Dispersed camping near Northfield, Vermont encompasses sites in the Green Mountain National Forest primarily along Route 100 corridor. Sites at FR25 average 4-8 primitive camping spaces each, with most located alongside small streams and brooks. Winter access requires higher clearance vehicles with proper tires, as forest roads are not maintained December through April and spring mud season often extends into May.
What to do
Kayak the Waterbury Reservoir: Little River State Park Campground offers direct water access for paddlers. "The reservoir is a fun place to explore via kayak and cannoe as well as by motorboat! We tend to hang at the site more than the beaches as the beaches are very small and full of children," notes reviewer Hannah H.
Explore historic foundations: Little River State Park provides access to abandoned settlements. "The hiking trails are really good—they're actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," shares Rita M. after a July visit with her family.
Discover secluded swimming holes: Austin Brook offers riverside camping with natural swimming areas. "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings," reports reviewer Thomas and James S., highlighting the proximity to water features.
What campers like
Mountain views from elevated sites: Green Mountain National Forest FR207 offers ridge-top camping with panoramic vistas. "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings/sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests," notes Tim M., who also found cell service availability with "2 bars USCellular LTE."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms at established campgrounds. "The bathrooms in 'B' were just redone," reports Megan O. about Little River State Park, while others note regular cleaning schedules despite high summer usage.
Off-grid solitude: Dispersed sites provide true disconnection from crowds. "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance. Views are spectacular, choose either sunrise or sunset and you should be able to get a site to fit your needs," advises Miccal M. about FR207 camping.
What you should know
Limited winter services: Most established campgrounds close by mid-October. "I was looking for the Austin Brook campsite north of this one... 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," reports Chris D. about Route 100 dispersed sites.
Primitive conditions at dispersed sites: Bring everything needed for self-sufficiency. "Make sure to bring your own trash bag and water," advises Amanda about FR207, highlighting the lack of facilities at these free locations.
Security concerns: Some campers have reported theft at remote sites. "Make sure to lock your valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen," warns Melissa M. after camping at Green Mountain National Forest FR25.
Reservation requirements: Book established sites well in advance, especially for waterfront locations. "Book in advance for the best availability!" emphasizes Neena B. regarding Ricker Pond State Park, noting favorite spots "fill up fast for the season."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access swimming: Ricker Pond State Park Campground offers child-friendly water activities. "The tent only loop is so private and perfect for kids biking and swimming. Nice pavilion and the pond was wonderful for canoes and kayaks," shares Rita M.
Central location for day trips: Position your basecamp for regional exploration. "I would highly recommend this campground to anyone looking to visit the Stowe/Waterbury area. We had easy access to hikes in Stowe, plus the Ben and Jerry's shop is about 20 minutes down the road!" shares Alison O. about Little River State Park.
Quiet camping options: Some campgrounds specifically cater to adults seeking tranquility. "Lazy Lions Campground is a comfortable campground with an adults-only policy. Having spent time in plenty of campgrounds with screaming or unwinded children, I could see this as a positive draw for the RV'ing crowd," explains Jennifer L.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Few campgrounds offer complete services. "We had a site right on the beautiful lake with full hook-ups. Campground is well maintained. Swimming is allowed in the lake and there is also a pool. Camp Ground personnel take you to your site and help you back in your trailer," shares Elke P. about Limehurst Lake Campground.
Seasonal considerations: RV camping season runs shorter than tent options. "We had a pull through, and nice green grass sights," notes Craig F. about Lazy Lions Campground, which operates May 15-October 15 and offers clean facilities with pay showers (25¢ for 4 minutes).
Elevation challenges: Mountain roads can present difficulties for larger rigs. Upper meadows at FR207 are "accessible with 4WD/high clearance vehicles" according to Tim M., making them unsuitable for standard recreational vehicles without appropriate capabilities.
