Dispersed camping near Island Pond, Vermont offers primitive experiences for outdoor enthusiasts seeking seclusion beyond established campgrounds. The terrain features dense northern forests with elevations ranging between 1,200-1,800 feet, creating cooler nighttime temperatures even in summer. Most locations have no amenities beyond fire rings, requiring complete self-sufficiency for overnight stays.
What to do
Hiking at Cherry Mountain: Access the Cherry Mountain trail directly from several dispersed camping spots. "Great location with access to the Cherry Mountain trail, and back down to Ammonoosuc Falls back down near Rt. 302," notes a camper at Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed.
Fishing opportunities: Many sites provide access to waterways for fishing. At Guyot Shelter, one visitor mentioned, "Amazing views from some of the platforms, easy access to water, friendly park managers." The nearby river sites offer good fishing opportunities for anglers.
Swimming holes: Several dispersed camping areas feature swimming spots. "Right near a great swimming hole and the twin mountains. It is quiet, the sites are far apart," notes a camper about Haystack Road camping options.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Dispersed camping areas often provide good separation between campers. At Hogan Road Pulloff, a visitor noted it was "amazing lil spot, a pull off the wild rocky road. very private. right next to a serene view of the lake."
Wildlife viewing: The primitive nature of these sites increases chances for wildlife encounters. At Cherry Mountain Road, one camper described "it was so quiet I could hear the sound of crow wings flapping as they flew by."
Proximity to trails: Many dispersed sites serve as base camps for extensive hiking networks. A Guyot Shelter visitor explained: "We got to the site, claimed our platform and hiked over to West Bond to catch a beautiful sunset. Bear box located at a communal 'cooking area' and cold spring water located at the site."
What you should know
Preparation required: No amenities means bringing everything needed. One Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping visitor advised, "Do not rely on cell phone trail maps, there is little to no reception trail on the trails. Use a downloadable GPS map like a Gaia GPS, or a Garmin type device."
Site security concerns: Some campers report issues with gear security. A Haystack Road visitor cautioned, "Quiet area not far from the main road and a bunch of trailheads, but beware of people stealing camping gear. I left out gear to claim a spot while out hiking and came back to people having stolen some of it."
Seasonal considerations: Road access varies throughout the year. "This road is closed in winter and will open in late spring after the road has dried out and any repairs have been made. In 2019, it opened in mid-June," noted one camper about road conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites with appropriate terrain for children. At Cherry Mountain Road, one visitor recommended "We stayed on site #5 because it was flat, sunny, grassy and had a little brook."
Food storage: Wildlife encounters require proper food management. A camper warned, "Wildlife like bear and moose will visit you at night. it's almost a certainty, keep your food locked in a bear tight container."
Water sources: Identify sites near water for easier logistics. "The first few sites on the left have a small stream behind them, it'll make your stay a little easier. Bathing, dishes, etc.," suggests one Haystack Road visitor.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most primitive sites near Island Pond have size restrictions. At Moscow Recreation Park, a visitor noted, "Large sporting field car park suitable for big dogs," indicating space for larger vehicles.
Road conditions: Unpaved roads can present challenges. One visitor at Hogan Road described, "About 1km (.6 miles) of gravel road, easy enough for a big road bike, but don't go any further as it gets rough."
Site terrain: Look for level spots for parking. "A few were small and could just fit a tent and a car, where some offered more space. Some offered a bit of privacy into the woods while most were right along the road," explained a Cherry Mountain Road camper describing the varied terrain options.
