Dispersed camping near Warren, Vermont offers primitive sites primarily in Green Mountain National Forest at elevations between 1,200-2,500 feet. While most locations remain snow-free from mid-May through October, forest roads can become impassable during spring melt and after heavy rainfall. Several dispersed camping areas feature distinctive rocky streambeds along with seasonal wildflower meadows not found in developed campgrounds.
What to do
Swimming at natural pools: Austin Brook camping area provides direct access to swimming spots along the stream. "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!" notes Thomas and James S. about the Austin Brook area.
Waterfall viewing: Visit Texas Falls Recreation Area for waterfall exploration before settling at your campsite. "This area is wonderful, first 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 and if your lucky you can get one on the river," according to a review from Miccal M. at Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primitive campsites.
Hiking the Clark Brook Trail: Access the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail system via this 3-mile connecting trail near FR207 meadows. Tim M. notes the trail "is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT" and mentions the area has "2 bars USCellular LTE" for those needing minimal connectivity.
What campers like
Riverside camping sounds: Several sites feature constant stream noise that campers appreciate. At FR25, Sigrid O. mentions, "We were here on a Friday & Saturday nights. Friday night had the whole place to ourselves. Saturday night all spots filled. We had quiet and respectful neighbors... Gorgeous stream/river…love the river sounds."
Wildlife sightings: Winter camping offers opportunities for wildlife viewing at Green Mountain National Forest FR207. According to Phil J., "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."
Wildflower meadows: Town Road 11 dispersed sites feature seasonal wildflowers. Kevin C. describes the Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 as having "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 (they were not aggressive)."
What you should know
Road condition challenges: Many dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles. At FR291, J W. notes: "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. We found 2 campsites with fire pits right off the end of FR 291."
Site closures and restrictions: Some dispersed sites near Warren have been closed due to overuse. A recent 2024 review of Town Road 11 sites states, "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. I drive a Subaru Wilderness and have been able to access all of the sites for years, this year I cannot."
Water filtering required: No potable water exists at any dispersed site. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, J W. mentions the practical solution: "Easy stroll to a clean brook for filtering water. Very quiet, though we could hear the occasional dog barking from houses in the Downingville area."
Tips for camping with families
Choose brookside sites: Patterson Brook sites offer family-friendly riverside options. Thomas and James S. recommend, "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! There is no services of any sorts at this location. Mostly local traffic. Peaceful! Gorgeous rock river."
Supply planning: Limited resupply options exist in nearby towns. For Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road, Miccal M. advises, "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, no outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in."
Weather contingencies: Have backup plans during wet periods. Regarding FR71 sites, Joann&WellsThePup I. suggests, "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season."
Tips from RVers
Small RV considerations: Only certain dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs. At the meadow sites along Town Highway 11, Lily D. noted, "Beautiful meadow campsites overlooking the valley. Firepits and tent platforms are in place although most of the sites are drive-in."
Ground clearance requirements: RVs need high clearance for most dispersed sites. Phil J. observed at Route 100 Dispersed Camping, "Entrance and exit are a little steep and tricky in the winter, lot wasn't plowed so AWD/4x4 and good ground clearance are recommended."
Turning radius limitations: Many forest roads have limited turnaround space. Helen P. warns about FR25, "All the sites were full when I visited (6 to 8 sites, approximately, but i didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily)."
