Dispersed camping areas in Green Mountain National Forest offer rustic camping near Bennington, Vermont. Most primitive sites sit at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet, creating cooler microclimates than surrounding valleys. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-80°F during day and drop into the 50s at night, with higher humidity levels after rainfall creating challenging conditions for campers without proper equipment.
What to do
Paddle Somerset Reservoir: The 1,600-acre reservoir provides excellent fishing and paddling opportunities. A camper at Somerset Airfield noted: "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities."
Hike nearby trail systems: Access points to Appalachian Trail and Long Trail segments are within 15-30 minute drives. At Statton Pond Camp, a visitor mentioned: "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT."
Visit local breweries: Several campsites provide convenient bases for visiting area breweries. A camper at George D Aiken Wilderness shared: "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
What campers like
Private riverside spots: Many sites offer water access away from crowds. At NF 83 - riverside, a camper described: "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."
Varied terrain options: Campers appreciate the diversity of site types. A visitor to NFR 273 noted: "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!"
Dark night skies: Remote locations provide excellent stargazing opportunities. One camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1 shared: "What a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Many access roads deteriorate after rain or during spring thaw. A reviewer at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 warned: "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."
Vehicle clearance requirements: Some primitive sites require high-clearance vehicles. At NF83 Dispersed site 1, a visitor cautioned: "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Seasonal closures: Forest roads close temporarily during wet periods. A camper at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot reported: "The entrance to the road had a sign that said 'road closed ahead'. We chanced it and was able to find a really nice open spot right before the road closure."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites with pit toilets: Limited facilities make some areas better for family camping. Somerset Airfield provides basic amenities: "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service."
Pack for variable weather: Mountain weather changes quickly, requiring preparation. A winter camper described: "Saturday, we got at least 8" more along with sleet, freezing rain, and rain. Saturday evening, we had 3" more by 11pm. Then the fun began as the wind blew the storms out and temperatures plummeted to 8° and a windchill of -3."
Verify site status first: Some areas have restrictions that aren't well-marked. A camper at Somerset Vt Dispersed warned: "No camping signs. Private property."
Tips from RVers
Measure clearances in advance: Low-hanging branches and rough roads challenge RVs. A camper at NF 83 mentioned: "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!"
Weekend planning essential: Open sites fill quickly during peak seasons. A visitor to NFR 273 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."
Consider designated areas for larger rigs: Somerset Airfield accommodates larger vehicles better than remote sites. One camper noted: "It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailor's that can't get into smaller sites, but if you can I would go some where else."
