Dispersed camping sites near Wells, Vermont offer primitive accommodations within the Green Mountain National Forest. The region encompasses 400,000+ acres of protected wilderness with elevations ranging from 900 to 3,800 feet above sea level. Forest roads typically open in mid-May after mud season subsides, with primitive camping available through early November depending on snowfall.
What to do
Hiking to water features: Several sites provide direct access to swimming and fishing spots. At Branch Pond on National Forest Hwy, campers report "tons of different styles of camping spots (if you get there while its still sunlight you can pick a spot by a flowing stream/river)." The nearby Somerset Reservoir offers paddling opportunities within minutes of rustic camping areas.
AT/LT trail access: Forest Road 71 sites serve as excellent basecamps for hiking the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail. From Stratton Pond Shelter, you can explore "the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail" with tent platforms and bunk spaces available. The shelter sits beside "one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping offers a completely different experience from summer visits. Somerset Airfield campers described a challenging winter trip: "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday, and our main Roadhouse down from the weight of the snow. The stakes didn't hold in the frozen ground."
What campers like
Riverside camping: The natural water features near Wells draw many campers. At NF 83 - riverside, one visitor described "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit" that's "peacefully placed along the bends of the river." This site offers direct water access, though the approach requires care as "the beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks."
Isolation options: For campers seeking privacy, the road network offers increasingly remote sites. At Last light on Michigan Brook, one visitor notes it's "the very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!" Similarly, at Road's End Dispersed Camp, campers appreciate the "great private spot when nothing else is around."
Group-friendly clearings: Some Forest Service roads feature larger sites ideal for multiple tents or vehicles. At Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, visitors found "a very flat and could accommodate several small campers" with "easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering."
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Many access roads require careful navigation. One visitor to NF 83 noted "the road 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." Some sites become completely inaccessible after rain.
Site availability fluctuates: Popular spots fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. At Downed Bridge Camp, a visitor observed "if you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend." Always have backup locations identified.
Stewardship concerns: Maintaining these primitive sites requires visitor cooperation. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, one camper reported a site "was littered with places previous campers had left human excrement. While not in the site directly, it was all around it." Other visitors mention spending "over an hour cleaning the site from the people before us."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection timing: Arriving during daylight hours improves family camping experiences. One visitor recommends "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." This allows evaluation of site conditions and hazards.
Wildlife awareness: Bears frequent these wilderness areas. One camper at Forest Road 71 plainly stated "I did see a huge blackbear." Proper food storage in vehicles or bear canisters prevents unwanted encounters.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. Pack additional layers and rain gear regardless of forecast. One Somerset camper noted dramatic weather shifts: "Saturday, we got at least 8" more along with sleet, freezing rain, and rain. Saturday evening, we had 3" more by 11pm. Then the fun began as the wind blew the storms out and temperatures plummeted to 8° and a windchill of-3."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Small trailers work best in this region. Most rustic camping spots near Wells can accommodate "teardrop" style trailers or small campervans, but larger rigs face significant challenges. Somerset Airfield provides the most accessible sites for RVs, though one visitor noted it's "probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailor's that can't get into smaller sites."
Leveling challenges: Bring substantial leveling blocks for uneven terrain. At Forest Road 71, campers reported "flat levels" that could "accommodate several small campers," but other areas require significant leveling equipment.
Generator restrictions: Most primitive sites prohibit generator use. Battery systems or solar setups provide more appropriate power solutions for rustic camping near Wells, Vermont. One Somerset visitor noted "sometimes generators running all night," indicating potential conflicts between campers over noise.
