Dispersed camping areas near Wallingford, Vermont offer numerous primitive sites throughout the Green Mountain National Forest. Winter temperatures frequently drop below 10°F, with multiple sites requiring navigation of unmaintained forest roads. Several locations feature seasonal considerations including mud seasons in spring and fall when road conditions deteriorate significantly, requiring alternative camping plans during these periods.
What to do
Kayak at Somerset Reservoir: The reservoir near Somerset Airfield provides paddling opportunities in a remote setting. "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping," notes camper licia S., who visited on weekday mornings when the area was less crowded.
Winter camping adventures: For cold-weather enthusiasts, primitive sites remain accessible with proper preparation. A camper at Stratton Pond Shelter reports: "Spent the weekend here on the last weekend of Feb. 2024. Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods with only the people I hiked in with. It was great!" Winter camping provides solitude but requires carrying supplies 3.75 miles from the nearest winter parking area.
Hiking connections: Forest trails link to major paths including the Appalachian Trail. At Green Mountain National Forest FR207, one camper notes: "Nearby Clark Brook Trail is a 3 mile hike connecting with the AT/LT." This connectivity allows day hikes or extended backpacking trips from established campsites.
What campers like
Privacy variations: Sites offer different privacy levels based on location and vegetation. On the Hill Dispersed Camp provides "a nice size primitive site for a small group" according to Miccal M., who described it as a good clearing with a fire ring. Other locations offer more secluded options.
River proximity: Several campsites feature water access, enhancing the camping experience. At Branch Pond on National Forest Hwy, a visitor recommends: "If you get there while its still sunlight you can pick a spot by a flowing stream/river." These water-adjacent sites fill quickly during summer weekends.
Scenic overlooks: Elevated sites provide views across Vermont valleys. A camper at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 described "multiple fire rings/sites" in the first large meadow, "able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests." These viewpoint sites typically lack shade but compensate with panoramic vistas.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many primitive sites require appropriate vehicles. The upper meadows at Green Mountain National Forest FR207 are "accessible with 4WD/high clearance vehicles," according to Tim M. Several forest roads deteriorate during wet weather, becoming impassable for standard cars.
Limited facilities: Most sites feature only fire rings with no other amenities. At Downed Bridge Camp, a reviewer confirms: "The only thing you will find at this primitive site is a fire ring." Pack all necessary supplies including water and waste disposal bags.
Seasonal challenges: Weather significantly impacts accessibility. One camper at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 warned: "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." Spring thaw and fall rains create difficult conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Arrive early for preferred locations: During peak seasons, secure your site early. 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."
Consider Somerset Airfield for facilities: When camping with children, Somerset Airfield offers basic amenities lacking at most primitive sites. "There are pit toilets. These sites are close together with little to no shade. Some sites have access to a stream that flows behind the park," explains M.A.D. P., making this location suitable for families needing minimal facilities.
Backup plans for weather changes: Vermont weather can change rapidly. Somerset Airfield campers experienced "Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday." Having alternate accommodation options during unpredictable weather protects family camping experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most dispersed areas accommodate small trailers only. A camper at Somerset Airfield noted it "is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites," making it one of few areas suitable for larger setups in the region.
Road condition monitoring: Forest roads vary seasonally, affecting RV access. After rain at Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, Andy M. found "the site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers" but noted many sites farther south were already filled with "TTs holding the space for the upcoming weekend." Calling the ranger district for current conditions prevents access problems.
Cell service availability: Connectivity varies by location. Tim M. reported "2 bars of USCellular LTE" at sites along Green Mountain National Forest FR207, while Branch Pond campers had no service. Limited connectivity affects navigation apps, weather forecasts, and emergency communications.
