Dispersed camping areas near South Pomfret, Vermont range from 750 to 2,500 feet elevation, creating varied primitive camping experiences across the Green Mountain National Forest. Weather conditions fluctuate dramatically between seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and winter temperatures dropping below freezing from November through March. Road closures regularly occur during spring thaw when forest roads become impassable due to mud.
What to do
Hiking connections: Several dispersed sites provide direct access to notable trails. The Last light on Michigan Brook site connects to nearby trails with unique features. According to Thomas and James S., "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"
Swimming spots: Natural swimming areas offer cooling options during summer months. The Austin Brook area provides access to popular swimming holes. Camper Thomas and James S. notes, "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!"
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and dusk provide prime wildlife spotting opportunities from meadow sites. Camper Phil J. reported at Green Mountain National Forest FR207: "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," demonstrating the area's potential for wildlife encounters.
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: Clear nights offer exceptional celestial viewing. Tim M. at FR207 mentioned: "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings / sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests."
Seasonal variety: Each season creates distinct camping experiences. Winter camping provides solitude while fall offers color displays. Phil J. noted: "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful."
Brook and stream access: Many sites feature proximity to flowing water. The Patterson Brookside camp offers this natural amenity. Thomas and James S. described: "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!"
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many sites require significant ground clearance. At FR207, Miccal M. advised: "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance. Views are spectacular, choose either sunrise or sunset and you should be able to get a site to fit your needs."
Limited capacity: Popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. Caitlin K. noted about Downed Bridge Camp: "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend."
Water filtration: No potable water exists at these primitive sites. Camper J W. at Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites shared: "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome."
Site closures: Land management decisions impact availability. Thomas and James S. commented: "This area is being heavily use and some spots are being shut down from abuse, please be aware that you have a lot of impact."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations with natural features that engage children. Kevin C. at Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 observed: "There are wide open views of 3 mountain ranges. There are many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road. Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees (they were not aggressive)."
Noise considerations: Evaluate proximity to other campers when camping with children. Kevin C. also noted: "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot."
Backup plans: Always have alternative camping locations identified. Joann&WellsThePup I. advised: "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly, requiring extra clothing layers year-round. One camper mentioned: "We quickly got rained out and went back down to one of the brookside sites. This site had great tree coverage to easily set up a tarp."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Few dispersed sites accommodate larger vehicles. Miccal M. noted about Road's End Dispersed Camp: "The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles. The only thing you will find here is a fire ring."
Turnaround space: Check for adequate turning radius before proceeding down forest roads. Thomas and James S. mentioned: "Road is short dead ends with a decent amount of turn around space."
Seasonal road conditions: Spring thaw creates challenging driving conditions. Randy M. observed: "The ground gets soft during mud season."
Leveling challenges: Prepare leveling blocks for uneven terrain. Miccal M. warned: "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF," indicating the seasonal limitations for vehicle access.
