Dispersed camping near Ludlow, Vermont occurs primarily in the Green Mountain National Forest where primitive sites sit at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet. National Forest roads become challenging during spring thaw, typically from late March through early May when frost heaves and mud create difficult driving conditions. These unimproved sites function under a 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period.
What to do
Fishing access points: Somerset Reservoir, located near Somerset Airfield, provides extensive fishing opportunities. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes reviewer M.A.D. P.
Winter camping experiences: For cold-weather enthusiasts, Forest Road 71 areas remain accessible through winter. One camper at Somerset Airfield described their winter stay: "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 8° and a windchill of -3."
Stream-side relaxation: Multiple sites feature water access, providing natural amenities. At NF 83 - riverside, campers enjoy "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!" according to Thomas and James S.
What campers like
Secluded end-of-road sites: Remote locations offer privacy away from busier areas. At Road's End Dispersed Camp, one camper noted it's a "great private spot when nothing else is around. The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles."
Morning surprise views: Arriving after dark can yield unexpected scenery. At Downed Bridge Camp, one camper shared: "But ours was a night stop on a trip so showing up in the dark and waking up in the forest was a little magical."
Woodland stream sounds: Riverside sites provide natural white noise for sleeping. Thomas and James S. describe one location as "Enchanting" where campsites are "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river."
What you should know
Site closures increasing: Rangers have been closing some overused sites. At dispersed sites along Forest Road 71, one camper observed: "I would have given 5 stars except for the unfortunate fact that 2 years in a row my husband and I had to spend over an hour cleaning the site from the people before us."
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads range from easy to challenging. At NF 83 - riverside, a reviewer cautions: "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!"
Limited communication: Cell service depends on carrier and location. At Somerset Airfield, a camper reported: "AT&T service at bridge prior to camp- short walk. SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here."
Tips for camping with families
Pack rain gear year-round: Vermont weather changes rapidly. One camper at Statton Pond Camp noted their site "was a good place to pitch a tent for the night while exploring the area even in the rain."
Plan for no facilities: Most dispersed sites have fire rings only. A reviewer at On the Hill Dispersed Camp clarifies: "Being a primitive site, expect that it is a little rough to get into. The only thing you will find in this clearing is a fire ring."
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Downed Bridge Camp advised: "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend."
Tips from RVers
Limited level spots available: Many Forest Service roads have uneven terrain. At Stratton Pond Shelter, accessibility requires planning as it's "a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter."
Airfield provides open space: Somerset Airfield offers the most level terrain. A camper describes it as "a strip of land with several campsites and fire pits. These sites are close together with little to no shade."
Avoid mud season: Spring conditions make many roads impassable for larger vehicles. One camper found a site "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."
