Dispersed camping near North Bennington, Vermont offers multiple options in the Green Mountain National Forest where elevations range from 1,200 to 2,500 feet. Seasonal conditions vary dramatically, with mud season typically lasting from mid-March through May, making many forest roads challenging or impassable. Winter camping requires specialized gear as temperatures frequently drop below 0°F.
What to do
Hiking access: The NFR 273 Dispersed Camping area provides convenient access to multiple hiking trails. "Large open site just off of Forest Road 273," notes Matthew D., making it an excellent basecamp for day hikes.
Paddling opportunities: Somerset Airfield camping area sits near Somerset Reservoir. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," reports M.A.D. P.
Winter recreation: Forest roads transform into snowmobile routes during winter months. Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 provides excellent winter camping options. "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT," notes Tim M.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Most dispersed sites offer significant isolation. At Dispersed site along Forest RD 71, Kirk C. reports, "It's very quiet definitely check it out."
Dark sky viewing: The remote forest location provides excellent stargazing. Regarding the NF83 Dispersed site, one camper noted it had "no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
Multiple site options: George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed camping area offers various options. "Large, well organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit," explains Tam E. Another camper added, "The camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on."
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Mud season drastically affects accessibility. "It had rained a lot prior to our arrival, and several sites were damp," reports David G. about the George D Aiken area. Another camper noted about a different site, "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."
Limited facilities: Most sites offer no amenities beyond fire rings. At NF 83 - riverside, Thomas and James S. found "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit," but no other facilities.
Increasing popularity: Competition for sites rises during peak seasons. "At least a dozen spots, some very spacious," notes Michele N. about NFR 273, though weekends and holidays fill quickly.
Tips for camping with families
Toilet access: Stratton Pond Shelter offers designated facilities. "There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter," reports Miccal M.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly by location. At Statton Pond Camp, Tim M. found "2 bars of USCellular LTE," while other areas have no service.
Site cleanliness: Previous campers sometimes leave trash. "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," notes Sandy L. about Forest RD 71.
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Several forest roads require higher-clearance vehicles. "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," says Miccal M. about the riverside location.
Level parking spots: Branch Pond on National Forest Hwy offers "tons of different styles of camping spots (if you get there while its still sunlight you can pick a spot by a flowing stream/river)," according to Brendan M.
Group camping options: For larger RV gatherings, consider Statton Pond Camp. "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering," notes Tim M.
