Primitive camping near Belmont, Vermont occurs primarily within the Green Mountain National Forest where elevations range from 1,000 to 2,500 feet. Winter sites often remain snow-covered through April, while summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F during peak camping months. Forest road access deteriorates significantly after heavy rainfall events, which have become more common in recent years.
What to do
Hiking to water features: Stratton Pond offers excellent hiking opportunities and access to one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail. According to one camper at Stratton Pond Shelter, "The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail."
Fishing and paddling: Somerset Reservoir provides extensive water recreation options within short driving distance of several dispersed sites. A visitor to Somerset Airfield noted, "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities."
Winter recreation: Some sites remain accessible for cold-weather camping with proper preparation. One winter camper described their experience: "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."
What campers like
Isolation from crowds: Sites with proper timing can provide solitude. A visitor to Downed Bridge Camp shared, "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."
Stream and river proximity: Many campers value water access at their sites. One camper at NF 83 - riverside described their spot as "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
Multi-use trail connections: The intersection of major hiking trails provides diverse recreation options. A Stratton Pond Shelter visitor noted, "Great location at the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail... 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."
What you should know
Site cleanliness issues: Many dispersed sites show signs of previous misuse. A camper at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed reported, "Site was littered with places previous campers had left human excrement. While not in the site directly, it was all around it."
Road conditions vary dramatically: Entry points can be challenging for standard vehicles. At NF 83 - riverside, a camper warned, "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!"
Seasonal flooding impact: Many sites become unusable during wet periods. One camper noted, "I've looked at this spot a few times and it is normally way to wet to camp at, but this time it was frozen. This is a nice clearing near the river where the road used to cross."
Tips for camping with families
Arrive early for prime spots: Weekend competition for the best sites can be intense. A visitor to Downed Bridge Camp advised, "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."
Site cleanup responsibilities: Bringing cleanup supplies is essential. A camper at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 shared, "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."
Cellular connectivity: Plan for extremely limited communication. A camper at Somerset Airfield reported, "No garbage service, no water, no cell service," while another noted, "AT.T service at bridge prior to camp- short walk. SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Many primitive sites can accommodate larger vehicles despite rough access. A camper at Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 described, "The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers."
Seasonal conditions: Weather dramatically impacts accessibility. One RVer reported, "Only the first section of the campground was open due to flooding. As a result, there were puddles everywhere."
Fire ring availability: Most sites feature established fire rings as their only amenity. A visitor to Road's End Dispersed Camp described it as "great private spot when nothing else is around. The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles. The only thing you will find here is a fire ring."
