Dispersed camping near Chester, Massachusetts requires exploring neighboring regions due to limited options in immediate proximity. The surrounding Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont offers more reliable dispersed camping sites, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,800 feet across various locations. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F while summer days typically reach the 70-80°F range, with significant precipitation possible year-round.
What to do
Fishing access: Somerset Airfield provides convenient proximity to Somerset Reservoir, a popular fishing destination. According to one camper, "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities."
Hiking trails: The area offers various hiking options with varying difficulty levels. At Hogback Mtn Trailhead, visitors find "a large open lot at top of paved highway pass" that serves as an excellent starting point for trail access.
Water activities: Multiple locations provide water access for recreation. One visitor to NF 83 - riverside described their experience as "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
What campers like
Secluded locations: Many campers appreciate sites offering privacy from neighboring campers. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, visitors noted "At least a dozen spots, some very spacious. Only crashed for 1 night but will be coming back to spend a few, this area was excellent!"
Established fire rings: Several dispersed sites come with pre-built fire pits. One camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1 described it as "This primitive spot is a little more than a clearing with a fire pit. But what a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
Proximity to towns: Many dispersed camping options maintain accessibility to local amenities. A visitor to George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed noted "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to many sites depends on recent weather and vehicle clearance. For NF 83 - riverside, one camper advised "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!"
Site availability fluctuations: During peak periods, finding available dispersed sites can be challenging. One camper at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot reported "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack standard amenities. At Somerset Airfield, a camper noted "No garbage service, no water, no cell service. Basically a camp site where you can share a fire with the neighbors."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection considerations: When camping with children, choosing accessible sites can improve the experience. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, one visitor observed "Different size sites, att cell reception. Mostly clean short drive to pond and stores."
Water access sites: Locations near water features provide natural entertainment for families. One camper described NF 83 - riverside as "This is a nice clearing near the river where the road used to cross."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant weather variation. A camper at Somerset Airfield shared their winter experience: "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."
Tips from RVers
Ground clearance requirements: Many dispersed sites require vehicles with adequate clearance. For NF83 Dispersed site 1, a camper warned "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Seasonal considerations: Winter access requires special preparation. One RVer at Somerset Airfield explained "In the winter be ready for snowmobiles, in the summer trucks."
Site spacing variations: RV accessibility differs significantly between locations. At Somerset Airfield, a visitor noted "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."
