Primitive camping near South Londonderry, Vermont offers numerous options throughout the Green Mountain National Forest. The area sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with surrounding mountains reaching over 3,700 feet, creating dramatic temperature variations between day and night even in summer months. Dispersed sites typically receive 40-50 inches of annual precipitation, with many forest roads becoming difficult to navigate during spring thaw and after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several dispersed camping areas provide stream and reservoir access. At Somerset Airfield, campers can easily reach Somerset Reservoir where "plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities" exist according to reviewer M.A.D. P.
Winter camping adventures: The forest transforms into a challenging winter landscape ideal for cold-weather enthusiasts. Miccal M. described an intense winter experience at Somerset Airfield: "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday... Saturday evening, we had 3" more by 11pm. Then the fun began as the wind blew the storms out and temperatures plummeted to 8⁰."
Hiking from campsites: Many locations serve as ideal baseposts for accessing major trail systems. The Stratton Pond Shelter sits at "the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail" according to Miccal M., who also notes it's "a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed area gets high marks for site separation. Reviewer c H. notes, "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."
Wildlife sightings: The remote locations provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. At Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, camper Brendan M. reported: "Easy to get to, had service the whole time, fire pits for every spot. I did see a huge blackbear."
Night sky quality: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. Describing the NF83 Dispersed site, Miccal M. appreciated "a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Forest Service roads vary dramatically throughout the year. At NF 83 - riverside, Thomas and James S. caution about access: "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!"
Site maintenance responsibilities: Previous campers don't always follow Leave No Trace principles. Sandy L. reported at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71: "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."
Variable cell coverage: Connectivity fluctuates throughout the region. At Downed Bridge Camp, Caitlin K. suggests arriving "in daylight so you can explore for that ideal spot" since cell service is limited or nonexistent at many locations.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for group gatherings: Some areas specifically accommodate larger family groups. Andy M. describes one site on Forest Rd 71 as "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."
Toilet availability: Most dispersed sites lack facilities, but select locations offer basic amenities. Kevin C. notes at Somerset Airfield: "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service."
Arrival timing strategies: Weekends fill quickly in summer months. At Downed Bridge Camp, Caitlin K. advises: "Note that fills quickly on a weekend. 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."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many primitive camping sites require significant ground clearance. For the NF83 Dispersed site, Miccal M. warns: "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Best options for larger rigs: Limited sites accommodate RVs or trailers. Miccal M. suggests Somerset Airfield is "probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailor's that can't get into smaller sites," though he personally recommends other locations if you have more flexibility.
Weather preparedness: Rapidly changing conditions can create challenges for RV campers. At Somerset Airfield, one camper noted significant rain led to "puddles everywhere" with "only the first section of the campground was open due to flooding."
