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Best Dispersed Camping in Vermont

70 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Green Mountain National Forest offers numerous dispersed camping sites along forest roads throughout Vermont. FR207 and FR71 provide access to primitive campsites with established fire rings but no amenities. Most sites are drive-in with some requiring a walk, and visitors should be prepared for variable road conditions. A recent review noted, "About 12 sites off National Forest Road 71. Beautiful area and very secluded. All have fire rings but that's about it."

Road conditions can significantly impact accessibility, particularly during mud season when even high-clearance vehicles may struggle. Several locations feature riverside camping options with multiple pull-offs, while others occupy meadows with mountain views. A camper wrote, "The road into the site was scenic and beautiful. We followed the river all the way to the very end of the road up on the mountain." Pack-in, pack-out principles apply, as no trash services, drinking water, or toilets exist at most locations except Somerset Airfield, which provides basic toilet facilities. Sites near Route 100 have conflicting reports about camping permissions, with some reviews indicating no camping signs have been posted.

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Best Dispersed Sites in Vermont (33)

    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. Austin Brook

    7 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."

    4. 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."

    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. Route 100 Dispersed Camping

    6 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."

    7. 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."

    8. Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71

    3 Reviews
    Sunderland, VT

    "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center. We had this all to ourselves in our Bean teardrop. "

    "The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers.  It was quiet during our overnight stay other than a car or two on Stratton-Arlington Rd.  There weren't many mosquitoes either. "

    9. NF 83 - riverside

    3 Reviews
    West Dover, VT
    Website
    +1 (802) 362-2307

    "This is a nice clearing near the river where the road used to cross."

    "The left side of the drive in is swampy so be sure to not drift to that side."

    10. 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."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos in Vermont

78 Photos of 33 Vermont Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in Vermont

70 Reviews of 33 Vermont Campgrounds

  • Miccal M.
    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

  • Miccal M.
    Jun. 2, 2021

    Austin Brook

    Great Primative Location

    I didn't get the chance to camp here, it was full when I drove through looking for a place. So I came back later in the weekend for pictures. Great location, easy access, on a nice brook. Fire ring only, no facilities and minimal parking.

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.

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