Dispersed camping options near Northfield Falls, Vermont operate seasonally with most sites closing during winter months when snow blocks access roads. The area sits at approximately 800-1,200 feet elevation in the western foothills of the Green Mountains, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Several campgrounds restrict or prohibit pets, while others maintain specific quiet hours from 10pm to 7am.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Green Mountain National Forest FR25 offers fishing spots along its small streams where one camper noted, "Gorgeous stream/river…love the river sounds." Visitors frequently bring lightweight fishing gear to catch brook trout in the mountain streams.
Swimming holes: Explore natural swimming areas at Route 100 Dispersed Camping where a visitor mentioned it has "an area to walk down into a swimming hole." These swimming spots typically have rocky bottoms and no lifeguards.
Hiking trails: Summit trails range from easy to strenuous with varying elevations. A camper at Mount Philo State Park Campground shared, "not much to do at the park itself, other than a nice scenic overlook and some short hiking/walking. But there's plenty to do in the surrounding area: hikes, beaches on Lake Champlain."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers value the natural separation between camping areas. At Underhill State Park Campground, a camper described it as "the best of car camping - you get the feel of really being out in the woods, with your car a short distance away. They provide wheelbarrows for easy moving of your stuff."
Riverside locations: Patterson Brookside camp receives praise for its stream-side camping spots. One reviewer 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!"
Night skies: The minimal light pollution allows for excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper at Underhill State Park mentioned it has "pit toilets and a night sky to die for!" Most tent camping sites around Northfield Falls provide unobstructed views of constellations on clear nights.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Waterbury Reservoir Remote Sites demonstrates the minimal amenities typical of the area. A camper warned, "The bathroom is a composting toilet that you'll share with fishing spiders the size of your hand, slam the lid before use!" Pack accordingly with toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
Reservation requirements: While some sites operate first-come, first-served, others require planning. At Mount Philo, a camper advised, "Only 8 campsites, so book early."
Seasonal closures: Many areas become inaccessible during winter. A Michigan Brook Road Camping reviewer noted, "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!" Road conditions worsen after rainfall.
Fire restrictions: Follow current regulations regarding campfires. Patterson Brookside camp emphasizes camping "at spots with established fire rings!" New fire rings cannot be created at established sites.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access options: For families with young children, select drive-in sites. A Route 100 reviewer mentioned, "Main lot has plenty of parking, perfect for car camping." These locations minimize hiking with heavy gear.
Wildlife watching: Early morning hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities. At Molly's Falls Pond State Park, "Anglers will find a variety of fish including rainbow trout, brown trout, northern pike, pickerel, smallmouth bass and yellow perch here."
Swimming areas: Identify safe swimming locations before your trip. As one camper at Route 100 noted, it's "right next to Mad River with an area to walk down into a swimming hole." Check water depth and current before allowing children to enter.
Camp layout: Consider site arrangements when camping with multiple families. A Mount Philo camper suggested, "Sites 1, 6 and 8 are the best if you're only camping with those at your site as they're the most secluded and private. Sites 2 and 3 are more open."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most tent camping areas near Northfield Falls have restricted RV access. A Mount Philo reviewer cautioned the road is "steep and winding, it's not suitable for RVs."
Parking considerations: When RV camping is possible, space constraints exist. Michigan Brook Road camping offers spots where one camper found "lots of space at mine," but noted the need to watch for "parts [that] are muddy and very rough."
Generator restrictions: Policies vary between campgrounds, with many prohibiting generator use. At Green Mountain National Forest FR25, campers need to be self-contained with alternative power sources like solar panels, though one camper warned about security: "Make sure to lock your valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
