Best Dispersed Camping near Underhill Center, VT
Green Mountain National Forest dominates the camping landscape around Underhill Center, Vermont, with numerous dispersed sites scattered throughout the region. Primitive camping areas like Austin Brook and Lincoln Dispersed Camping offer streamside locations with established fire rings but minimal amenities. FR207 sites feature meadow camping with panoramic mountain views, while Patterson Brookside camp provides riverside settings along West Hill Road. Most locations are primitive in nature, featuring basic fire rings without developed facilities. The area primarily supports tent camping and smaller RVs, with vehicle access varying significantly between locations. Sites along Route 100 provide easier access for those seeking proximity to main roads.
Road conditions present significant challenges for accessing many dispersed sites, particularly after rain or during spring thaw. As one camper noted, "Due to flooding and the abundance of campers abusing the roads these sites are no longer accessible unless you have a lifted full-size jeep or 4-runner type vehicle." Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles with at least 9 inches of ground clearance. Winter closures affect most sites, with snow making them inaccessible from late fall through early spring. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most locations, requiring self-sufficiency. Several areas face potential closure due to overuse, with rangers placing boulders to block access to some heavily impacted sites.
Mountain views and water access represent the primary attractions for campers in this region. Visitors frequently mention the spectacular sunrise and sunset views from meadow sites on FR207, where one camper reported "beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful. Woke up to two moose nearby." Brookside locations along rivers and streams remain consistently popular but fill quickly during summer weekends. Seasonal considerations include black fly season in late spring and early summer, which can significantly impact comfort levels. Land managers have posted increasing warnings about proper waste disposal and site stewardship, with one Forest Service sign noting they were "considering closing the sites if people didn't do better" with cleanup efforts.
