Dispersed camping near Plymouth, Vermont offers numerous primitive sites within the Green Mountain National Forest where elevation ranges from 1,000 to 2,500 feet. Most sites sit along forest roads that wind through hardwood forests and connect to mountain streams. Winter access becomes extremely limited from November through April, with many forest roads completely closed due to snow accumulation or spring mud conditions.
What to do
Explore swimming holes: Austin Brook features several natural swimming areas along the river. According to one camper, "This is a beautiful little pull off the road right on the river with tables & fire rings."
Hike nearby trails: From Patterson Brookside camp, access multiple forest trails connecting to the broader network. One reviewer notes, "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF," so plan summer hiking trips accordingly.
Wildlife viewing: Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 offers excellent bird watching opportunities. A visitor observed, "There are many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road. Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees (they were not aggressive)."
What campers like
Solitude in meadows: Campers at Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 appreciate the quiet atmosphere. One reviewer mentioned, "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot."
River access: Many sites at Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road offer direct water access. A camper described it as "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!"
Scenic beauty: Primitive camping spots often feature excellent views. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites, a visitor noted, "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome. Very pretty area."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads need high clearance vehicles, especially after rain. On Austin Brook, one camper reported, "There are a handful of sites down Austin Brook road, I had trouble finding a level spot."
Limited amenities: Most sites have only fire rings. A visitor to Road's End Dispersed Camp described it as "great private spot when nothing else is around. The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles. The only thing you will find here is a fire ring."
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings muddy conditions and insects. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 advised, "Make sure to have a backup plan during mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose spots away from steep river banks. At Downed Bridge Camp, a camper advised, "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend."
Bathroom access: Most primitive sites lack facilities. However, at Texas Falls Primitive campsites, "Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook... Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome."
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly. One reviewer at Green Mountain Camp noted, "We were fortunate to have perfect weather for our stay. This would be an awesome place to see the fall colors."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Many forest roads have tight turns and narrow passages. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR42 Dispersed Site observed, "The sites are small and close to the road. Being primitive sites there are no facilities."
Site spacing: Some primitive areas provide more privacy than others. At Patterson Brookside camp, "There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience. The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations."
Clearance requirements: Larger vehicles face challenges on forest roads. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 warned, "This is not a place to go without at least 9 inches of ground clearance."
