Dispersed camping near Vergennes, Vermont offers primitive sites within the Green Mountain National Forest's various locations. The region features elevations ranging from 600-2,500 feet with bedrock dominated by metamorphic schist and gneiss. Road conditions vary dramatically depending on recent weather, with spring thaw creating challenging mud conditions through May.
What to do
Explore waterfalls and swimming holes: At Austin Brook, visitors can find secluded spots with stream access. "This location is easy to access and has really nice drive in sites," notes Gavin P., while Thomas and James S. add that "all pretty much have access to the streams."
Hike forest service roads: The Lincoln Dispersed Camping area provides access to trails. "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," reports J W., mentioning they "found one more camp site" during their exploration.
Filter water from brooks: Most sites require water filtration equipment. At Texas Falls Primitive Campsites, J W. reports, "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty." The proximity to running water at many sites makes filtration convenient but requires proper equipment.
What campers like
Mountain views: Green Mountain National Forest FR207 offers spectacular scenery. "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings / sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests," notes Tim M. Another camper reports, "Beautiful fields and views... There were many spots on open fields with beautiful scenic views of the mountains."
Riverside camping: Green Mountain National Forest FR25 features sites along water. Sigrid O. reports, "We had quiet and respectful neighbors... Gorgeous stream/river...love the river sounds." Helen P. adds, "The sites looked lovely though. Some people were really entrenched with string lights etc."
Privacy options: Some areas offer more secluded spots than others. Phil J. at FR207 notes, "Great mountain views, some sites right on the road, some in fields and some tucked away out of view." Mike B. describes Lincoln Dispersed Camping as having "some beautiful secluded campsites - Yards away from gorgeous running water."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest roads demand appropriate vehicles. At Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11, Kevin C. mentions finding "several available camp sites" but cautions there are "no amenities at this campground." David W. adds that "access is pretty good" but notes it can "be a little crowded" on nice weekends.
Seasonal closures: Winter access is limited at most sites. Miccal M. reports that Patterson Brookside Camp "is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF." FR207 can be snowy but Phil J. reports "winter camping at its finest" with "the entire area to myself."
Site closures due to overuse: Rangers are actively monitoring site impacts. Miccal M. warns about North Green Mountain Camp, "Rangers have already started to move boulders into place to block off some of the other sites." He adds that "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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with easier access: For families, locations with simpler approaches work best. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive campsites, campers note "a relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome." Miccal M. adds that "Texas falls is a great place to stop and explore" before reaching the campsites.
Plan for zero facilities: Most sites lack basic amenities. Thomas and James S. explain that at Patterson Brookside Camp, "There is no services of any sorts at this location," emphasizing the need to "be sure to camp at spots with established fire rings!"
Pack sufficient supplies: With no services nearby, thorough preparation is essential. J W. reports that "Lincoln General Store is 3.5 miles away via Downingville. Some modest resupply options there." At Austin Brook, Tim M. notes, "I had trouble finding a level spot. Minimal ATT reception but overall pretty area."
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions before arrival: Forest roads can deteriorate rapidly. Jeff N. at Green Mountain National Forest FR50 describes it as "pretty remote" and mentions finding "a site that people with a Prius wouldn't be able to get to." This suggests smaller RVs and trailers may struggle on some roads.
Ground clearance requirements: Specific measurements help determine access. Miccal M. advises that FR207 "is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance." Randy M. adds that "the ground gets soft during mud season," creating additional challenges.
Limited turnaround space: Many forest roads have restricted maneuvering room. Helen P. notes she "didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily." Consider length limitations when choosing sites for vehicles with trailers.
