The Green Mountain National Forest surrounding Bellows Falls, Vermont provides numerous free dispersed camping options across rugged terrain that ranges from 800 to 3,800 feet in elevation. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, while summer nights remain cool even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Several dispersed sites offer creek-side camping with partial shade from northern hardwood forests.
What to do
Paddling on Somerset Reservoir: Access the 1,600-acre Somerset Reservoir from Somerset Airfield for paddling and fishing. "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping," reports one camper who visited on a weekday morning.
Hiking to mountain ponds: The Stratton Pond Shelter provides access to multiple hiking trails. "The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter. There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter. The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail."
Winter camping adventures: The Green Mountain National Forest transforms completely during winter months. "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. So, we tied them to the trees and our cars."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed sites offer significant space between campers. "Large, well organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit," notes one camper. Another mentions, "Different size sites, ATT cell reception. Mostly clean short drive to pond and stores."
Proximity to water features: Many free camping sites near Bellows Falls provide direct water access. "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit," describes one camper at NF 83 - riverside.
Flat camping surfaces: The terrain at many sites is level enough for comfortable tent placement. "The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers. It was quiet during our overnight stay other than a car or two on Stratton-Arlington Rd. There weren't many mosquitoes either. Hiking trail to Stratton Pond close by."
What you should know
Access road conditions vary significantly: Many sites require vehicles with adequate clearance. "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."
Site availability challenges: During peak seasons, finding an open site can be difficult. "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend. But don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10," advises a visitor to Downed Bridge Camp.
Weather impacts camping conditions: Rain creates muddy conditions at many sites. "I found this camping area on dyrt app. 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."
Site maintenance concerns: Camper behavior affects site conditions. "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
Look for sites with water features: Somerset Airfield has both a brook and reservoir that appeals to families. "It's great to see families camping. There are pit toilets. AT&T service at bridge prior to camp - short walk."
Consider alternate locations during holidays: Holiday weekends bring different camping experiences. "I arrived after the 4th of July and a neighbor said it was rowdy during the holiday with illegal fireworks set off every night over the dry forest."
Find sites with outhouses for convenience: The Stratton Pond Shelter area provides outhouse facilities, which can be important for families. "There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter."
Be prepared for primitive conditions: Most free camping near Bellows Falls is truly primitive. "Being a primitive site there is only a fire ring here," notes one camper at Road's End Dispersed Camp.
Tips from RVers
Look for open areas: Somerset Airfield offers better access for larger vehicles. "This really is just a grass strip next to FR71 with a bunch of sites and a pit house. It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites."
RV-friendly locations are limited: The Hogback Mountain Trailhead provides an option for overnight parking. "Great place to stop for the night. Not a lot of ambiance, but plenty of room for any number of rigs."
Ground clearance matters: Access roads to many free camping sites near Bellows Falls require vehicles with higher clearance. "The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks we have substantial ground clearance so no issues there but smaller ground clearances may feel a bump or two!"
Cell service considerations: Limited connectivity affects RVers differently. "SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here," reports a visitor to Somerset Airfield.
