Dispersed camping near Springfield, Vermont provides primitive backcountry camping opportunities throughout Green Mountain National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,500-2,500 feet. These free camping sites typically feature clearings with established fire rings accessed via forest roads of varying quality. Vermont's seasonal conditions significantly impact site accessibility, with spring mud and winter snow limiting access to higher elevation locations.
What to do
Hiking to Stratton Pond: Access hiking trails directly from several dispersed camping areas near Springfield. Stratton Pond Shelter offers tent platforms at the end of a 3.75-mile winter hike. According to one camper, "The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter... The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail."
Fishing opportunities: Somerset Reservoir provides excellent fishing access near camping areas. One visitor at Somerset Airfield notes: "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping." The reservoir is accessible by a short drive from most dispersed sites.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Springfield support diverse wildlife including bears. At Statton Pond Camp, a camper reported: "Easy to get to, had service the whole time, fire pits for every spot. I did see a huge blackbear."
What campers like
River access: Many campers value waterfront sites. At NF 83 - riverside, one camper shared: "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!" River proximity provides cooling options during summer months.
Seclusion from crowds: Despite proximity to established recreation areas, many dispersed sites offer privacy. A camper at Downed Bridge Camp noted: "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend. But don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10..."
Campsite variety: The Springfield region offers diverse dispersed camping options for different group sizes. One camper at Statton Pond Camp described: "This was a great site. I couldn't believe that the site was not being used at all, especially just a couple of days before Fourth of July weekend... The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest roads in the Springfield area require adequate vehicle clearance. A visitor to NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot explained: "Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck. The road itself was in great condition though."
Site maintenance: Be prepared to clean up after previous visitors. Several campers note this responsibility, including one who stayed at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed who shared: "Site was littered with places previous campers had left human excrement. While not in the site directly, it was all around it."
Limited facilities: Most free camping near Springfield lacks amenities. A reviewer of Road's End Dispersed Camp reported: "Great private spot when nothing else is around. The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles. The only thing you will find here is a fire ring."
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: For camping with children, look for sites with more open space and designated fire rings. George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed offers larger clearings suitable for family setups. A visitor noted: "Different size sites, att cell reception. Mostly clean short drive to pond and stores."
Bug preparation: Dense forest areas around Springfield can have significant insect populations. One camper at NFR 273 mentioned: "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well." Consider sites with more airflow for family comfort.
Arrival timing: Arriving during daylight hours helps families find suitable sites. 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."
Tips from RVers
Ground clearance requirements: RV campers should carefully evaluate vehicle clearance for forest roads. At NF 83 - riverside, a visitor warned: "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 sizing: Several dispersed areas can accommodate multiple small trailers or a larger RV. One camper at Somerset Airfield explained: "Flat levels it's and people able to fit their campers. Campers near us said there are more sites if you pass the airfield that are more spread out past the actual airfield sites."
Winter considerations: Winter camping with an RV requires special preparation. A Somerset Airfield visitor shared: "Everything crusted was over with a good inch of ice. I have never endured such winds camping, I was sure camp was going to be blown apart. Even with a winter fly tight to the snow my hammock was rocking all night."
