Best Dispersed Camping near Sunderland, VT
Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout Green Mountain National Forest surrounding Sunderland, Vermont. Several primitive sites are located along Forest Roads 71, 83, and 273, where camping is permitted at no cost without reservations. The George D. Aiken Wilderness Dispersed area offers multiple camping locations, while other sites include Somerset Airfield, NF 83 riverside spots, and pull-offs near Stratton Pond. Most sites feature established fire rings but minimal other amenities, following typical Forest Service dispersed camping regulations.
Access to many dispersed sites requires careful navigation on unpaved forest roads with varying conditions. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching more remote locations like NF 83 riverside and NF83 Dispersed site 1, where reviews mention at least 8 inches of clearance is necessary. Several access roads become difficult or impassable during wet conditions or winter months. Forest Road 273 sites can involve rough driving with some campers reporting they "had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot." Most locations lack cell service, water sources, and restroom facilities, requiring visitors to pack in all supplies and practice proper waste disposal.
The region provides access to notable outdoor recreation areas including Somerset Reservoir, Stratton Pond, and connecting trails to the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail. Sites vary in privacy and setting, with some offering riverside locations while others occupy forest clearings. Campers consistently mention the solitude and natural beauty, though some areas become more crowded during summer weekends and holidays. One visitor at George D. Aiken noted that "camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on," while another described a different location as having "no light pollution, cell signal or distractions." Recent reviews indicate some areas experience seasonal closures or access limitations, with visitors encountering "road closed ahead" signs at certain entry points.
