Dispersed camping near Williston, Vermont primarily centers around the eastern section of Green Mountain National Forest, a 400,000-acre expanse of public land spanning roughly 30-45 minutes from Williston. The area features several primitive camping options with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet across forested terrain and mountain meadows. Winter closure of many forest roads typically occurs between November and May, with mud season presenting significant access challenges.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 15-minute hike from Austin Brook campground provides access to unique swimming opportunities. "Smaller area roughly 1-6 sites. When driving in on the right there's a culdesac type set up of sites. Pretty sure these sites all have river access," reports Thomas and James S.
Mountain hiking: Access Long Trail from several dispersed campsites, particularly those near Lincoln Dispersed Camping. "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. Found one more camp site," notes J W.
Brook fishing: Multiple sites along Forest Road 207 offer direct access to streams. "Gorgeous stream/river...love the river sounds," comments a camper at nearby sites. Brook trout are common in these cold mountain streams.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving," reports Phil J. about his winter camping experience at FR207.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: The Patterson Brookside camp offers stream-adjacent camping with minimal crowds during weekdays. "There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience. The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations," explains Miccal M.
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate the riverside locations. "All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!" advises Thomas and James S. about primitive sites.
Elevated views: Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 provides panoramic vistas from open meadows. "The scenic beauty of this place is amazing. There are wide open views of 3 mountain ranges. There are many flowering plants, wild apple trees on the right side of the road," shares Kevin C.
Night sky visibility: Open field sites away from light pollution offer excellent stargazing. "The campground was very quiet at night except for an occasional owl hoot," notes a camper about the Town Road 11 area.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many forest roads require vehicles with adequate ground clearance. At Green Mountain National Forest FR207, campers warn "This is not a place to go without at least 9 inches of ground clearance."
Seasonal considerations: Mud season (typically April-May) creates significant access challenges. "Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season," advises Joann & Wells.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites offer fire rings only. At Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls, "There seems to be a little confusion about where restricted day use ends and overnight dispersed sites begin... Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook."
Cell service variability: Coverage varies widely across the region. At Lincoln Dispersed Camping, one camper reported "Minimal ATT reception but overall pretty area."
Tips for camping with families
Streamside sites for kids: Select sites with safe water access for children. "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings," notes Thomas and James about Austin Brook camping areas.
Security considerations: Vehicle break-ins occasionally occur in remote areas. "Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen," warns a camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR25.
Day-use confusion: Some sites with tables near Route 100 are designated day-use only. "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," explains Helen P. about confusion at certain areas.
Backup locations: Always have alternative sites planned during peak times. "All the sites were full when I visited (6 to 8 sites, approximately)," reports a visitor unable to find space at FR25.
Tips from RVers
Turn-around space: Many forest roads have limited turnaround areas for larger vehicles. At Moscow Recreation Park, one camper notes "Large sporting field car park suitable for big dogs," which also provides easier maneuvering for RVs.
Winter RV access: Winter camping with RVs requires thorough preparation. "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," warns Chris D. about certain areas.
Respect area regulations: Some campers disregard posted rules which threatens future access. "This is a picnic area that people insist on camping there and because of this kind of stuff is why we keep loosing free camping sites," cautions Murf V. about improper use of day-use areas.
