Dispersed camping near Underhill, Vermont offers free primitive camping options within Green Mountain National Forest. Many sites sit at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet where temperature drops can be significant after sunset, even in summer months. Forest Roads that access these sites often become impassable during spring thaw, typically from March through early May depending on annual conditions.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites, visitors can explore the falls before finding camping spots. "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," notes camper Miccal M.
Mountain hiking: From Lincoln Dispersed Camping areas, access multiple trails connecting to the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail systems. "Day 2 we walked past the gate beyond the end of the road followed a trail up 500 feet or so of elevation in the foothills to the west of Mt Ellen. Found one more camp site," reports J W.
Swimming holes: Several sites provide natural swimming opportunities during summer months. At Warren Falls, "This location is easy to access and has really nice drive in sites," according to Gavin P., with proximity to the Warren Falls swimming hole and trails.
What campers like
Mountain views: Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 offers panoramic vistas. Kevin C. describes: "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. Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees."
Riverside locations: Many campers appreciate sites adjacent to flowing water. At Patterson Brookside camp, Thomas and James S. note, "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! Gorgeous rock river."
Seasonal experiences: Camping areas offer distinct experiences across seasons. Phil J. enjoyed winter camping at Green Mountain National Forest FR207: "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."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Most forest roads require appropriate clearance. Regarding Lincoln Dispersed Camping, J W. advises: "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."
Potential closures: Rangers actively close sites that show evidence of misuse. At North Green Mountain Camp, camper Miccal M. warns: "Rangers have already started to move boulders into place to block off some of the other sites. It won't be long before the Rangers close this area down due to abuse."
Fire regulations: Fire restrictions vary by site and season. At Patterson Brookside, Thomas and James S. emphasize: "Be sure to camp at spots with established fire rings! There is no services of any sorts at this location."
Toilet access: Most sites lack facilities completely. J W. notes about Texas Falls: "Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome," making it somewhat unique among dispersed sites in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 offers natural educational experiences. "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot," reports Kevin C., making it ideal for night sky and wildlife observation with children.
Swimming safety: At Warren Falls, water depths and currents can vary significantly. Michelle R. notes the location is "close to trails, Warren Falls swimming hole, the Lincoln Gap Road and hiking," but families should supervise children closely near water.
Weather preparation: Mountain elevations create variable conditions. David W. recommends Green Mountain Camp for families but notes "It is a beautiful setting and the first nice weekend in May. There were quite a few folks there already," suggesting early season trips require extra warm clothing layers.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Most dispersed sites near Underhill aren't suitable for large RVs. Jeff N. found at Forest Road 50: "Found a site that people with a Prius wouldn't be able to get to," indicating the challenging terrain that limits vehicle access.
Turnaround space: Consider your ability to maneuver when selecting sites. Thomas and James S. observe at Austin Brook: "When driving in on the right there's a culdesac type set up of sites. Road is short dead ends with a decent amount of turn around space."
Seasonal road conditions: Spring mud season makes many sites inaccessible. Joann&WellsThePup I. advises FR207 visitors to "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
