Dispersed camping sites around Underhill Center, Vermont cluster in several valleys within Green Mountain National Forest at elevations between 700-2,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Most accessible sites close during mud season (March-May) when dirt access roads become impassable from snowmelt and spring rains.
What to do
Trail hiking: Multiple forest service roads provide access to trailheads within Green Mountain National Forest. At Green Mountain National Forest FR207, a reviewer notes "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT." The site offers connectivity to longer backcountry routes.
Swimming holes: Natural swimming spots can be found near several dispersed sites. According to a visitor at Route 100 Dispersed Camping, the area has "a area to walk down into a swimming hole" right next to Mad River, making it convenient for cooling off during summer months.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities for spotting native wildlife. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 reported: "Extremely calm and peaceful. Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving." Many sites have established wildlife trails nearby.
What campers like
River sounds: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience at streamside locations. At Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road, campers appreciate the "Gorgeous rock river" with one reviewer mentioning "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road."
Privacy levels: Some sites offer more seclusion than others. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, a reviewer found "beautiful secluded campsites - Yards away from gorgeous running water" and noted that "on the weekends some people ride ATVs around here, otherwise it is a sanctuary."
Open meadow camping: Several sites feature open field camping with mountain views. A camper at Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 described it as "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" with "wide open views of 3 mountain ranges."
What you should know
Access restrictions: Many roads have deteriorated recently. At North Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, a 2024 review warned: "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." Rangers have placed boulders to block some sites.
No facilities: Free camping near Underhill Center means no amenities at most locations. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR207 noted: "All have fire rings but that's about it" while another recommended to "make sure to bring your own trash bag and water."
Seasonal closures: Weather affects site availability throughout the year. One camper reported: "This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF" while another warned to "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
Tips for camping with families
Hammock options: Some riverside sites have good trees for hammock setup. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive campsites, families can find "several sites with only a fire pit along the brook" and one visitor to Lincoln Dispersed Camping noted "Great trees for hammocks."
Water sources: Natural water requires treatment. A reviewer noted: "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty" while another mentioned: "Easy stroll to a clean brook for filtering water."
Wildlife education: The area provides opportunities to observe and teach about local ecosystems. One camper noted the presence of "Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees (they were not aggressive)" and "many flowering plants, wild apple trees."
Tips from RVers
Ground clearance requirements: Vehicle specifications matter significantly when accessing dispersed camping in this region. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR207 advised: "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance" and another noted some spots have "dips in the ground."
Limited turnaround space: Several areas have constrained driving conditions. One camper cautioned: "The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations, so be aware of oncoming traffic" and another mentioned "I didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily."
Limited connectivity: Cell service is spotty throughout the area. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 reported "2 bars USCellular LTE" while others noted "no cell coverage" at several locations, requiring self-sufficiency for navigation and emergencies.
