Best Dispersed Camping near Pownal, VT
Several dispersed camping options exist in the Green Mountain National Forest near Pownal, Vermont. Free primitive sites are concentrated along Forest Roads 71, 83, and 273, with the George D. Aiken Wilderness area containing multiple established dispersed camping locations. These sites typically feature simple clearings with fire rings but lack amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Somerset Airfield provides one of the few dispersed areas with vault toilets, though most sites are completely primitive.
Forest roads accessing these camping areas range from well-maintained to rough and rutted. Many locations require vehicles with higher clearance, particularly after rainfall when sites can become muddy and difficult to navigate. FR 273 has multiple pull-offs for camping, though seasonal road closures may restrict access to some areas. "The road itself was in great condition though," noted one camper about FR 273, while another mentioned "sites were damp" after rainfall in the George D. Aiken Wilderness area. Most areas have fire rings, and campfires are generally permitted when no fire restrictions are in place. Cell service is extremely limited throughout these remote camping areas.
Camping experiences vary across these locations. The George D. Aiken Wilderness dispersed sites receive consistently positive reviews for their privacy and spaciousness. "Large, well organized camping spots along the road," described one visitor. Sites along FR 273 can become crowded during peak seasons, with one camper noting they "had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot." The Somerset Airfield area offers a different experience with more open sites along a grassy strip, providing easy access to Somerset Reservoir for fishing and paddling. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the region, and the lack of light pollution makes for excellent stargazing opportunities from most camping locations.
