Primitive camping near Salem, New York offers access to several backcountry sites within Green Mountain National Forest. The Vermont border region typically receives 40-50 inches of annual precipitation, creating variable ground conditions throughout the camping season. Most dispersed sites sit at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet, contributing to cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, especially during spring and fall camping periods.
What to do
Hiking to Stratton Pond: Access Stratton Pond Shelter via a 3.75-mile trail from the nearest parking lot. One camper describes it as a "great location at the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail" where you can enjoy "Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods." The shelter offers 16 bunk spaces, two tent platforms, and two outhouses.
Paddling at Somerset Reservoir: Located near Somerset Airfield, the reservoir provides water recreation opportunities. A visitor notes, "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping." The site offers no Wi-Fi, with cell service limited to "AT&T service at bridge prior to camp - short walk. SOS only in camp."
Winter camping: For cold-weather enthusiasts, many dispersed sites remain accessible with proper preparation. During February camping at Stratton Pond Shelter, temperatures drop significantly, as one visitor experienced the "last weekend of Feb. 2024. Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods."
What campers like
Privacy levels: George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed offers more secluded camping options. Visitors note that "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." Another camper appreciated finding "a perfect site off the road on the right side. It was large and flat. We were off the road by 100 feet or so."
Fire rings: Many sites feature well-established fire pits. At NF 83 - riverside, campers find "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit" along the river bends. Similarly, at Statton Pond Camp, visitors describe "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center."
Solitude: The remote nature of these sites appeals to those seeking quiet. At NF83 Dispersed site 1, a camper appreciated the "great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions." For better odds of securing solitude, timing matters - as one camper at Downed Bridge Camp noted, it "fills quickly on a weekend."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access varies significantly by site and weather conditions. For NF83 Dispersed site 1, "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle." At NF 83 riverside, "The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks" though "most cars should make it."
Site availability challenges: During peak periods, finding open sites requires flexibility. At NFR 273, even midweek in autumn means competition: "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot." Many pull-offs were "too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck."
Weather impacts: Rain and snow significantly affect site conditions. At Forest RD 71, a camper found "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." Winter brings additional challenges with snow accumulation and ice.
Tips for camping with families
Site cleanliness concerns: Some locations require cleanup before setting up camp. At Dispersed site along Forest RD 71, one camper noted: "2 years in a row my husband and I had to spend over an hour cleaning the site from the people before us." Pack trash bags and gloves for potential cleanup needs.
Consider Somerset Airfield for facilities: Families appreciate the basic amenities here, including pit toilets. A visitor described it as having "10 spaces between the bathrooms/vault toilets with only 3 other 4 in working order." However, note that the sites are "close together with little to no shade."
Bug preparation: Dense wooded areas harbor significant insect populations. At NFR 273, campers experienced "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well." Consider more open sites with better airflow for fewer insects.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate site selection: For larger rigs, Downed Bridge Camp offers more accessible options. "If you're looking for the ideal spot to stay a few days make sure you show in daylight so you can explore for that." The main area requires walking in "and is worth it," according to experienced campers.
Level parking considerations: At Statton Pond Camp, the site features "a great site. I couldn't believe that the site was not being used at all, especially just a couple of days before Fourth of July weekend." The reviewer noted it was "very flat and could accommodate several small campers."
Generator-free environment: Most primitive sites near Salem prohibit generators, requiring self-sufficient power solutions. Somerset Airfield sometimes has exceptions, with one camper noting, "It's been quiet and peaceful and sometimes generators running all night."
