Green Mountain National Forest near South Royalton, Vermont offers primitive camping experiences across elevations ranging from 700 to 2,500 feet. The region receives approximately 40-50 inches of precipitation annually, creating seasonal challenges for backcountry access. Rustic camping sites typically sit along forest roads, alongside streams, or in mountain meadows with basic or no facilities.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: The Clark Brook Trail connects with the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail system just 3 miles from FR207 camping areas. "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," notes camper Tim M. at Green Mountain National Forest FR207.
Wildlife viewing: Winter camping provides unique opportunities to spot local wildlife. Phil J. at FR207 reports, "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."
Swimming holes: The stream access at several sites creates natural swimming areas during summer months. At Route 100 Dispersed Camping, Margaret E. mentions, "This is right next to Mad River with a area to walk down into a swimming hole. Great place."
Waterfall exploration: Several camping areas provide direct access to scenic falls. "Texas falls it 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 Miccal M. about the area.
What campers like
Riverside camping: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience at several locations. "It's quiet with several spots. You always hear the river or see waterfalls," says Randy M. about his stay at FR207.
Secluded sites: On the Hill Dispersed Camp offers isolation for those seeking privacy. Miccal M. describes it as "a nice size primitive site for a small group. Being a primitive site, expect that it is a little rough to get into."
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. One camper at Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 reports, "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot."
Natural surroundings: The biodiversity of the area adds to the camping experience. Kevin C. notes, "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."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many rustic camping areas near South Royalton require appropriate vehicles. Tim M. advises that at FR207, "Upper meadows accessible with 4WD/high clearance vehicles." Similarly, Chris D. notes about winter access at Route 100, "Entrance and exit are a little steep and tricky in the winter, lot wasn't plowed so AWD/4x4 and good ground clearance are recommended."
Pack-in, pack-out policy: Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road and other sites require complete self-sufficiency. Miccal M. cautions, "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in."
Seasonal considerations: The camping season typically runs from late spring through fall. Many Forest Service roads close during winter months, though some hardy campers find winter access. Joann&WellsThePup I. suggests having "a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
Conservation concerns: Increasing use creates management challenges. Miccal M. warns, "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 barriers for child safety. At Austin Brook, Thomas and James S. note that "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings."
Ground conditions: Be prepared for variable terrain when setting up tents. Amanda from FR207 shares, "Make sure your car has a bit of clearance as some sports have dips in the ground."
Water safety: Stream and river access requires supervision. Thomas and James S. describe Patterson Brookside as having "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road."
Weather preparation: The area experiences rapid weather changes, particularly at higher elevations. One camper at FR207 recounts, "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 for RVers
Access limitations: Most dispersed camping sites near South Royalton have restrictions for larger vehicles. Chris D. notes about Last light on Michigan Brook, "The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"
Turnaround space: Limited maneuvering areas create challenges for RVs. Helen P. observes at FR25 that "i didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily."
Security considerations: Unattended campsites may experience theft. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 cautions, "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Limited amenities: No dump stations or hookups exist in the area. Miccal M. describes On the Hill Dispersed Camp as having "The only thing you will find in this clearing is a fire ring."
