Dispersed camping near Tully Lake, Massachusetts requires driving 60-90 miles to Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont, where elevation ranges from 1,800 to 3,000 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below 10°F, while summer typically ranges from 45-75°F. The forest road network provides access to numerous primitive sites with varying degrees of privacy and roadside accessibility, though seasonal conditions can limit access.
What to do
Hiking nearby: Multiple trails connect to dispersed camping areas along Forest Road 71, with easy access to Stratton Pond and the Appalachian Trail. At Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, camper Tim M. noted "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT."
Paddling and fishing: Somerset Reservoir offers opportunities for kayaking and fishing just a short drive from several dispersed sites. At Somerset Airfield, one camper observed "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping."
Wildlife viewing: The remote forest setting provides opportunities to spot native wildlife. Brendan M. at Statton Pond Camp reported, "I did see a huge blackbear," highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas offer substantial space between camping spots. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, Michele N. mentioned "At least a dozen spots, some very spacious. Only crashed for 1 night but will be coming back to spend a few, this area was excellent!"
Well-established fire rings: Most dispersed sites feature established stone fire rings. Tim M. at Statton Pond Camp described "Stone fire ring in the center. We had this all to ourselves in our Bean teardrop."
Peace and quiet: The remote setting provides a quiet camping experience with minimal noise. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, Evan M. commented "Great spot for quiet desolate camping. Several spots to choose from."
Night skies: Light pollution is minimal in these remote areas. Miccal M. at NF83 Dispersed noted "what a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many forest roads require higher clearance vehicles. At NF 83 - riverside, Thomas and James S. cautioned "The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks. We have substantial ground clearance so no issues there but smaller ground clearances may feel a bump or two!"
Site availability by season: During peak summer months, arrive early to secure preferred sites. Kevin C. at Somerset Airfield observed "Only the first section of the campground was open due to flooding. As a result, there were puddles everywhere."
Pack in all necessities: No services or amenities are available at these dispersed sites. c H. at George D Aiken Wilderness noted "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. Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Miccal M. at Somerset Airfield recounted winter camping: "Then the fun began as the wind blew the storms out and temperatures plummeted to 8° and a windchill of -3 for this morning. Everything crusted was over with a good inch of ice."
Tips for camping with families
Consider Somerset Airfield for facilities: This is one of the few dispersed areas with pit toilets. M.A.D. P. described "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."
Bring water purification: Streams and rivers require treatment before drinking. SJ W. at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot noted "Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck. The road itself was in great condition though."
Plan for limited cell coverage: Communication options are limited in the forest. Tim M. at Statton Pond Camp mentioned "2 bars of USCellular LTE," but coverage varies significantly by carrier and location.
Visit nearby towns for supplies: Several small towns within 15-20 minute drives offer resupply options. David G. at George D Aiken Wilderness shared "We stopped on our way through to Stowe Vermont," indicating the proximity of towns.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. Andy M. at Statton Pond Camp noted "The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers."
Camp early on weekends: Holiday weekends fill quickly with reserved spots. Andy M. added "I couldn't believe that the site was not being used at all, especially just a couple of days before Fourth of July weekend. Many other sites further south on 71 were filled and some were just TTs holding the space for the upcoming weekend."
Consider Hogback Mountain for easier access: Hogback Mtn Trailhead offers a large open parking area accessible to larger vehicles. Boulder T. described it as a "Large open lot at top of paved highway pass. Great place to stop for the night. Not a lot of ambiance, but plenty of room for any number of rigs."
