Best Dispersed Camping near Northfield Falls, VT
Dispersed camping in the Green Mountain National Forest surrounds the Northfield Falls region of Vermont, with multiple primitive sites accessible via forest roads. Most dispersed sites cluster along Forest Roads (FR) like FR25, FR50, FR207, and FR291, offering streamside or meadow camping with established fire rings but minimal amenities. These areas primarily allow tent camping with some sites accommodating small RVs depending on road conditions.
Access to many dispersed camping areas requires navigating unpaved forest roads, some with challenging conditions particularly after rain. Several locations like FR207 demand vehicles with higher clearance, while roads to Austin Brook and other riverside sites feature dips and water crossings that can become difficult. Limited cell service exists in most areas, and no facilities like trash collection, toilets, or potable water are available except at Texas Falls, which has primitive toilet facilities. Campers must pack out all waste and typically observe a 14-day camping limit under Forest Service regulations.
The riverside sites provide the most popular camping experience, with Austin Brook, Patterson Brookside, and sites along FR25 offering natural water access. Many locations feature established fire rings and occasional picnic tables, though amenities are never guaranteed. Several dispersed areas face increasing management scrutiny due to overuse. The FR207 area includes both meadow sites with mountain views and brook-adjacent locations. "It's quiet with several spots. You always hear the river or see waterfalls," noted one camper about FR207. Another visitor warned, "Rangers have already started to move boulders into place to block off some sites... It won't be long before Rangers close this area due to abuse."
