Dispersed camping sites near Websterville, Vermont offer primitive outdoor experiences throughout the Green Mountain National Forest and surrounding areas. Located in Washington County at approximately 1,000 feet elevation, this central Vermont region features dense hardwood forests, rocky streams, and varying terrain typically accessible from May through October. Winter conditions regularly close remote access roads and trails from November through April.
What to do
Swimming in natural settings: At Route 100 Dispersed Camping, campers can access the Mad River with "a area to walk down into a swimming hole. Great place," according to Margaret E. The riverside location provides natural cooling during summer months.
Fishing in undeveloped waters: Molly's Falls Pond State Park offers excellent fishing opportunities on its 411-acre lake. According to M.A.D. P., "Anglers will find a variety of fish including rainbow trout, brown trout, northern pike, pickerel, smallmouth bass and yellow perch here."
Paddling to remote sites: Waterbury Reservoir provides boat-in access to secluded camping areas. Julia S. notes that site selection affects paddling time: "Be sure to launch from cotton brook road if your site r11-27. We made the mistake of parking at Little River rd the first time and the paddle to r14 from there was way too long."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural spacing at Underhill State Park Campground. Ali T. mentions, "This is the best of car camping - you get the feel of really being out in the woods, with your car a short distance away." The campground provides wheelbarrows to transport gear from parking to campsites.
Riverside camping spots: The sound of flowing water enhances the tent camping experience at several locations. At Patterson Brookside camp, Thomas and James S. describe the setting as "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!"
Primitive experience: Many campers value the rustic nature of camping near Websterville. Michael V. describes Underhill State Park as "Very primitive and quiet campground. Great staff and campsites. No shower but one of the best weeks I had camping in a while."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas require complete self-sufficiency. Miccal M. notes about Patterson Brookside camp: "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in."
Site closures: Increased usage has led to management concerns at several locations. Green Mountain National Forest FR25 visitors reported seeing "a NFS sign along FR-25 posted asking people to clean up after themselves (litter and human waste) as there'd been complaints to the extent that they were considering closing the sites if people didn't do better."
Confusing designations: Some areas marked as camping spots may actually be day-use only. At Route 100, Helen P. observed: "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!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: For families new to tent camping near Websterville, Vermont, begin with campgrounds offering basic facilities. At Dugout Hideaway @ Granny Clark Brook, campers can access toilets and picnic tables while maintaining a wilderness feel.
Secure your belongings: Be cautious with valuables at remote sites. One camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR25 reported: "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
Plan for weather changes: Vermont's climate includes frequent rain, especially in early summer. Have tarps and rain gear ready as one camper noted: "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent camping areas near Websterville have minimal or no accommodations for larger recreational vehicles. At Green Mountain National Forest FR25, while technically allowing RVs, visitors note that sites are "a bit hard to find" with "small number of sites," making navigation challenging for larger vehicles.
Single-lane roads: Access to many camping areas involves narrow forest roads. Gerald P. described FR25 as having limited space, which can create difficulties when meeting oncoming traffic.
Seasonal road closures: Winter conditions regularly close remote access roads. Miccal M. notes that Patterson Brookside camp area "is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF," a common situation throughout the region.
