Dispersed camping near Pawlet, Vermont concentrates along forest roads in the Green Mountain National Forest, typically at elevations between 1,200-2,500 feet. These primitive sites experience significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs averaging 75°F and winter lows frequently below 0°F. Winter accessibility becomes challenging after November due to unmaintained forest roads that accumulate heavy snowpack.
What to do
Riverside fishing access: At NF 83 - riverside, campers enjoy direct water access from a clearing where a road once crossed. One visitor noted, "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!" The site offers good fishing opportunities, though the access road has "bigger rocks" that may challenge vehicles with low clearance.
Winter snowmobiling: Forest roads transform into snowmobile trails during winter months. At Somerset Airfield, winter campers should "be ready for snowmobiles" according to a reviewer who camped there in extreme conditions: "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."
Wildlife spotting: Many campsites offer good wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper at Stratton Pond Camp reported, "I did see a huge blackbear." Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk, so plan accordingly and store food properly.
What campers like
Remote star-gazing: NF83 Dispersed site 1 provides exceptional night sky viewing with "no light pollution, cell signal or distractions." The site is primitive but worth the journey for astronomy enthusiasts, though it requires vehicles with "more than 8" of clearance."
River swimming holes: Many campers appreciate the water access at Branch Pond on National Forest Hwy where "if you get there while its still sunlight you can pick a spot by a flowing stream/river." The site offers "tons of different styles of camping spots" allowing for varied experiences.
Hiking trail access: Stratton Pond Shelter sits "at the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail" making it ideal for hikers. One visitor shared, "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."
What you should know
Site preparation challenges: At Dispersed site along Forest RD 71, campers have reported cleanup issues: "2 years in a row my husband and I had to spend over an hour cleaning the site from the people before us." Pack cleaning supplies and extra garbage bags.
Mud and accessibility issues: Spring and fall bring significant mud challenges. One camper at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 warned it was "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."
Holiday crowds: Free camping sites fill quickly on holidays. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, weekends see higher usage rates, but the area offers "Large, well organized camping spots along the road" with sites that are "all pretty spread out from each other."
Tips for camping with families
Clear site selection timing: For families with young children, arriving early ensures finding suitable sites. At Downed Bridge Camp, a reviewer noted that "if you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend."
Bathroom planning: Most dispersed sites lack facilities, but Somerset Airfield has "pit toilets" though one camper mentioned "only 3 other 4 in working order." Bring portable toilet options for young children.
Local entertainment options: For family activities during poor weather, the George D Aiken Wilderness area has "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: RVers should consider Somerset Airfield which "is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailor's that can't get into smaller sites." The airfield provides "flat levels" where people are "able to fit their campers."
Road condition alerts: Forest road quality varies drastically. At Road's End Dispersed Camp, "The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles." Another camper noted this site offers good privacy "when nothing else is around."
Generator etiquette: While generators are permitted at some sites, campers at Somerset Airfield report mixed experiences with noise: "It's been quiet and peaceful and sometimes generators running all night." Use generators sparingly during daylight hours.
