Dispersed camping opportunities around Shelburne, Vermont center on the western slopes of the Green Mountains, with elevations ranging from 800 to 2,500 feet. The region features a humid continental climate with cold winters and mild summers. Forest Road access points typically open from May through October, with most sites closing after the first significant snowfall.
What to do
Riverside exploration: Austin Brook provides excellent access to water activities. Just south of the Warren Falls swimming hole, campers can enjoy natural pools and currents. "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!" notes reviewer Thomas and James S.
Hiking nearby trails: Forest trails connect many dispersed sites to larger networks. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, campers can access mountain paths. "Day 2 we walked past the gate beyond the end of the road followed a trail up 500 feet or so of elevation in the foothills to the west of Mt Ellen. Found one more camp site," shares J W.
Wildlife observation: The Green Mountain National Forest hosts diverse wildlife including moose, deer, and various bird species. Winter campers at FR207 have reported moose sightings: "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," shares Phil J.
What campers like
Quiet seclusion: Many sites offer privacy away from developed areas. FR291 in Lincoln provides true isolation. "Down off this back road in VT you can find some beautiful secluded campsites - Yards away from gorgeous running water. No trash or restrooms - Primitive for sure," reports Mike B.
Natural water sources: Streams provide both scenic value and practical water access. 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."
Varied site options: Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 provides both open field camping and wooded sites. "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. The scenic beauty of this place is amazing," writes Kevin C.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Some roads require appropriate vehicles. "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance," cautions a reviewer about FR207. Similarly, J W. notes about FR 291: "FR 291 is a somewhat primitive road - lots of big puddles. I would want some clearance for a vehicle."
Site capacity limitations: Most dispersed areas have limited spots available. "Smaller area roughly 1-6 sites. When driving in on the right there's a culdesac type set up of sites," explains Thomas and James regarding Austin Brook.
Waste management concerns: Texas Falls Primitive campsites and other areas require proper waste handling. "They were well used with some litter. We packed out what we could find," reports J W., highlighting the community responsibility for maintaining these free camping areas near Shelburne.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety planning: Sites near Warren Falls provide swimming opportunities but require supervision. "There are a handful of sites down Austin Brook road, I had trouble finding a level spot," notes Tim M.
Accessible locations: Some areas offer easier family-friendly access. The Route 100 area provides "Easy to find, quiet & scenic with the river" camping according to Senabon B., though note some sites have posted restrictions.
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly in all seasons. "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season," advises Joann&WellsThePup about forest roads, essential knowledge for families seeking dispersed camping around Shelburne.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Finding suitable RV parking requires scouting. "Great location, easy access, on a nice brook. Fire ring only, no facilities and minimal parking," notes Miccal M. about Austin Brook, suggesting advance planning for larger vehicles.
Road conditions assessment: For RV travelers exploring no-cost camping near Shelburne, road quality varies seasonally. "The top end of the road has a few mud pits and may require some ground clearance from rocks," warns Phil J. about FR207 access.
Seasonal access limits: Winter closure affects many forest roads. "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF," mentions Miccal M. about Patterson Brookside, important for RVers planning extended stays at dispersed camping sites outside Shelburne.
