Dispersed camping opportunities in Green Mountain National Forest near Londonderry, Vermont typically remain accessible from late spring through fall, with most forest roads closed during winter months. Many campsites sit at elevations between 1,200-2,500 feet, creating temperature variations that can drop 10-15 degrees below nearby towns. Several camping areas provide strategic access points to the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail system without requiring permits.
What to do
Fishing access points: Somerset Reservoir near Somerset Airfield offers excellent fishing opportunities. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes one visitor who gave the location 5 stars.
Winter camping experiences: For adventurous winter campers, Somerset Airfield transforms during snowy months. "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday... Then the fun began as the wind blew the storms out and temperatures plummeted to 8° and a windchill of -3," reported one winter camper who still managed to enjoy their stay.
Star gazing opportunities: NF83 Dispersed site 1 provides exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "What a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions," explains one camper, highlighting the remote appeal for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Privacy levels between sites: The George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed area features well-spaced camping spots. "The camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on. There were only about 10 spots along the access road," notes one camper who appreciated the separation between sites.
Arrival timing flexibility: Camping at Downed Bridge Camp works even for late arrivals. "Showing up in the dark and waking up in the forest was a little magical," one camper reported, though they 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."
Flat terrain for multiple setups: Some sites accommodate larger groups with level ground. At Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, a camper noted: "The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers. It was quiet during our overnight stay other than a car or two on Stratton-Arlington Rd."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites offer only basic amenities. At Somerset Airfield, "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service," explains one visitor.
Site conditions vary seasonally: Many sites experience significant mud during wet periods. At Dispersed site along Forest RD 71, a camper 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."
Previous camper impacts: Site cleanliness depends on previous visitors. At Somerset Airfield, a camper observed: "Lots of trash left in fire pits and all along river." Another visitor at George D Aiken noted: "Site was littered with places previous campers had left human excrement. While not in the site directly, it was all around it."
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for children: Stratton Pond Shelter provides family-friendly water access. "The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail," notes a winter visitor who hiked in from the parking area.
Weekday vs. weekend crowds: For quieter family camping, avoid holiday weekends. One Somerset Airfield visitor recounted: "Weekend was interrupted by a domestic violence situation a few sites down that resulted in fights and someone shooting off a handgun. Took state police over 50 minutes to respond and multiple families left."
Connectivity limitations: Prepare for limited or no cell service. At NF 83 riverside, visitors enjoy "no light pollution, cell signal or distractions," while at George D Aiken, campers report "ATT cell reception" is available.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Several sites have challenging access roads. For NF83 Dispersed site 1, a camper warns: "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Level sites for larger rigs: Some locations offer flat areas for RVs. At NF 83 - riverside, campers find "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit," though the access has challenges: "The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks."
Best access routes: Many forest roads require careful navigation. At George D Aiken, campers report "the road was easy to drive on," making it accessible for most vehicles, while another noted: "Some sites were really wet but we found a nice dry place."
