Dispersed camping near Vernon, Vermont offers primitive campsites throughout Green Mountain National Forest where temperatures average 45-75°F in summer and drop below freezing in winter. Forest roads typically open May through October, with seasonal closures due to snow and mud season conditions. Several backcountry sites provide riverside settings for rustic camping experiences.
What to do
Fishing access: Somerset Reservoir provides excellent fishing opportunities a short distance from Somerset Airfield campsites. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," reports one camper.
Hiking trails: Access the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail system from Statton Pond Camp dispersed sites. "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT," notes a visitor who gave the location 4 stars.
Local exploration: Find breweries and distilleries within a 15-minute drive of several dispersed camping areas. A camper at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed notes, "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between primitive sites at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed area. "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," reports one visitor.
River access: Sites near running water are highly valued. A camper at NF 83 - riverside describes their experience: "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
Open clearing camping: Larger groups favor the spacious sites at Forest Road 71. "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center," notes a camper who stayed at Statton Pond Camp.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads require vehicles with good clearance. A visitor to NF 83 notes: "The access into this location is a little rough but most cars should make it, I would prefer having a little more clearance though just to be sure."
Site cleanliness varies: Some locations suffer from previous campers leaving trash. A visitor to Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 reported: "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."
Seasonal mud issues: Spring thaw and heavy rain periods create challenging conditions. One camper noted about Forest Road 71: "This particular campsite is 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."
Tips for camping with families
Cell service availability: Limited connectivity exists at certain sites. At Statton Pond Camp, one camper reported "2 bars of USCellular LTE," while another noted Somerset sites have "SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here."
Fire safety protocols: Be prepared for changing fire regulations. Sites typically have established fire rings, but regulations can change during dry periods. As one NFR 273 camper notes: "Large open site just off of Forest Road 273" with established fire rings, but check current restrictions before lighting fires.
Weekend crowding: Plan for busier conditions on holidays. A Somerset Airfield camper reports: "Westford there last weekend. Got up on a Friday with plenty of spots," but notes it became very busy by the weekend with "10 spaces between the bathrooms."
Tips for RVers
Flat parking areas: NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot provides suitable pull-offs for larger vehicles. "Large enough for 2-3 vehicles or one large rig/RV," notes a visitor who gave the site 5 stars.
Clearance requirements: Forest roads often have rough sections requiring careful navigation. An NF 83 visitor cautions: "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!"
Airfield alternatives: When looking for primitive campsites near Vernon, Vermont that accommodate larger vehicles, consider Somerset Airfield. "It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites," explains a frequent visitor, though they suggest more secluded options if your vehicle can access them.
