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Best Dispersed Camping near Manchester Center, VT

32 Reviews

The Green Mountain National Forest surrounding Manchester Center, Vermont features numerous dispersed camping opportunities along forest roads and trails. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access primitive sites along Forest Road 71, the highly-rated George D. Aiken Wilderness Dispersed camping area, and the Somerset Airfield camping area. Most sites are primitive with basic fire rings but no other amenities. The region also offers backcountry options like Stratton Pond Shelter, accessible via a 3.75-mile hike from the nearest parking area, which provides tent platforms and bunk spaces for hikers on the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the area, with many sites requiring vehicles with adequate clearance. As one camper noted, "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8 inches of clearance under your vehicle." Weather impacts accessibility, particularly during spring thaw and after heavy rainfall when many sites become muddy or impassable. Winter camping is possible but challenging, with one visitor reporting, "We endured snow and mid-20s Friday night with 8 inches of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday." Cell service is spotty throughout the region, with limited coverage at most sites. Campers should bring all necessary supplies as drinking water, toilets, and other facilities are rarely available.

Many dispersed sites receive positive reviews for their privacy and natural settings. Riverside locations like NF 83 are particularly popular, described by one camper as "peacefully placed along the bends of the river" with "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit." The George D. Aiken Wilderness area consistently earns high ratings for its "large, well-organized camping spots" that are "pretty spread out from each other." Visitors frequently mention proximity to recreational opportunities, with Somerset Airfield providing access to Somerset Reservoir for "fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities." During peak seasons, particularly summer weekends, early arrival is recommended as the more accessible sites fill quickly.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Manchester Center, Vermont (23)

    1. Dispersed site along Forest RD 71

    3 Reviews
    Sunderland, VT
    10 miles

    "One of many locations along Forest rd 71, this spot was a good place to pitch a tent for the night while exploring the area even in the rain."

    "There are a few spots around you can park at. I chose a more sunny and open spot with less trees. So there's more options. It's very quiet definitely check it out."

    2. Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71

    2 Reviews
    Sunderland, VT
    9 miles

    "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center. We had this all to ourselves in our Bean teardrop. "

    "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.  There weren't many mosquitoes either. "

    3. Stratton Pond Shelter

    1 Review
    Manchester Center, VT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 747-6700

    "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.  "

    4. Somerset Airfield

    6 Reviews
    West Dover, VT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 388-4362

    "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."

    "I arrived after the 4th of July and a neighbor said it was rowdy during the holiday with illegal fireworks set off every night over the dry forest. These pics are from a weekday morning."

    5. Downed Bridge Camp

    2 Reviews
    Danby, VT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 747-6700

    "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."

    "Great location for a small group to camp at.  Can't wait to go back.  The main area is a walk in and is worth it.  The road into here was easy to drive. "

    6. NF 83 - riverside

    2 Reviews
    West Dover, VT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 362-2307

    "This is a nice clearing near the river where the road used to cross."

    "The left side of the drive in is swampy so be sure to not drift to that side."

    7. George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Wilmington, VT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 747-6700

    "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."

    "It was large and flat. We were off the road by 100 feet or so. It made it more private. I would highly recommend this site. We stopped on our way through to Stowe Vermont."

    8. NF83 Dispersed site 1

    1 Review
    West Dover, VT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 362-2307

    "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle.  "

    9. Green Mountain National Forest FR71

    1 Review
    West Dover, VT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 747-6700

    "Free camping"

    10. NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot

    6 Reviews
    Bennington, VT
    23 miles

    "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."

    "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot. After what was very quiet and a peaceful place to be."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Manchester Center, VT

47 Photos of 23 Manchester Center Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Manchester Center, VT

32 Reviews of 23 Manchester Center Campgrounds

  • The L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 8, 2025

    Ushers Road State Forest

    Trail head

    This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall over the past week.

    About 500 feet down the right-hand trail, there is a smaller path branching off to the left. This leads to a previously used campsite, approximately 200 feet from the main trail. The site includes a stone fire ring, indicating prior use.

    Given that camping is permitted anywhere in the woods as long as it’s at least 150 feet off the trail, the surrounding area offers an abundance of potential camping spots.

  • M.A.D. P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2023

    Somerset Airfield

    Small open park

    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. The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities. There are other dispersed sites down the road that are free

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Somerset Airfield

    Good stopover location

    Only the first section of the campground was open due to flooding. As a result, there were puddles everywhere.

    Campsites are listed as disbursed but there are only 7 trees to separate 9 camp sites. The campsites are all next to the road and have fire circles.

    There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service. Basically a camp site where you can share a fire with the neighbors.

  • Natasha T.
    Jun. 6, 2022

    NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot

    Nice wooded little campsite

    A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well. A few miles down the road there is another campsite that is more open and also has a fire pit with a lot less bugs flying around and more open space.

  • c H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 13, 2023

    George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed

    Cool Spot!

    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. Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites.

  • SJ W.
    Nov. 1, 2024

    NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot

    Beautiful but surprisingly crowded

    Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot. After what was very quiet and a peaceful place to be. Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck. The road itself was in great condition though.

  • Miccal M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 26, 2024

    Green Mountain National Forest FR42 Dispersed Site

    Busy and small sites

    Every time I've driven up Bingo to find a spot I end up leaving the area and going somewhere else.  The sites are small and close to the road.  Being primitive sites there are no facilities.  You will find fire rings at each site though.

  • licia S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Somerset Airfield

    No Wifi, Resevoir Beautiful

    Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and resevoir- saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping. It's been quiet and peaceful and sometimes generators running all night. I arrived after the 4th of July and a neighbor said it was rowdy during the holiday with illegal fireworks set off every night over the dry forest. These pics are from a weekday morning. It's great to see families camping. There are pit toilets. AT.T service at bridge prior to camp- short walk. SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here.

  • Miccal M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 18, 2024

    NF 83 - riverside

    Quiet spot on the river

    I've looked at this spot a few times and it is normally way to wet to camp at, but this time it was frozen.  This is a nice clearing near the river where the road used to cross.

    The access into this location is a little rough but most cars should make it, I would prefer having a little more clearance though just to be sure.  

    Being a primitive site there is only a fire ring here.

Guide to Manchester Center

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Manchester Center, Vermont, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Manchester Center

  • Enjoy a peaceful night under the stars at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, where you can build a campfire and soak in the natural surroundings.
  • Explore the vast trails and scenic views at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, which offers several spacious spots for hiking enthusiasts.
  • Experience the thrill of fishing and paddling at Somerset Airfield, located near the Somerset Reservoir, ideal for water activities.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Manchester Center, Vermont

  • When visiting Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, be prepared for limited amenities; bring your own water and supplies for a comfortable stay.
  • If you're looking for a quieter experience, consider NF 83 - riverside, where you can find a large open grassy area perfect for setting up camp away from the crowds.
  • Keep an eye out for muddy conditions at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71, especially after rain, and choose your spot wisely to avoid getting stuck.

Unique Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • Visit the enchanting Downed Bridge Camp, which offers a secluded area perfect for small groups looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • For those who enjoy hiking, Stratton Pond Shelter provides access to multiple trails, including the Appalachian Trail, making it a great base for outdoor adventures.
  • Experience the charm of Branch Pond on National Forest Hwy, where you can enjoy fishing and picnicking in a serene environment surrounded by nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What permits or regulations apply to dispersed camping in Manchester Center?

No permits are typically required for dispersed camping in Green Mountain National Forest near Manchester Center, but regulations must be followed. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, camping is only permitted in designated areas with existing fire rings. Be aware that some areas marked on maps may actually be private property, as found at Somerset Vt Dispersed on the Deerfield River where no camping signs indicate private land. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, stay within established sites, and check with the local Forest Service office for seasonal fire restrictions.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Manchester, Vermont?

Free dispersed camping is available in the Green Mountain National Forest near Manchester. George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed offers well-spaced campsites along an accessible road with approximately 10 spots. Another good option is Green Mountain National Forest FR71, which provides free camping opportunities. Look for established fire rings at primitive sites. When searching for spots, arrive early during peak seasons as the best locations fill quickly, especially on weekends.

When is the best season for dispersed camping in the Manchester, Vermont area?

The optimal season for dispersed camping near Manchester is late spring through early fall (May-October). Summer offers warm weather but comes with more bugs and crowds. At Somerset Airfield, campsites may be limited due to flooding in spring or after heavy rainfall. Fall brings spectacular foliage and fewer insects. Late October camping at Downed Bridge Camp can be peaceful, though sites fill quickly on weekends even in shoulder seasons. Winter camping is possible but challenging, with some areas like NF 83 - riverside being accessible only when frozen solid.

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