Dispersed camping near Orange, Massachusetts offers accessible backcountry sites throughout the Green Mountain National Forest in neighboring Vermont. Most sites lie along forest service roads at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet, with snow possible from November through April. Camping spots range from isolated clearings to more developed areas with established fire rings, typically accessible via unpaved forest roads that require cautious navigation during wet periods.
What to do
Hiking to water features: From NF 83 - riverside, visitors can explore multiple river trails. "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit," reports Thomas and James S., who recommend exploring the riverbank trails.
Fishing opportunities: Several camping areas provide access to fishing spots within 15 minutes. When staying at Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, campers can take advantage of "good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area," as Tim M. notes, with all these locations offering fishing opportunities.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes the area ideal for night sky viewing. Miccal M. highlights this at NF83 Dispersed site 1, calling it "a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions," perfect for unobstructed views of constellations and occasional meteor showers.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of these sites. One visitor to NF83 Dispersed site 1 values that there are "no distractions" in this primitive spot, which offers little more than "a clearing with a fire pit."
Site variety: The forest provides a range of site types to match preferences. Along NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, Michele N. found "at least a dozen spots, some very spacious," while Danny D. described his site as a "peaceful and quiet dispersed camping spot. Large enough for 2-3 vehicles or one large rig/RV."
Low-cost camping: Free camping throughout the area appeals to budget-conscious travelers. At Green Mountain National Forest FR71, Edwin A. simply stated, "Free camping," highlighting the basic but cost-free nature of primitive camping in this region.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many forest roads require higher clearance vehicles, especially after rain. Miccal M. cautions about NF83 Dispersed site 1: "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Variable road conditions: Access can change dramatically with weather. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, David G. noted: "It had rained a lot prior to our arrival, and several sites were damp. We found a perfect site off the road on the right side."
Limited facilities: Most sites have no amenities beyond fire rings. Kevin C. describes Somerset Airfield: "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service."
Seasonal popularity: Despite remote locations, weekend crowds are common, especially in summer and fall. SJ W. found NFR 273 surprisingly busy: "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for children: Choose sites with flat, open areas for safety and play. At Dispersed site along Forest RD 71, Kirk C. found options for different camping styles: "I chose a more sunny and open spot with less trees. So there's more options."
Site maintenance concerns: Some sites require cleanup before setting up camp. Sandy L. reports: "I would have given 5 stars except for the unfortunate fact that 2 years in a row my husband and I had to spend over an hour cleaning the site from the people before us."
Winter camping preparation: For cold-weather camping, prepare for extreme conditions. Miccal M. describes a winter experience at Somerset Airfield: "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday, and our main Roadhouse down from the weight of the snow."
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate only smaller RVs and trailers. Andy M. found Statton Pond Camp suitable but limited: "The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers."
Site spacing considerations: RV campers should note proximity between sites. At Somerset Airfield, Kevin C. observed: "Campsites are listed as disbursed but there are only 7 trees to separate 9 camp sites. The campsites are all next to the road and have fire circles."
Early arrival recommended: Secure preferred sites by arriving mid-week. One camper at Hogback Mtn Trailhead notes it's a "great place to stop for the night. Not a lot of ambiance, but plenty of room for any number of rigs."
