Best Dispersed Camping near Salisbury, VT
Dispersed camping in the Green Mountain National Forest surrounds Salisbury, Vermont, with several free primitive sites available along forest roads and near water features. Notable locations include FR207, with multiple established sites in meadows offering mountain views, and Texas Falls Primitive campsites, which provide access to waterside camping. Additional dispersed sites exist along Patterson Brookside on West Hill Road and Town Road 11, where campers can find clearings in former farmland with established fire rings.
Many forest roads require high clearance vehicles, with some areas becoming inaccessible during mud season. FR207 specifically needs at least 9 inches of ground clearance according to visitor reports. Most sites feature only basic fire rings with no amenities—no toilets, potable water, or trash service. Campers must pack out all waste. While some areas like Texas Falls have waterless toilets within walking distance, most locations require complete self-sufficiency. Several sites are experiencing increased usage, with rangers beginning to block access to some overused areas with boulders. "This area is being heavily used and some spots are being shut down from abuse," notes one review of the Patterson Brookside area.
These primitive sites offer varying experiences from open meadow camping with panoramic mountain views to secluded riverside spots. Winter access is limited, with some roads closed seasonally due to snow. Visitors report exceptional night skies and wildlife viewing opportunities, including moose sightings. "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!" advises a camper about Patterson Brookside. Cell service is limited but available in some locations, with reports of 2 bars of US Cellular LTE at higher elevations. The Forest Service has posted notices at several locations requesting visitors practice better stewardship to prevent site closures.
