Primitive camping near Waterford, New York consists primarily of sites in the Green Mountain National Forest of Vermont, roughly 30-45 minutes east of Waterford. Elevations in this area range from 1,200 to 2,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night, even in summer. Cell service throughout these dispersed camping areas varies dramatically, with many visitors reporting "SOS only" in camps but better reception at nearby bridges or elevated points.
What to do
Paddling at Somerset Reservoir: Located near Somerset Airfield, this large body of water offers excellent kayaking and swimming opportunities. A camper noted: "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir- saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping."
Stargazing without light pollution: The remote NF83 Dispersed site 1 provides exceptional night sky viewing. According to one visitor: "But what a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
Winter camping experiences: For the adventurous, Somerset Airfield offers unique winter camping opportunities. A camper described: "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. The stakes didn't hold in the frozen ground."
Hiking nearby trail systems: The forest areas provide access to established trail networks including the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail. As one visitor at Statton Pond Camp mentioned: "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT."
What campers like
Fire rings at most sites: Many of the dispersed camping areas come equipped with established fire rings, as noted at NF 83 - riverside: "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
Group camping opportunities: Several sites accommodate larger gatherings. One camper at Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 described: "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center."
Proximity to local attractions: Beyond the camping itself, the area offers access to other recreational facilities. A camper at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed noted: "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
Seasonal differences in experience: Each season brings unique conditions to these primitive camping areas near Waterford. In fall, one visitor at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot shared: "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot. After what was very quiet and a peaceful place to be."
What you should know
Variable ground conditions: Wet conditions significantly impact site accessibility and usability. At Somerset Airfield, a visitor noted: "Only the first section of the campground was open due to flooding. As a result, there were puddles everywhere."
Limited facilities: These primitive camping areas typically offer minimal or no amenities. As one camper at Somerset Airfield explained: "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service."
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many sites require vehicles with adequate ground clearance. For NF83 Dispersed site 1, a camper warned: "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Site maintenance concerns: Prior visitors don't always practice Leave No Trace principles. One camper at 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."
Tips for camping with families
Consider accessibility: Some sites are more suitable for families than others. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, a camper reported: "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!"
Prepare for bugs: Insect activity varies by location and season. One visitor warned about a site: "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Look for streamside sites: Children often enjoy water features. At NF 83 - riverside, a visitor described: "This is a nice clearing near the river where the road used to cross."
Check road conditions before arrival: Forest roads can become challenging, especially after rain. A camper at NFR 273 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."
Tips from RVers
Site size variations: Not all dispersed sites accommodate larger vehicles. At Statton Pond Camp, a reviewer noted: "The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers."
Road access challenges: Forest roads vary in quality. One visitor to NF 83 - riverside cautioned: "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."
Limited privacy between sites: At some locations, sites offer little separation. A Somerset Airfield camper 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."
Generator policies: While most primitive camping sites don't have specific rules about generators, noise carries in forest settings. Some areas experience noise issues, as one camper at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed mentioned: "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir- saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping. It's been quiet and peaceful and sometimes generators running all night."
