Dispersed camping near Cropseyville, New York offers primitive sites primarily located in state forests and Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont. The region has an average elevation of 500-1,000 feet with pronounced seasonal changes—summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F while winter drops to 10-30°F. Camping conditions vary significantly between seasons with late spring bringing muddy forest roads and summer often bringing dense mosquito populations in wooded sites.
What to do
Hiking to water features: Access Branch Pond from dispersed sites along Forest Road 71, where camping areas serve as trailheads. "I was here in winter, but I would expect in summer a lot of undergrowth in the woods, if your hammock camping bring a manchette to clear a spot," notes a NF83 Dispersed site 1 visitor.
Swimming opportunities: Somerset Reservoir provides swimming spots during summer months. A camper at Somerset Airfield observed "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and resevoir- saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping. It's been quiet and peaceful and sometimes generators running all night."
Long-distance trail access: Many Green Mountain sites connect to major trails. A visitor to Statton Pond Camp noted, "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT."
What campers like
Secluded camping circles: Some sites feature large open areas suitable for group camping. "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center," reports a camper at Statton Pond Camp.
River proximity: Multiple sites feature direct water access. At NF 83 - riverside, a reviewer describes "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit! The left side of the drive in is swampy so be sure to not drift to that side."
Dark night skies: The remote location provides exceptional stargazing. A camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1 appreciated the "great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
What you should know
Road conditions vary drastically: Access roads often deteriorate after rain. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, a camper reported "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."
Vehicle clearance requirements: Some sites need high-clearance vehicles. A reviewer warned about NF83 Dispersed site 1: "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Site maintenance issues: Some locations suffer from previous campers' negligence. At Dispersed site along Forest RD 71, someone noted "2 years in a row my husband and I had to spend over an hour cleaning the site from the people before us."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for children: Choose areas with established campsites away from water hazards. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, a camper found "Large, well organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit."
Nearby town amenities: Several Vermont locations have nearby resources. One visitor noted George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed has "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
Weather preparedness: Be ready for rapid weather changes. A winter camper at Somerset Airfield described "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
Large rig locations: Some sites specifically accommodate bigger vehicles. At Branch Pond on National Forest Highway, a camper found "Tons of different styles of camping spots (if you get there while its still sunlight you can pick a spot by a flowing stream/river)."
Level parking areas: Several sites offer flat surfaces suitable for campers. A visitor to Statton Pond Camp observed "The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers."
Site spacing considerations: Proximity to other campers varies greatly. A Somerset Airfield reviewer cautioned "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."
