Dispersed camping near Waterbury, Vermont offers varied terrain from meadow sites to riverside camping. The area sits within Green Mountain National Forest, where elevations range from 500 to 2,500 feet across multiple wilderness zones. Seasonal conditions affect access significantly, with winter snowfall often rendering roads impassable above 1,000 feet and spring mud creating hazardous driving conditions through May.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 1-mile hike from Austin Brook sites leads to multiple swimming holes along the Mad River. "Great location, easy access, on a nice brook. Fire ring only, no facilities and minimal parking," notes Miccal M. about Warren Falls.
Hiking the Clark Brook Trail: 3-mile connector from Green Mountain National Forest FR207 links to the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail. "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," according to Tim M. This moderate trail offers elevation gain through mixed forest with minimal crowds.
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: The meadow sites provide prime opportunities for spotting deer, moose, and wild turkey. Phil J. reports, "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving" while winter camping at FR207.
What campers like
Seclusion and quiet: Campers value the remote locations away from crowds. "Down off this back road in VT you can find some beautiful secluded campsites - Yards away from gorgeous running water... The seclusion of this spot is what makes it," explains Mike B. about Lincoln Dispersed Camping.
Natural water features: Sites near streams provide both ambiance and practical water sources. Thomas and James S. describe Patterson Brookside camp as having "Mountain road lingers along the river. There's quite a few sites along the road... Gorgeous rock river."
Night sky viewing: The area's limited light pollution makes for exceptional stargazing. "Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Extremely calm and peaceful," reports Phil J. about winter camping at FR207.
What you should know
Access challenges: Road conditions deteriorate rapidly after rain or during spring thaw. "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," notes J W. about Lincoln Dispersed camping.
Limited facilities: Bring everything you need. "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in," explains Miccal M. about Patterson Brookside.
Increasing regulations: Rangers monitor sites closely due to overuse. "Rangers have already started to move boulders into place to block off some of the sites... It won't be long before the Rangers close this area down due to abuse," warns Miccal M. about North Green Mountain Camp.
Water filtration necessary: Stream water requires treatment. "Brook water filtered fine and was tasty," reports J W. about primitive camping at Texas Falls.
Tips for camping with families
Safer swimming areas: The shallow edges of Warren Falls provide kid-friendly water access. "This location is easy to access and has really nice drive in sites," notes Gavin P., making it suitable for families with young children.
Tree coverage considerations: Look for sites with natural shade. "Great trees for hammocks," mentions J W. about Lincoln dispersed camping, ideal for creating comfortable play areas during hot days.
Wildlife education opportunities: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities to spot various animals. "Lots of birds, butterflies, and bees (they were not aggressive)," reports Kevin C. about Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11.
Security awareness: Keep valuables secure even in remote areas. "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen," warns Melissa M. about camping at FR25.
Tips from RVers
Ground clearance requirements: Many sites demand high-clearance vehicles. "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance," warns Miccal M. about FR207's upper meadow sites.
Limited turnaround space: RVs need to consider maneuverability. "I didn't go down a couple little gravel paths to check each spot as you couldn't turn around easily," reports Helen P. about Green Mountain National Forest FR25.
Seasonal timing: Avoid spring camping with larger vehicles. "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," explains Miccal M. about North Green Mountain Camp.
