Dispersed camping opportunities near Reading, Vermont extend throughout the Green Mountain National Forest along numerous forest roads. Camping areas range from 1,200 to 3,000 feet in elevation with terrain varying from riverside meadows to hilltop clearings. Weather conditions can change rapidly in these mountains, especially during spring and fall when temperature swings of 30-40 degrees within 24 hours aren't uncommon.
What to do
Explore waterways: Several primitive sites offer water access for fishing and swimming. At Austin Brook, campers appreciate the streamside location. As one reviewer noted, "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!"
Winter camping: Snow season transforms these dispersed sites into remote winter getaways. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest 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."
Hiking trails: The area provides access to extensive trail networks including the Appalachian Trail. At Stratton Pond Shelter, one camper reported: "The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter. There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter. The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail."
What campers like
Secluded spots: Many campers value the privacy offered at these no-cost camping areas. A reviewer at Downed Bridge Camp shared: "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend. But don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10."
Convenient access: Some sites provide easier access than others. At Road's End Dispersed Camp, a camper noted: "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."
Natural features: The area offers diverse natural settings from meadows to forests. One camper at Texas Falls Primitive campsites explained: "There seems to be a little confusion about where restricted day use ends and overnight dispersed sites begin... Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook... Brook water filtered fine and was tasty."
What you should know
Site maintenance: Some campers report needing to clean sites before use. A reviewer at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 stated: "I would have given 5 stars except for the unfortunate fact that 2 years in a row my husband and I had to spend over an hour cleaning the site from the people before us."
Vehicle requirements: Many roads require appropriate vehicles, especially in adverse weather. A camper at Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 reported: "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center."
Wildlife awareness: Bears and other wildlife are present in the area. One camper at Statton Pond Camp mentioned: "Easy to get to, had service the whole time, fire pits for every spot. I did see a huge blackbear. I didn't see any bathrooms."
Seasonal conditions: Weather impacts access significantly. A reviewer noted about Dispersed site along Forest RD 71: "This particular campsite is very muddy. Well, at least today it is. I have an SUV and I didn't trust it to get through, and I didn't want to get stuck."
Tips for camping with families
Seek level ground: For comfort with children, prioritize flatter sites. A camper at On the Hill Dispersed Camp shared: "I've camped here a few times, it a nice size primitive site for a small group. Being a primitive site, expect that it is a little rough to get into."
Consider site location: Some sites provide better setup for group camping with kids. At Statton Pond Camp, a reviewer noted: "This was a great site. I couldn't believe that the site was not being used at all, especially the just a couple of days before Fourth of July weekend. The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers."
Arrive early: Securing appropriate free camping spots near Reading requires planning. One camper advised about Downed Bridge Camp: "If you're looking for the ideal spot to stay a few days make sure you show in daylight so you can explore for that."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites have space restrictions. At Austin Brook, a camper explained: "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."
Ground clearance: High-clearance vehicles are essential for accessing many sites. A FR207 camper warned: "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance. Views are spectacular, choose either sunrise or sunset and you should be able to get a site to fit your needs."
Seasonal access: Weather conditions affect RV accessibility. A reviewer at Texas Falls Primitive campsites shared: "Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook. They were well used with some litter. We packed out what we could find."
