Dispersed camping sites in the Green Mountain National Forest near Readsboro, Vermont range from 1,800 to 2,400 feet in elevation, providing campers with cooler summer temperatures compared to lower elevations. The area receives approximately 55 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush forest conditions and occasional muddy sites after rainfall periods. Most forest service roads through this region remain open from mid-May through late October, weather permitting.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The area around Woodford State Park provides access to several waterfall hikes within short driving distance. "Went to Tannery Falls, beautiful waterfall. About a 20 minute drive away, worth a visit," notes Lauren from Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground.
Paddle sports: Multiple ponds and lakes offer kayaking opportunities for visitors camping near Readsboro. At Clarksburg State Park, "The day use area is very nice with grass, shade and beach and swim area though it is a bit too far to walk especially with littles so be ready to drive over there... Great for kayaking or Stand up paddling," according to Kaileigh K.
Mountain biking: The region features trails suitable for mountain biking enthusiasts, with some campgrounds serving as convenient base camps. "This is a nice campground that my fiance and I stayed at after a day of mountain biking at Mount Snow. It had good facilities, a few lean-to's if you were lucky enough to get them booked before they were gone," shares Jackie G. from Molly Stark State Park Campground.
What campers like
Secluded camping spaces: Many dispersed sites near Readsboro offer privacy that established campgrounds sometimes lack. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, one camper notes, "At least a dozen spots, some very spacious. Only crashed for 1 night but will be coming back to spend a few, this area was excellent!"
Clean facilities: State parks in the region maintain high standards for bathroom facilities. Beck P. from Molly Stark State Park Campground reports: "THE BATHROOM was the best I've seen camping very clean and updated and honestly gorgeous. Everyone else there was super nice and quiet. Quiet hours start at 10 but it was silent after about 9 which was so amazing."
Wildlife encounters: The forested areas provide opportunities for wildlife observation. At Sperry Road Campground, sites include "bear boxes set apart from the campsite itself as black bears live in the park," according to Jean C., who also mentions "a couple of nearby waterfalls a short hike from the campground" depending on the season.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Black bears inhabit the forests around Readsboro, requiring proper food storage. "Bear boxes are provided, but I question how serious they are about the bear problem because the dumpster was not at all secure," observes Jean C. about Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground.
Limited cell coverage: Most camping areas near Readsboro have minimal or no cellular service. At Woodford State Park Campground, one camper remarks, "Very limited cell service," while another notes this campground is "perfect for families wanting to unplug."
Road access considerations: Forest service roads to dispersed sites can present challenges. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, a visitor shares: "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot... Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck. The road itself was in great condition though."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds near Readsboro specifically cater to families with children. "Perfect for families! There are tons of different types of campsites with either tent spots, lean tus, and a few (hard to get) cabins. Bathrooms are plentiful and clean, hot showers for a small price," writes Sambath T. about Woodford State Park.
Camping with pets: Pet friendly camping near Readsboro, Vermont extends beyond just allowing dogs. At Historic Valley Campground, campers appreciate "beautiful sites with lots of trees" and "clean restrooms and showers" while being able to bring their pets along, making it a good option for families with four-legged members.
Swimming options: Many families appreciate accessible swimming areas. "The pond and the hiking trail around it are beautiful," notes Jay T. about Clarksburg State Park, adding that despite how busy the campground might be, "it's quiet, especially at night," creating good sleeping conditions for families with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV campers should carefully evaluate site options before booking. At Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground, one reviewer advises: "The sites on the outside of the loop are shaded, but most of the ones toward the middle are open and grassy," helping RVers choose based on preference for shade or sun exposure.
Hookup positioning: Be prepared for potentially challenging hookup configurations at some campgrounds. At Historic Valley Campground, Stephen R. notes, "One issue is the hookups are spread out on your sites. So you may need extra hose or longer cord to complete your hookups."
Navigation challenges: RVers should follow official directions rather than GPS when approaching certain campgrounds. "They tell you clearly to avoid the GPS directions, but I can't help but think the giant hill they wanted us to avoid would've been better than the dead end and destroyed awning as a result of theirs… Stay focused and pay super close attention when driving through the streets out here," warns Brittany V. about Historic Valley Campground.
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