The Green Mountain National Forest surrounding Manchester, Vermont spans approximately 400,000 acres of diverse terrain, with elevations ranging from 900 to 4,000 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero degrees Fahrenheit, while summer nights remain cool even during July and August. Dispersed camping areas in this region typically receive between 40-60 inches of annual precipitation, making site conditions variable throughout camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing at Somerset Reservoir: Located near Somerset Airfield, the reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities. One visitor noted, "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities."
Explore Stratton Mountain trails: The area provides access to popular hiking routes including the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail. A camper at Stratton Pond Shelter shared, "Great location at the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail... The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote nature of many sites creates optimal conditions for night sky viewing. At NF83 Dispersed site, one visitor observed it was "a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer good separation between campsites. A visitor to George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed commented, "We 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."
Multiple site options: The forest roads contain numerous potential camping spots. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, a camper noted, "At least a dozen spots, some very spacious. Only crashed for 1 night but will be coming back to spend a few, this area was excellent!"
River access: Several sites offer proximity to water features. One camper at NF 83 - riverside described it as "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access roads can deteriorate significantly after rainfall. A camper at NF 83 - riverside cautioned, "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 facilities: Most dispersed sites contain only basic amenities. At Somerset Airfield, a visitor reported, "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service."
Previous camper impact: Site conditions can vary based on prior use. One camper at Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 shared, "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center."
Seasonal availability: Weather significantly impacts access to free camping near Manchester, Vermont. A winter camper reported, "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday, and our main Roadhouse down from the weight of the snow."
Tips for camping with families
Find flatter locations: For easier family setup, seek level sites. A visitor to George D Aiken Wilderness noted, "Large, well organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit."
Consider proximity to water features: Kids often enjoy riverside locations. One camper described NF 83 - riverside as "a nice clearing near the river where the road used to cross."
Early arrival recommended: Secure better family-friendly spots by arriving during daylight hours. A camper at Downed Bridge Camp 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."
Bug management important: Dense forest areas can have significant insect activity. One visitor to NFR 273 reported, "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Tips from RVers
Site capacity variations: Different areas accommodate various vehicle sizes. At Somerset Airfield, a visitor noted it "is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites."
Clearance requirements: Rough roads demand adequate vehicle ground clearance. An NF83 Dispersed site visitor cautioned, "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Timing considerations: Holiday weekends create competition for limited RV-suitable sites. At NFR 273, one camper observed, "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot."
Wet conditions assessment: Free camping spots near Manchester often become challenging during wet periods. A visitor to Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 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."
