Dispersed camping near West Dover, Vermont offers multiple free sites within the Green Mountain National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,200 feet. Winter temperatures typically range from 5°F to 30°F with summer temperatures between 50°F and 85°F. Many campers report challenging access conditions after rainfall with limited cell service throughout the forest road network.
What to do
Explore Somerset Reservoir: Access paddling and fishing from Somerset Airfield where campers can launch boats at the nearby reservoir. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes one visitor.
Hike portions of the Appalachian Trail: From Stratton Pond Shelter, access both the AT and Long Trail system. "The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter. There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter. The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail."
Visit local breweries: Several craft beverage destinations surround the Forest Road 71 area. "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites," reports a camper at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed.
What campers like
Spacious sites: George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed offers unusually large camping areas. "Large, well organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit," explains one camper. Another notes, "The camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on."
Privacy between sites: Most areas along Forest Road 273 provide sufficient separation between campsites. "Peaceful and quiet dispersed camping spot. Large enough for 2-3 vehicles or one large rig/RV. Very few vehicles pass, some days none," reports one visitor at the NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot.
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. A camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1 describes it as "a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
What you should know
Weather impacts site conditions: Many sites become unusable during wet periods. At Dispersed site along Forest RD 71, a camper noted: "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."
Vehicle clearance requirements: Several areas demand higher clearance vehicles. For NF83 Dispersed site 1, a camper warns, "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Site maintenance varies: User experiences differ based on previous campers. "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," reports a regular at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra supplies: Free camping near West Dover requires complete self-sufficiency. Reviewers consistently mention limited access to services and supplies. "No garbage service, no water, no cell service. Basically a camp site where you can share a fire with the neighbors," notes a camper at Somerset Airfield.
Check site conditions: Several family campsites become problematic after rain. "It had rained a lot prior to our arrival, and several sites were damp. We found a perfect site off the road on the right side," shares a family camper at George D Aiken Wilderness.
Consider noise levels: Hogback Mtn Trailhead provides easier access but less seclusion. "Great place to stop for the night. Not a lot of ambiance, but plenty of room for any number of rigs," reports one visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: The more open areas provide better options for larger vehicles. "This really is just a grass strip next to FR71 with a bunch of sites and a pit house. It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites," explains a camper at Somerset Airfield.
Road conditions matter: Access to remote free camping requires careful route planning. "The entrance to the road had a sign that said 'road closed ahead'. We chanced it and was able to find a really nice open spot right before the road closure," shares an RVer at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot.
Winter preparation essential: For cold-weather RVing, Somerset Airfield provides accessible winter options. "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. So, we tied them to the trees and our cars."
