Dispersed camping near Chester, Vermont provides several options for primitive overnight stays in the Green Mountain National Forest. The forest elevation ranges between 900-2,200 feet with seasonal temperatures that can vary dramatically, often dropping below freezing at night even in summer months. Primitive campsites around the Somerset area require careful planning as temperatures can drop significantly, with winter camping areas experiencing snowfall accumulations of 8+ inches overnight.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Somerset Reservoir near Somerset Airfield offers excellent water recreation. A camper noted that they "enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir—saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping."
Hiking access: The Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 provides trail connections to multiple destinations. One visitor mentioned, "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT."
Winter camping: For cold-weather adventurers, some sites remain accessible year-round. Somerset Airfield accommodates winter campers, though preparation is essential. A camper reported their experience: "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up Saturday, and our main Roadhouse down from the weight of the snow."
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The remote NF83 Dispersed site 1 offers exceptional stargazing conditions. A camper appreciated that it was "a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
Spacious group sites: Several locations provide ample room for multiple tents or vehicles. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, a camper found that "Large, well organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit."
Riverside locations: Many primitive sites offer water access. At NF 83-riverside, one camper described it as "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Several forest roads demand high-clearance vehicles. 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 issues: Some locations suffer from poor maintenance by previous visitors. At George D Aiken Wilderness, one camper reported: "Site was littered with places previous campers had left human excrement. While not in the site directly, it was all around it."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies greatly between sites. At Downed Bridge Camp, visitors must plan for limited communication: "AT&T service at bridge prior to camp—short walk. SOS only in camp."
Tips for camping with families
Timing arrivals: Arriving during daylight hours helps families find suitable spots. 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."
Weekend planning: Popular sites fill quickly on weekends, requiring advance planning. One camper at Downed Bridge noted: "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend."
Alternative options: Having backup locations prevents disappointment. A visitor suggested: "But don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10... You don't even have to go to fire road 30."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For larger vehicles, certain areas provide better accommodation. Somerset Airfield offers "Flat levels it's and people able to fit their campers."
Access road challenges: Verify road conditions before attempting RV access. At NF 83-riverside, a visitor cautioned: "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 considerations: Weather changes affect road conditions dramatically. During wet periods, one camper at Branch Pond observed: "Tons of different styles of camping spots (if you get there while its still sunlight you can pick a spot by a flowing stream/river)."
