Dispersed camping opportunities around Wendell Depot, Massachusetts primarily extend into Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest, where elevation ranges from 1,500 to 2,500 feet. While Vermont sites require 30-45 minute drives from Wendell Depot, they offer varied terrain from riverside locations to higher elevation clearings. Seasonal conditions significantly impact accessibility, with spring mud and winter snow creating challenges on forest roads.
What to do
Hiking access from camp spots: Forest Road 71 sites provide direct access to multiple trail systems including the Appalachian Trail. One camper at Statton Pond Camp reported, "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT."
Paddling opportunities: Somerset Reservoir offers fishing and paddling within a short drive of many camping areas. A reviewer at Somerset Airfield noted, "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir—saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping."
Dark sky viewing: The remote nature of these sites provides exceptional stargazing conditions. As one camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1 commented, "What a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
What campers like
Site privacy: Many forest sites offer separation from neighboring campers. A reviewer at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot observed, "Peaceful and quiet dispersed camping spot. Large enough for 2-3 vehicles or one large rig/RV. Very few vehicles pass, some days none."
Group accommodations: Some sites can handle larger gatherings. One camper described a spot on Forest Road 71: "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center."
Natural water features: Proximity to streams enhances many camping locations. A visitor to NF 83 - riverside shared, "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Forest access roads can present challenges depending on vehicle clearance. A camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1 cautioned, "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Weather impacts: Rain can significantly affect camping conditions in this region. One camper at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed mentioned, "It had rained a lot prior to our arrival, and several sites were damp."
Campsite maintenance: Free camping near Wendell Depot sometimes requires cleanup. A visitor to Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 noted, "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."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires special preparation. A Somerset Airfield visitor reported, "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 for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites with adequate flat space for family setups. A camper at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot 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!"
Noise factors: Some areas can become busy on weekends and holidays. A Somerset Airfield reviewer warned, "Weekend was interrupted by a domestic violence situation a few sites down that resulted in fights and someone shooting off a handgun. Took state police over 50 minutes to respond and multiple families left."
Bug preparation: Densely wooded sites may have significant insect activity. A visitor to NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot cautioned, "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some forest roads accommodate RVs better than others. A reviewer at Hogback Mtn Trailhead noted, "Great place to stop for the night. Not a lot of ambiance, but plenty of room for any number of rigs."
Clearance considerations: RVers should assess road conditions before attempting access. One camper at NF 83 - riverside advised, "The access into this location is a little rough but most cars should make it, I would prefer having a little more clearance though just to be sure."
Campsite options: Sites vary significantly in size and layout for RVs. A Somerset Airfield visitor 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."
