Green Mountain National Forest offers numerous primitive camping opportunities near Plainfield, Vermont, with most sites situated at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet. The forest's seasonal patterns affect campsite access, with many forest roads becoming impassable during spring mud season (typically April-May) and after heavy rainfall. Some forest roads remain open year-round while others close seasonally, with winter camping possible at several high-elevation meadow sites.
What to do
Swimming access exploration: Several dispersed campsites along Austin Brook provide direct access to mountain streams suitable for cooling off. As one camper noted at Austin Brook, "I didn't get the chance to camp here, it was full when I drove through looking for a place. So I came back later in the weekend for pictures. Great location, easy access, on a nice brook."
Hiking nearby trails: The Clark Brook Trail near FR207 connects with the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail system. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR207 mentioned, "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT."
Winter camping options: Some higher elevation sites remain accessible for winter camping when properly equipped. A winter camper at FR207 shared, "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."
Wildlife observation: Several camping areas offer opportunities to spot local wildlife including moose, deer, and various bird species. Beyond just moose sightings at FR207, campers frequently report various wildlife encounters throughout the forest's dispersed sites.
What campers like
Brook and river sounds: Many primitive campsites near Plainfield feature natural water sounds that enhance the camping experience. As described 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! There is no services of any sorts at this location. Mostly local traffic. Peaceful! Gorgeous rock river."
Field camping with views: Higher elevation sites offer panoramic vistas of surrounding mountains. A reviewer at Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 shared, "The scenic beauty of this place is amazing. There was some color in the forest but most of it was still green. There are wide open views of 3 mountain ranges. There are many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road."
Night sky viewing: The limited light pollution provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. A camper noted, "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot."
Varied camping environments: The dispersed sites near Plainfield offer choices between riverside, forest, or meadow settings. Some campers prefer the secluded wooded sites while others favor the open meadow views.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many forest roads demand vehicles with adequate ground clearance. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 noted, "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance."
Site availability varies seasonally: Weekends and holidays see higher usage, particularly during summer and fall foliage season. Weekday arrivals generally find more site options.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across dispersed sites. One reviewer mentioned, "2 bars USCellular LTE" at the meadow sites on FR207, but most areas have limited or no service.
Site closures and restrictions: Some areas previously available for camping now have restrictions. At Route 100 Dispersed Camping, a camper warned, "This is a picnic area that people insist on camping there and because of this kind of stuff is why we keep loosing free camping sites."
Proper waste management: Forest Service notices emphasize Leave No Trace practices. Rangers may close areas if improper waste disposal continues.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible meadow camping: The open field sites at Town Road 11 provide easier family camping with room for children to play. A visitor noted, "It is a beautiful setting and the first nice weekend in May. There were quite a few folks there already but worth the visit."
Short access paths: Some sites require minimal walking from parking areas, making them suitable for camping with children. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites, a camper mentioned, "Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome."
Swimming holes: Natural water features provide recreational opportunities for families. At Texas Falls, "This area is wonderful, first Texas falls it a great place to stop and explore."
Wildlife education: The diverse forest ecosystem offers learning opportunities about local plants and animals. Children can observe wildlife from safe distances, identify wildflowers, and learn about forest ecosystems.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most dispersed sites near Plainfield accommodate smaller vehicles only. At Tripoli Road, a camper advised, "Would call this a solid car camp spot."
Narrow forest roads: Many access roads have limited turning space for larger vehicles. As one visitor noted about FR207, "The road into the site was scenic and beautiful. We followed the river all the way to the very end of the road up on the mountain."
Security considerations: When camping in remote areas, secure valuable items. A camper at FR25 shared, "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out. Make sure to lock you valuables."
Level site limitations: Finding level spots suitable for RVs can be challenging. A visitor to Austin Brook mentioned, "There are a handful of sites down Austin Brook road, I had trouble finding a level spot."
