gentle water access. "I've camped here a few times, it a nice size primitive site for a small group. 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," notes a visitor to On the Hill Dispersed Camp.
Field camping for stargazing: Open meadow sites provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "Wow this site was so beautiful! The next morning we decided to visit the sites for this actual dispersed site on the field. There were many spots on open fields with beautiful scenic views of the mountains," shares one family.
Water filtering preparation: With no potable water available, families need to bring filtration systems. "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome. Very pretty area," mentions a camper who visited Texas Falls.
Tips from RVers
Turning radius limitations: RVers need to plan ahead for tight forest roads. "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend. But don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10... You don't even have to go to fire road 30," advises an RVer.
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites near North Hartland Lake aren't naturally level. "There are a handful of sites down Austin Brook road, I had trouble finding a level spot. Minimal ATT reception but overall pretty area," notes Tim M. at Austin Brook.
Road condition monitoring: Successful RV camping requires tracking seasonal road status. "Great location for a small group to camp at. The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles. The only thing you will find here is a fire ring," reports a camper about Road's End Dispersed Camp.
