Dispersed camping spots near Waitsfield, Vermont include options in the Green Mountain National Forest at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,600 feet. The camping season typically extends from mid-May through October, with road access limited during spring thaw when many forest service roads become impassable due to mud conditions. Most dispersed sites require visitors to pack out all trash and supply their own water.
What to do
Hiking to summit views: From Camel's Hump State Park, access trails leading to one of Vermont's highest peaks. "This is a short and sweet hike to one of the higher points in Vermont. It is a beautiful scenic (somewhat strenuous) hike to the summit. The views are pretty epic though," notes one visitor. The designated camping area is approximately 1.5 miles into the hike with 10-12 sites.
Water activities on Waterbury Reservoir: Camp near Little River State Park Campground for lake access. "Great campground for hanging out and a place to bring your boat. The reservoir is a fun place to explore via kayak and cannoe as well as by motorboat," reports Hannah H. The park also offers multiple beaches for swimming after hiking.
Winter camping options: Unlike many Vermont campgrounds that close during winter, Smugglers Notch offers off-season opportunities. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March of 2019. Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve and make sure you park in the allotted area," writes a winter camper. Winter visitors must carry out all waste and be prepared for unplowed access.
What campers like
Remote stream sites: Multiple campers highlight the sound of flowing water at Green Mountain National Forest FR207. "We followed the river all the way to the very end of the road up on the mountain. From there we decided on a site at the top of the mountain at the end of the long road," one camper reports. These dispersed sites offer more seclusion than established campgrounds.
Mountain views from meadow sites: The higher elevation dispersed sites provide panoramic vistas. "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings/sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests," notes a visitor about FR207. Many of these meadow sites require higher clearance vehicles to access.
Privacy between established sites: Moosalamoo Campground features well-spaced campsites. "The campsites are well spaced and staggered for maximum privacy," one reviewer writes. Another notes, "Each site is spaced from each other with good tree/brush coverage and beautiful forest surroundings. It was secluded and dark at night, one of the best campsites to date!"
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest service roads demand appropriate vehicles. "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance," warns a visitor about FR207. Another notes about White River & Gulf Brook, "The site we found is visible from the road but is best accessible with a 4x4 as it has a rocky entrance and can be muddy during heavy rains or spring thaw."
Camping designation confusion: Several areas marked as camping on maps may actually prohibit overnight stays. A visitor to Route 100 Dispersed Camping reports, "This site was lovely, but signs say No Camping. There were a few spots with fire rings and picnic tables and would be a great place to camp though!" Another directly states, "Posted NO CAMPING as of 2021."
Wildlife considerations: While bear activity varies by location, proper precautions remain important. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, one visitor noted, "Saw no bear sign, but kept all food in car as a precaution." Camel's Hump State Park maintains dedicated food storage areas as bears are reported to be a concern in that location.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly water features: Sites with safe water access rate highly among families. At Little River State Park, one parent shares, "We visited here with our 5 kiddos for 2 nights late July 2016. The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water."
Established campgrounds for amenities: For camping with children, consider sites with more facilities. "Family friendly camping... Staff was friendly and helpful. Bathrooms in 'B' were just redone," reports a visitor to Little River State Park, highlighting the value of maintained facilities when traveling with young campers.
Accessible exploration options: Smugglers Notch State Park Campground offers family-appropriate hiking. "Amazing... Great facility but a little pricey," notes one visitor. The park's proximity to both hiking trails and area attractions provides options for families wanting both outdoor activities and nearby conveniences.
Tips for RVers
Limited dispersed options: Most Green Mountain National Forest dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At White River & Gulf Brook, a visitor cautions, "Easy to get into for an xterra but if you have an rv I don't think there is room for you."
Reservoir access considerations: Little River State Park accommodates RVs but site selection matters for water access. "Very nice campground, great location! The reservoir was beautiful. Took the kayak, only issue I had was getting to the lake. Most sites up on hill looking over lake, not easily assessable from camp site," a visitor advises.
Seasonal timing: For RVs, early or late season visits improve site availability. "We were here on a Tuesday with no reservations. We had our pick of sites and no issues staying for 2 days. There were several sites reserved starting Thursday and Friday so the weekend looked to be busier," reports a Moosalamoo Campground visitor, highlighting the advantage of mid-week camping.
