Dispersed camping sites in Green Mountain National Forest provide free camping near Rutland, Vermont throughout three forest districts spanning 400,000 acres. The terrain varies from densely wooded areas to high meadow clearings at elevations ranging from 900 to 3,500 feet. Weather conditions change rapidly in the mountains, with temperature drops of 10-15 degrees common between valley locations and higher elevation camping areas.
What to do
Waterfall viewing: Texas Falls Primitive campsites features walk-in sites near a dramatic waterfall formation. "There seems to be a little confusion about where restricted day use ends and overnight dispersed sites begin. Some folks were camping in the picnic area. Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook," notes camper J W.
Hiking nearby trails: Multiple dispersed sites provide access to day hikes connecting to major trail systems. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 explains, "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," offering opportunities to experience segments of the Appalachian Trail without committing to a through-hike.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings often provide opportunities for wildlife sightings. "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," reports a winter camper at FR207. Many sites feature bird activity, particularly at dawn, with multiple reviews mentioning owl calls after dark.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Several primitive sites offer brook and riverside camping locations. At Patterson Brookside camp, "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."
Elevated viewpoints: High meadow sites provide panoramic views. According to one camper at On the Hill Dispersed Camp, "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. The only thing you will find in this clearing is a fire ring."
Seclusion from crowds: Quieter options exist farther from main roads. "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... You don't even have to go to fire road 30," advises a camper at Downed Bridge Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires substantial preparation. A winter camper at FR207 found value in off-season camping: "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful." Most roads close with heavy snowfall between November and April.
Vehicle requirements: Road conditions deteriorate during wet seasons. A visitor to Road's End Dispersed Camp notes, "The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles. The only thing you will find here is a fire ring." Another camper warns about FR207: "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance."
Resource protection efforts: Increased ranger management has affected site availability. "Some sites are being shut down from abuse, please be aware that you have a lot of impact, and that impact can be positive or negative. Choose Positive!" advises a regular visitor to Patterson Brookside camp.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for children: Look for sites with natural features that entertain children. At Last light on Michigan Brook, a camper recommends: "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site! Keep it clean!"
Water safety concerns: Sites with brook access require supervision. "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty," notes one Texas Falls camper, but flowing water presents hazards for younger children, particularly after rainfall when levels rise rapidly.
Field camping benefits: Open meadow sites offer family-friendly alternatives. A camper at Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 describes, "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...There are wide open views of 3 mountain ranges." These sites allow better visibility for monitoring children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At Road's End Dispersed Camp, visitors note the access limitations: "great private spot when nothing else is around. The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles."
Access challenges: Road conditions deteriorate seasonally. FR207 campers warn, "Upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles," making lower elevation sites better options for RVs without significant clearance.
Turnaround space: Limited turnaround areas restrict larger rigs. Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 provides more open space: "It is old Vermont farm land that the team of the US National Forest must manage. They have kept the clearing clear and access is pretty good," though reviewers note it "can be a little crowded" during peak periods.
