Green Mountain National Forest near Windsor, Vermont offers numerous dispersed camping opportunities throughout its 400,000 acres. Elevations range from 900 to 3,800 feet across the forest, creating diverse camping environments from riverside flats to mountain meadows. Winter temperatures typically range from 5-30°F, while summer averages 50-80°F with higher humidity.
What to do
Swimming holes: Austin Brook features multiple riverside sites with excellent water access. "There's a few sites here! All pretty much have access to the streams. Nice fire rings. Keep it clean!" notes a camper.
Mountain hiking: The area near Green Mountain National Forest FR207 provides access to several trails. "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT," reports one visitor. Many sites serve as good base camps for longer backpacking trips.
Wildlife viewing: Winter camping offers unique wildlife opportunities. One camper at FR207 shared, "My first time winter camping and had the entire area to myself. Beautiful sunsets, night skies and scenery. Woke up to two moose nearby the morning I was leaving."
Seasonal waterfall viewing: Spring runoff creates impressive water features. Texas Falls offers "great primitive sites" where visitors can "explore" the cascades before heading "further up into the mountains" to find campsites.
What campers like
Solitude during off-peak times: Many areas that get crowded in summer offer peaceful experiences in shoulder seasons. "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend," explains a camper at Downed Bridge Camp.
Riverside camping spots: The sound of flowing water enhances many sites. "You always hear the river or see waterfalls. The ground gets soft during mud season," notes a camper about the FR207 area.
Mountain views from high meadows: Some sites offer panoramic vistas. "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings/sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests," reports a camper about FR207.
Walk-in privacy options: For those willing to carry gear a short distance, more secluded options exist. "The main area is a walk in and is worth it. The road into here was easy to drive," says a visitor to Downed Bridge Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Access varies dramatically by season. "This is not a place to go without at least 9" of ground clearance," cautions a FR207 visitor, while another notes that "some sports have dips in the ground."
Site availability patterns: Last Light on Michigan Brook requires timing your arrival right. "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site! Keep it clean!" advises a camper.
Cell reception varies by location: Connectivity is spotty but predictable. One camper reports, "2 bars USCellular LTE" at FR207, while others note complete dead zones at other sites.
Environmental sensitivity: Some areas show impact from heavy use. "Some spots are being shut down from abuse," notes one visitor about sites in the region, emphasizing the importance of Leave No Trace practices.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for children: Statton Pond Camp offers a large open area suitable for families. "This was a great site. The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers," reports one visitor.
Water access considerations: Sites with gentle water features work best for younger campers. Somerset Airfield has "access to a stream that flows behind the park" and is near "the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday," reports a winter camper at Somerset Airfield, highlighting the need for proper gear even during milder seasons.
Supply runs: No services exist at dispersed sites. The nearest stores for supplies are typically 20-30 minutes away in larger towns, so plan accordingly with food, water and emergency supplies.
Tips for RVers
Site accessibility: On the Hill Dispersed Camp works for smaller rigs but requires caution. "Being a primitive site, expect that it is a little rough to get into. The only thing you will find in this clearing is a fire ring," advises a regular visitor.
Ground clearance requirements: Forest roads vary significantly in quality. "Upper meadows accessible with 4WD/high clearance vehicles," notes a FR207 visitor, which applies to many free camping areas near Windsor.
Turnaround space: Not all sites accommodate larger vehicles maneuvering. Some areas like Somerset Airfield offer "relatively short walk to waterless toilets" and more space, making them better suited for larger setups.
Level parking considerations: Finding flat spots can be challenging. At Statton Pond Camp, one visitor notes it's "very flat and could accommodate several small campers," making it one of the better options for RVs seeking free camping near Windsor, Vermont.
