Dispersed camping near Jamaica, Vermont provides access to the diverse terrain of the Green Mountain National Forest. The region receives significant precipitation year-round, with summer thunderstorms and winter snowfall making seasonal preparedness essential. Many primitive sites require vehicles with adequate clearance, with some forest roads becoming difficult to navigate after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Swimming and paddling at Somerset Reservoir: The reservoir serves as a recreation hub for visitors staying at nearby Somerset Airfield. "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir- saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping," notes reviewer Licia S., who visited on a summer weekday.
Hiking to Stratton Pond: Access to both the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail makes Stratton Pond Shelter a popular destination. "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," explains Miccal M.
Winter recreation: Forest Road 71 offers winter camping opportunities for hardy visitors. According to Miccal M., who camped at Somerset Airfield in winter: "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday... Saturday evening, we had 3" more by 11pm. Then the fun began as the wind blew the storms out and temperatures plummeted to 8⁰ and a windchill of -3."
What campers like
Private camping spots: Several sites on Forest Road 71 provide privacy despite their proximity to roads. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, one camper found "a perfect site off the road on the right side. It was large and flat. We were off the road by 100 feet or so. It made it more private," according to David G.
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location of many primitive sites creates optimal night sky viewing. At NF83 Dispersed site 1, Miccal M. appreciated "a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
Peaceful riverside camping: Several dispersed sites offer direct water access. Thomas and James S. described their experience at NF 83 - riverside: "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to primitive camping near Jamaica requires careful vehicle consideration. At NF 83 - riverside, "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," cautions Thomas and James S.
Site availability fluctuates seasonally: Summer weekends and holidays can fill quickly. Caitlin K. notes about Downed Bridge Camp: "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend."
Weather preparation is essential: Winter conditions demand extra gear. Miccal M. describes winter camping at Somerset Airfield: "Everything crusted was over with a good inch of ice. I have never endured such winds camping, I was sure camp was going to be blown apart."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with easier access: Some areas offer better family-friendly options. M.A.D. P. notes about Somerset Airfield: "The Airfield Campground is a strip of land with several campsites and fire pits. It has pit toilets. These sites are close together with little to no shade. Some sites have access to a stream that flows behind the park."
Plan for bugs in wooded areas: Dense forest sites often have more insects. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, Natasha T. experienced "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Arrive early to secure spots: For weekend camping, early arrival improves site selection. Caitlin K. advises about primitive camping near Jamaica: "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."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations at most sites: Large RVs face challenges at primitive sites. Miccal M. notes about Somerset Airfield: "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 Trailor's that can't get into smaller sites."
Prepare for limited facilities: Even the more developed dispersed sites offer minimal amenities. Kevin C. shares about Somerset Airfield: "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service."
Road closures affect accessibility: Always check current forest road status. Caitlin C. encountered challenges at NFR 273: "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."
