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Best Dispersed Camping near Amherst Center, MA

26 Reviews

Dispersed camping options near Amherst Center, Massachusetts are limited within the immediate area, with most free primitive camping opportunities located in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest, approximately 60-90 minutes northwest. George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed offers several well-established sites along Forest Road 273, featuring fire rings but no other amenities. Campers note these sites are "spread out from each other" with "a beautifully built fire pit" at some locations. The access road is generally passable for most vehicles, though conditions can deteriorate after heavy rain.

Somerset Airfield and the surrounding forest roads provide additional primitive camping options in the Green Mountain National Forest. This area includes sites near Somerset Reservoir with basic pit toilets but no water or waste services. The Somerset Airfield sites are described as "a grass strip next to FR71 with a bunch of sites and a pit house," while more private riverside dispersed sites can be found along NF 83. Winter access is challenging, with one camper reporting they "endured snow and mid 20s" temperatures. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, and all sites operate on a first-come basis with no reservations or fees.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Amherst Center, Massachusetts (12)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Amherst Center, MA

30 Photos of 12 Amherst Center Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Amherst Center, MA

26 Reviews of 12 Amherst Center Campgrounds

  • M.A.D. P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2023

    Somerset Airfield

    Small open park

    The Airfield Campground is a strip of land with several campsites and fire pits. It has pit toilets. These sites are close together with little to no shade. Some sites have access to a stream that flows behind the park. The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities. There are other dispersed sites down the road that are free

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Somerset Airfield

    Good stopover location

    Only the first section of the campground was open due to flooding. As a result, there were puddles everywhere.

    Campsites are listed as disbursed but there are only 7 trees to separate 9 camp sites. The campsites are all next to the road and have fire circles.

    There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service. Basically a camp site where you can share a fire with the neighbors.

  • Natasha T.
    Jun. 6, 2022

    NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot

    Nice wooded little campsite

    A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well. A few miles down the road there is another campsite that is more open and also has a fire pit with a lot less bugs flying around and more open space.

  • c H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 13, 2023

    George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed

    Cool Spot!

    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. Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites.

  • SJ W.
    Nov. 1, 2024

    NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot

    Beautiful but surprisingly crowded

    Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot. After what was very quiet and a peaceful place to be. Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck. The road itself was in great condition though.

  • licia S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Somerset Airfield

    No Wifi, Resevoir Beautiful

    Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and resevoir- saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping. It's been quiet and peaceful and sometimes generators running all night. I arrived after the 4th of July and a neighbor said it was rowdy during the holiday with illegal fireworks set off every night over the dry forest. These pics are from a weekday morning. It's great to see families camping. There are pit toilets. AT.T service at bridge prior to camp- short walk. SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here.

  • Miccal M.
    Jan. 18, 2024

    NF 83 - riverside

    Quiet spot on the river

    I've looked at this spot a few times and it is normally way to wet to camp at, but this time it was frozen.  This is a nice clearing near the river where the road used to cross.

    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.  

    Being a primitive site there is only a fire ring here.

  • Ricky H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2025

    George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed

    Not terrible

    Site was littered with places previous campers had left human excrement. While not in the site directly, it was all around it. Also had someone who decided to use the area to sight in his rifle. Which was very unexpected as it was incredibly loud with no warning at all. Was not aware this was a gun range. Tried to flag down a park ranger, but he just drove on by.

Guide to Amherst Center

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Amherst Center, Massachusetts, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With various options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Amherst Center, Massachusetts

  • Many dispersed camping spots, like George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, offer a peaceful environment with no fees, allowing you to enjoy nature without breaking the bank.
  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities; for instance, NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot has no drinking water or trash services, so plan accordingly and pack out what you bring in.
  • Look for sites that allow campfires, such as NF 83 - riverside, where you can gather around a fire and enjoy the warmth after a day of exploring.

Dispersed campers should check out George D Aiken Wilderness

  • This area features multiple sites along well-maintained roads, making it accessible for both tents and RVs, as seen at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed.
  • Campers have praised the spaciousness and organization of the sites, with many noting the beautifully built fire pits available for use.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the tranquil surroundings, perfect for spotting local fauna and enjoying the natural beauty of the Green Mountain & Finger Lakes National Forests.

Enjoy the solitude at Somerset Vt Dispersed on the Deerfield River

  • While this location has received mixed reviews, it offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a more secluded experience, as highlighted by the feedback on Somerset Vt Dispersed on the Deerfield River.
  • The area is known for its stunning river views, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure.
  • Be mindful of the private property signs in the vicinity, ensuring you camp only in designated areas to respect local regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Amherst Center, MA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Amherst Center, MA is Connecticut River Farm Site with a 0-star rating from 0 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Amherst Center, MA?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Amherst Center, MA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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