Primitive camping near Averill Park, New York centers primarily on nearby Vermont locations within the Green Mountain National Forest, with most sites situated 40-60 minutes away. The forest elevation ranges from 900-2,000 feet, creating varied microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the season. Dispersed sites typically have established fire rings but lack formal amenities such as running water or waste facilities.
What to do
Hiking and fishing access: At Stratton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, campers gain excellent hiking routes. "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT," notes one visitor who appreciated the connectivity to major trail systems.
Water recreation opportunities: Just north of Somerset Airfield, you can access Somerset Reservoir for paddling and swimming. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," according to a recent camper who found multiple recreation options.
Mountain biking: Forest roads near dispersed camping areas offer mountain biking opportunities with varied terrain. While some areas become marshy after rain, the higher elevation sites generally drain better and provide firmer riding surfaces year-round.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: NF 83 riverside offers waterfront access that campers enjoy. "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!" reports a visitor who appreciated the natural setting.
Remote woodland settings: The primitive sites near NF83 Dispersed Site 1 appeal to those seeking isolation. "This primitive spot is a little more than a clearing with a fire pit. But what a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions," explains one camper who valued the disconnection.
Large group areas: Several sites can accommodate multiple vehicles or larger gatherings. "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center," reports a visitor at Stratton Pond Camp who utilized the space for a group setup.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many primitive sites require higher clearance vehicles. At NF83 Dispersed Site 1, a camper advises, "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Seasonal mud challenges: Spring and after heavy rainfall, low-lying areas become problematic. At Dispersed site along Forest RD 71, a visitor reported, "This particular campsite is very muddy. Well, at least today it is. I have an SUV and I didn't trust it to get through, and I didn't want to get stuck."
Cleanliness varies significantly: Some campers report needing to clean sites upon arrival. "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," noted a regular at Forest RD 71.
Site availability fluctuations: During peak season, especially around holidays, sites fill quickly. "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot," reported a visitor to Vermont's dispersed camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with established facilities: For families, Somerset Airfield offers basic amenities that can make primitive camping more manageable. "The Airfield Campground is a strip of land with several campsites and fire pits. It has pit toilets," notes a visitor who appreciated the minimal but useful facilities.
Weather preparation essential: Temperature variations can be significant, particularly at higher elevations. "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," reported a winter camper at Somerset Airfield.
Insect protection: Wooded sites near water often have significant insect activity. "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well," warned a camper at one Vermont site, suggesting families bring multiple insect repellent options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection criteria: For RVs, George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed offers suitable options. "Large, well organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit. It was a little muddy from rain," notes a visitor who found the space accommodating despite conditions.
Campsite spacing considerations: At certain locations, proximity to others varies seasonally. "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," reported a visitor who appreciated the layout.
Water management: Many RVers note that site conditions can change rapidly with weather. "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. It was large and flat," shared someone who successfully navigated wet conditions.
