Dispersed camping near Northfield Falls, Vermont offers primitive sites within the Green Mountain National Forest along elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet. Winter access to most sites closes due to snow accumulation, typically from November through April. The forest roads feature varying conditions with some requiring high-clearance vehicles especially after periods of rainfall.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Visit Texas Falls recreation area which provides access to primitive camping sites along with scenic waterfall views. "This area is wonderful, first Texas falls is 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 visitor to Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive campsites.
Brook hiking: The Clark Brook Trail connects with the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail system approximately 3 miles from the FR207 area. "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," reports a camper from Green Mountain National Forest FR207.
Winter camping: Snow season camping requires additional preparation but offers solitude. A winter visitor to 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
Swimming holes: The Mad River provides natural swimming opportunities near several dispersed sites. "This is right next to Mad River with an area to walk down into a swimming hole," mentions a camper at Route 100 Dispersed Camping.
Open field views: Several sites offer panoramic mountain views instead of forest cover. "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," describes a visitor to Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11.
Brook-side camping: Patterson Brookside Camp features multiple sites with direct stream access. "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," notes a camper at Patterson Brookside camp.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Road conditions vary significantly, with several areas requiring higher clearance vehicles. A visitor to FR291 noted, "FR 291 is a somewhat primitive road - lots of big puddles. I would want some clearance for a vehicle. Our Toyota Highlander made it easily."
Site closures: Overuse has led to increased management actions at several locations. A recent visitor warned, "This site is 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."
Limited amenities: Most sites lack basic facilities, though Texas Falls offers primitive toilets. "Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook. They were well used with some litter. We packed out what we could find. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome," reports a camper from Lincoln Dispersed Camping.
Seasonal crowds: Popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "We were here on a Friday & Saturday nights. Friday night had the whole place to ourselves. Saturday night all spots filled."
Tips for camping with families
Verify site status: Some areas marked for day use only prohibit overnight camping. "This site was lovely, but signs say No Camping. There were a few spots with fire rings and picnic tables and would be a great place to camp though! Not sure how strict that is."
Consider meadow sites: Open field camping offers easier setup for larger family groups. "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings/sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests."
Security concerns: Keep valuables secured when camping. "Make sure to lock your valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Water filtration: Bring filtration equipment for brook water. "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty."
Tips for RVers
Limited vehicle access: Most dispersed sites accommodate only small RVs or vans. "I didn't get the chance to camp here, it was full when I drove through looking for a place. Great location, easy access, on a nice brook. Fire ring only, no facilities and minimal parking," notes a visitor to Austin Brook.
Turning radius: Single-lane forest roads can complicate RV navigation. "The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations, so be aware of oncoming traffic."
Seasonal road challenges: Mud season (spring thaw) creates difficult conditions for heavier 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."
