Green Mountain National Forest dispersed camping sites near Pittsfield, Vermont provide backcountry experiences within forest settings at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet. Weather conditions vary seasonally with summer temperatures averaging 65-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. The area's tent camping options feature varying levels of accessibility depending on seasonal road conditions and vehicle clearance requirements.
What to do
Explore swimming holes: Several camping areas near Pittsfield provide access to natural swimming opportunities. According to campers at Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road, "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!"
Hiking access: Primitive tent campsites near Pittsfield serve as gateways to hiking trails including sections of the Appalachian Trail. A visitor to Thistle Hill Backcountry Shelter notes, "There aren't any views from this shelter, but it was a peaceful place to stop in the woods!"
River activities: Campsites positioned along waterways offer opportunities for fishing and riverside relaxation. One camper at Route 100 Dispersed Camping shared, "This site has 3-5 campsites right off of route 100. This is right next to Mad River with a area to walk down into a swimming hole."
What campers like
Riverside locations: Many tent campers appreciate sites positioned near water sources. As a visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR25 described, "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out."
Secluded spots: Campers value the privacy found at less-developed sites. At Last light on Michigan Brook, a visitor recommended, "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"
Established amenities: Despite their primitive nature, some sites feature basic improvements. According to a camper at Michigan Road, "I found most of the spots to be on the road before the GPS marker. Few nice ones near the creek. I stayed at one on top of a hill...lots of space at mine."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest roads accessing tent sites near Pittsfield frequently present challenges. A visitor to Michigan Brook Road Camping advised, "Road goes in pretty far. Some parts are muddy and very rough. Higher clearance would be advised!!!"
Winter access: Cold weather significantly impacts campsite accessibility. One winter camper noted, "I stayed at this campsite located at the end of upper Michigan road. It is winter and there is a lot of snow. The main road to the parking lot is plowed and sanded. However if you would like to continue down the service road during winter months I would highly recommend snowshoes or a snowmobile."
Overcrowding concerns: Increased popularity has created sustainability issues at some locations. A visitor to Patterson Brookside camp warned, "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, and that impact can be positive or negative. Choose Positive!"
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for camping areas with safe water access points for children. A family camping at Route 100 appreciated the "Easy to find, quiet & scenic with the river" setting that provided natural recreation options.
Site selection: Larger family groups should seek the more spacious camping areas. At Michigan Brook Road camping, visitors report "Nice little spots to hangout all day. Lots to see, and explore."
Resource preparation: Plan carefully for essential needs with children. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest notes, "We were here on a Friday & Saturday nights. Friday night had the whole place to ourselves. Saturday night all spots filled. We had quiet and respectful neighbors."
Tips from RVers
Road assessment: RV campers should thoroughly research road conditions before attempting access. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 observed, "All the sites were full when I visited (6 to 8 sites, approximately, but i didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily)."
Seasonal timing: RV access becomes significantly more challenging during spring thaw and after rainfall. A visitor noted, "The 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."
Security considerations: Take appropriate precautions with valuables at remote sites. One RVer at Green Mountain National Forest warned, "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
