Rustic camping near Randolph, Vermont offers remote sites where campers can enjoy solitude and natural surroundings without modern amenities. Forest roads throughout the Green Mountain National Forest frequently become impassable during spring thaw when mud can reach depths of 6-12 inches. Most dispersed sites sit at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet, making them cooler than valley locations during summer months.
What to do
Water activities: Several sites along Austin Brook provide river access with natural swimming areas. "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!" notes one camper who visited in June 2024.
Hiking options: The Clark Brook Trail near Green Mountain National Forest FR207 connects with the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail. According to a visitor, "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT."
Wildlife viewing: Winter camping offers unique wildlife spotting opportunities. One camper at FR207 reported: "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
What campers like
River sounds: Streamside camping at Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road provides a natural soundtrack. "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road... Peaceful! Gorgeous rock river," reports one visitor.
Night sky views: Sites at higher elevations offer excellent stargazing. As one FR207 visitor noted: "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings/sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests."
Swimming holes: Green Mountain National Forest FR25 features water access points. "Gorgeous stream/river...love the river sounds," mentions one camper who stayed for a weekend.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many sites require appropriate vehicles. A camper at Last light on Michigan Brook advised: "The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"
Site closures: Forest rangers are restricting access to overused locations. "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," notes a 2024 review of Patterson Brookside.
Theft concerns: Valuables should be secured or brought with you when leaving camp. A FR25 visitor reported: "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Litter problems: Pack out all trash as there are no disposal facilities. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites observed: "They were well used with some litter. We packed out what we could find."
Tips for camping with families
Try meadow camping: For families needing more space, open meadow sites work well. A camper described: "Beautiful meadow campsites overlooking the valley. Firepits and tent platforms are in place although most of the sites are drive-in."
Consider seasonal wildlife: While wildlife viewing can be exciting, some encounters require preparation. One camper advised: "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
Check site accessibility: Some campers with children prefer sites with easier vehicle access. "Smaller area roughly 1-6 sites. When driving in on the right there's a culdesac type set up of sites... Road is short dead ends with a decent amount of turn around space."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping near Randolph accommodates only small RVs. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, "It is an open field on the left side of the road with two or three sites on the right side of the road that are walk in sites."
Ground clearance requirements: RVers need vehicles with adequate clearance. "The road into the site was scenic and beautiful... Also, make sure your car has a bit of clearance as some sports have dips in the ground," notes one camper who visited FR207.
Advance preparation: No services means complete self-sufficiency. "There are no amenities at this campground. Make sure to bring your own trash bag and water," advises a FR207 visitor.
