"When you camp, never camp where anyone else has camped.
When you move on, leave no trace that you have been there."

Many areas of state land are available for primitive, or "no trace" camping, free of charge. Primitive camping means camping in a forest with no developed facilities and leaving the site with little or no evidence of human visitation.

Lands designated for primitive camping are usually in areas with difficult access. No facilities are provided and there are no designated water supplies. Primitive camping is a remote camping experience in a forested setting, not a wilderness experience. Expect to find evidence of human activity ranging from recreational trails, to past logging activity, to remnants of the land's past use.

Primitive camping is also available during the winter. Extra precautions and planning are necessary to address cold weather concerns. Access restrictions apply to most primitive camping areas due to unplowed roads and lack of plowed parking areas.

No amount of regulation will protect our state forest land unless each of us makes a personal effort to lessen our impact. Practicing "no trace" primitive camping techniques and being thoughtful about your camping activities are a good way to start.

Please contact our District Offices for additional camping information.

Recommended primitive camping practices:

Primitive camping is allowed within designated areas of selected state lands.

Camping must be at least 100 feet from any stream or body of water, 200 feet from any trail or property line, and 1000 feet from any travelled road.

Camping is allowed up to three consecutive nights in the same area.

Groups of eleven or more individuals must obtain a permit from the District Office in order to primitive camp.

Only dead and down trees or branches may be used for firewood.

Camping above 2500 feet in elevation is prohibited unless otherwise designated.

We require one responsible adult for every 4 campers under the age of 14.

If you carry it in - carry it out!

Leave your campsite so clean that no one else can find it.

The use of backpacker stoves with self-contained fuel is urged.

Some areas have remote leantos for overnight camping.

For additional Vermont primitive camping opportunities and information contact:

Green Mountain National Forest

U.S. Forest Service

231 North Main Street

Rutland, Vermont 05701

(802) 747-6700

The Green Mountain Club

RR #1, Box 650 Route 100

Waterbury Center, VT 05677

(802) 244-7037