Green Mountain National Forest offers numerous dispersed camping opportunities within an hour's drive of South Burlington, Vermont. The terrain consists primarily of forested mountains with elevations ranging from 600 to 4,000 feet. Most dispersed sites remain open May through October, with seasonal closures during winter and mud season when forest roads become impassable due to snow or excessive moisture.
What to do
Explore swimming holes: Warren Falls features accessible swimming spots near several primitive campsites. "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!" notes a Thomas and James S. review of Austin Brook.
Hike connecting trails: From Green Mountain National Forest FR207 campsites, access nearby hiking options. "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," according to Tim M., making this area ideal for backpackers looking to link with longer routes.
Waterfall viewing: The Texas Falls area combines camping with waterfall observation. "Texas falls is a great place to stop and explore. Then, if you venture further up into the mountains you come upon the campsites with fire pits," explains a Miccal M. review of this scenic location.
What campers like
Meadow views: Open field camping provides panoramic mountain vistas. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, Kevin C. reports: "The scenic beauty of this place is amazing... There are wide open views of 3 mountain ranges. There are many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road."
Riverside sites: Many campers appreciate the sound of flowing water. At Patterson Brookside camp, Thomas and James S. describe how "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road... Gorgeous rock river."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting supports diverse wildlife. "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot," notes a reviewer at Green Mountain Camp. Another camper reported: "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving" at FR207 dispersed camping area.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest roads require specific vehicle capabilities. For North Green Mountain Camp, Miccal M. warns that "these sites are no longer accessible unless you have a lifted full-size jeep or 4-runner type vehicle. I drive a Subaru Wilderness and have been able to access all of the sites for years, this year I cannot."
Leave no trace importance: Rangers are actively restricting overused areas. "This area is being heavily used and some spots are being shut down from abuse, please be aware that you have a lot of impact," cautions a reviewer at Patterson Brookside camp.
Day use versus camping areas: Be aware of designated usage restrictions. Route 100 Dispersed Camping has confused visitors as Helen P. notes: "This site was lovely, but signs say No Camping. There were a few spots with fire rings and picnic tables and would be a great place to camp though!"
Tips for camping with families
Quieter weekday visits: Avoid crowds by timing your stay. David W. from Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 mentions: "It is a beautiful setting and the first nice weekend in May. There were quite a few folks there already but worth the visit."
Stream-accessible sites: Select locations with water features for added entertainment. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, J W. notes: "Easy stroll to a clean brook for filtering water. Very quiet, though we could hear the occasional dog barking from houses in the Downingville area."
Backup location plans: Popular sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "I didn't get the chance to camp here, it was full when I drove through looking for a place," reports Miccal M. about Austin Brook, suggesting the need for alternative options.
Tips from RVers
Access restrictions: Many dispersed sites have challenging terrain for RVs. About FR25 Dispersed Camping, Helen P. notes: "All the sites were full when I visited (6 to 8 sites, approximately, but I didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily)."
Limited facilities: RVers should prepare for self-contained camping. "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in," warns Miccal M. about camping in the Patterson Brookside area.
Road conditions: Forest roads can deteriorate seasonally. J W. observed at Lincoln Dispersed Camping: "FR 291 is a somewhat primitive road - lots of big puddles. I would want some clearance for a vehicle. Our Toyota Highlander made it easily."
