Best Dispersed Camping in Vermont

Vermont is not only one of the best places to live and work in the U.S.; it’s also a hugely popular vacation destination. All seasons have their own charm in this freethinking New England state, from the long, snowy winters to gloriously sunny summers and, of course, the breathtaking fall foliage. It comes as no surprise that Vermont is popular among campers. Along with hiking, skiing and fishing, camping in Vermont is among the greatest things to do in this gorgeous state.

Vermont is one of the least populated American states, home to vast forests, accessible mountains, and picturesque villages. Whether you come for fishing or hiking, kayaking or skiing, Vermont has it all in world-class quality. Fishing on Lake Champlain can be done all year long – ice fishing in winter through boat trips in summer – while kayaks and canoes are welcome on most rivers and lakes. Hiking, however, is arguably the most practiced outdoor pursuit in the Green Mountain State. Trails crisscross across the land, running along the beautiful Lake Champlain shoreline and up to the highest Green Mountain peaks, such as Camels Hump and Mount Mansfield. Vermont is also home to the oldest long-distance trail in the United States, the Long Trail. This path runs from the Massachusetts border all the way north to Canada, following the crest of the Green Mountains. A section of the beloved Appalachian Trail cuts through the state’s southern part as well. Rest assured that you’ll find plenty of camping in Vermont on the way, along the trails, on riverbanks and lakeshores. Are you a winter camper, too? We sure hope so! Vermont happens to be one of North America’s best destinations for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. With renowned resorts such as Killington, Sugarbush and Stowe, it’s a winter sports enthusiast’s paradise.

No matter what adventures you’re after, Vermont has you covered. And at The Dyrt, we’re always ready to help you find the best camping in Vermont.

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Best Dispersed Sites in Vermont (32)

    1. Green Mountain National Forest FR207

    8 Reviews
    Granville, VT
    Website

    "Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests. 

    Upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles."

    "About 12 sites off National Forest Road 71. Beautiful area and very secluded. All have fire rings but that’s about it."

    2. George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Wilmington, VT
    Website
    +1 (802) 747-6700

    "The camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on. There were only about 10 spots along the access road."

    "It was large and flat. We were off the road by 100 feet or so. It made it more private. I would highly recommend this site. We stopped on our way through to Stowe Vermont."

    3. NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot

    6 Reviews
    Bennington, VT

    "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."

    "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot. After what was very quiet and a peaceful place to be."

    4. Austin Brook

    6 Reviews
    Warren, VT
    Website

    "When driving in on the right there’s a culdesac type set up of sites. Pretty sure these sites all have river access. Road is short dead ends with a decent amount of turn around space."

    "Great location, easy access, on a nice brook. Fire ring only, no facilities and minimal parking."

    5. Somerset Airfield

    6 Reviews
    West Dover, VT
    Website
    +1 (802) 388-4362

    "It has pit toilets. These sites are close together with little to no shade. Some sites have access to a stream that flows behind the park."

    "I arrived after the 4th of July and a neighbor said it was rowdy during the holiday with illegal fireworks set off every night over the dry forest. These pics are from a weekday morning."

    6. Green Mountain National Forest FR25 - Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    Warren, VT
    Website

    "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) , so I didn't get to camp there"

    "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn’t dry out. Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."

    7. Route 100 Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Warren, VT

    "Main lot has plenty of parking, perfect for car camping. Pull through the trees has some spots for tents and smaller setups."

    "This is right next to Mad River with a area to walk down into a swimming hole. Great place."

    8. Dispersed site along Forest RD 71

    3 Reviews
    Sunderland, VT

    "One of many locations along Forest rd 71, this spot was a good place to pitch a tent for the night while exploring the area even in the rain."

    "There are a few spots around you can park at. I chose a more sunny and open spot with less trees. So there's more options. It's very quiet definitely check it out."

    9. Downed Bridge Camp

    2 Reviews
    Danby, VT
    Website
    +1 (802) 747-6700

    "But don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10... You don't even have to go to fire road 30."

    "Great location for a small group to camp at.  Can't wait to go back.  The main area is a walk in and is worth it.  The road into here was easy to drive. "

    10. Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites

    2 Reviews
    Hancock, VT
    Website

    "There seems to be a little confusion about where restricted day use ends and overnight dispersed sites begin. Some folks were camping in the picnic area."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews in Vermont

66 Reviews of 32 Vermont Campgrounds


  • Miccal  M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road

    This is a wonderful place to camp

    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, so be aware of oncoming traffic.  Some of the sites are drive in, some are walk in, but all are primitive. 

    There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area.  Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in.

    This area is being heavily use and some spots are being shut down from abuse, please be aware that you have a lot of impact, and that impact can be positive or negative. Choose Positive!

    This area is closed in the winter due to snow, by the GMNF

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2023

    Green Mountain National Forest FR207

    NFR 207 Meadows, with great views!

    In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings / sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests. 

    Upper meadows accessible with 4WD / high clearance vehicles.
    Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT.
    2 bars USCellular LTE.

  • Thomas and James S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Austin Brook

    Nice sites

    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. Road is short dead ends with a decent amount of turn around space.

  • Michelle R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2018

    Austin Brook

    Green Mountain National Forest Warren Falls

    Just south of Warren Falls trail head and parking lot and just north of Green Mountains National Forest Road #25, is a small (4-5 sites, 3 picnic tables) camping and parking area wedged between the Mad River and Vermont Route 100. Grassy and Rocky sites, 4 fire rings, 3 porta-potties, and stream side (river) camping close to trails, Warren Falls swimming hole, the Lincoln Gap Road and hiking, and the "famous" Warren General Store, and covered bridge. There aren't any reservation or use instructions or signs posted.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites

    Nice setting, simple fire pit only sites

    There seems to be a little confusion about where restricted day use ends and overnight dispersed sites begin. Some folks were camping in the picnic area. Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook. They were well used with some litter. We packed out what we could find. There are posted signs on the opposite bank so we stayed on our side. Brook water filtered fine and was tasty. Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome. Very pretty area.

  • Chris D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 10, 2024

    Route 100 Dispersed Camping

    Great little spot right off RT-100

    I was looking for the Austin Brook campsite north of this one, but someone on here gave directions to this site, which turns out has its own page on here. Right off the road, a small handful of camp sites, some picnic tables, presumably some fire rings although with snow coverage I didn’t see any. Main lot has plenty of parking, perfect for car camping. Pull through the trees has some spots for tents and smaller setups. 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.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11

    Beautiful View Real VT setting but can be a little crowded

    It is a beautiful setting and the first nice weekend in May. There were quite a few folks there already but worth the visit. 

    It is old Vermont farm land that the team of the US National Forest must manage. They have kept the clearing clear and access is pretty good. We are so lucky to have access like this for all of us to enjoy.

  • Joann&WellsThePup I.
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Green Mountain National Forest FR207

    NF-71

    About 12 sites off National Forest Road 71. Beautiful area and very secluded. All have fire rings but that’s about it. Make sure to have a backup plan during the mud season and treat your skin and clothes during black fly season

  • M.A.D. P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2023

    Somerset Airfield

    Small open park

    The Airfield Campground is a strip of land with several campsites and fire pits. It has pit toilets. These sites are close together with little to no shade. Some sites have access to a stream that flows behind the park. The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities. There are other dispersed sites down the road that are free


Guide to Vermont

Vermont offers stunning landscapes and serene environments for those seeking the freedom of dispersed camping. With a variety of locations to choose from, campers can enjoy the beauty of nature while embracing the simplicity of outdoor living.

Tips for free and dispersed camping in Vermont

  • Green Mountain National Forest FR207 provides multiple fire rings and scenic views, making it a great spot for sunrise and sunset enthusiasts.
  • George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed features large, well-organized sites along the road, perfect for those looking for a quiet and desolate camping experience.
  • Austin Brook is easily accessible with drive-in sites, ideal for campers who prefer convenience without sacrificing natural beauty.

Top activities while free camping in Vermont

  • Hike the nearby Clark Brook Trail from Green Mountain National Forest FR207, which connects with the Appalachian Trail for an adventurous day out.
  • Enjoy fishing or paddling at Somerset Airfield, where the proximity to the Somerset Reservoir offers plenty of opportunities for water activities.
  • Explore the beautiful brookside sites at Warren Falls, where you can relax by the water and enjoy the sounds of nature.

Top attractions for dispersed campers

  • Texas Falls Primitive Campsites are located near a picturesque brook, providing a peaceful setting for those looking to unwind in nature.
  • The scenic views from Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 showcase the beauty of three mountain ranges, making it a perfect spot for photography and wildlife watching.
  • NF 83 - Riverside offers a large grassy area along the river, ideal for setting up camp and enjoying a cozy fire under the stars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find remote camping sites in Vermont's wilderness?

For truly remote wilderness camping in Vermont, the upper meadows of Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 offer secluded sites on former farmland managed by the National Forest Service, though access requires good road conditions. North Green Mountain Camp on Town Road 11 provides backcountry experiences but requires high-clearance 4WD vehicles for access, especially after flooding events. Remote sites typically feature only basic fire rings with no facilities. Look for Forest Service roads marked with FR designations, which often lead to undeveloped backcountry camping areas. The Appalachian Trail/Long Trail corridor also offers wilderness camping opportunities with connector trails like Clark Brook providing access to these remote areas.

What's the difference between boondocking and dispersed camping in Vermont?

In Vermont, boondocking and dispersed camping share similarities but have distinct differences. Dispersed camping, found at sites like Route 100 Dispersed Camping, refers to camping outside of designated campgrounds on public lands (typically Green Mountain National Forest) in established primitive sites with fire rings. Meanwhile, boondocking specifically refers to RV or vehicle camping without hookups or services. Somerset Airfield represents a dispersed area where boondocking is possible, featuring pit toilets but no water or electrical hookups. Both practices require self-sufficiency and Leave No Trace ethics. Vermont boondocking opportunities are limited primarily to Forest Service roads and designated dispersed areas where vehicle access is permitted. Neither option typically provides amenities beyond occasional pit toilets.

Is free camping legal in Vermont?

Yes, free camping is legal in Vermont in designated areas within Green Mountain National Forest. Patterson Brookside camp on West Hill Road offers free riverside camping with both drive-in and walk-in sites. Similarly, Green Mountain National Forest Texas Falls Primative campsites provides free dispersed sites along a brook beyond the day-use area. Be aware that not all apparent camping areas are legal - some may be on private property with no camping signs. Always verify you're on public land before setting up camp. Free sites typically have minimal amenities (just fire rings) and follow a 14-day stay limit. Remember to respect these areas by packing out all trash and following fire safety guidelines.

Where is dispersed camping allowed in Vermont?

Dispersed camping in Vermont is primarily allowed in Green Mountain National Forest, which offers numerous designated dispersed sites. Green Mountain National Forest FR207 provides multiple fire rings in meadow settings with beautiful views. Most dispersed camping follows Forest Service regulations: camp at least 200 feet from water sources, use existing fire rings, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Some areas like Austin Brook offer smaller dispersed camping zones with 4-5 sites alongside rivers. Always check current forest regulations as some areas may have seasonal restrictions, especially during mud season, and be prepared for primitive conditions with no facilities beyond fire rings.