Primitive camping near Florence, Massachusetts provides opportunities for outdoor recreation in the Green Mountain and White Mountain National Forests. The region receives approximately 45 inches of annual precipitation with elevation gains up to 2,800 feet in surrounding areas. Winter access to dispersed sites often requires vehicles with higher clearance due to snow accumulation and unmaintained forest roads.
What to do
Paddling at Somerset Reservoir: Access this large body of water from the Somerset Airfield area where campers can launch kayaks and canoes. "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping," notes camper licia S. at Somerset Airfield.
Winter camping exploration: The area supports cold-weather camping with proper equipment. One camper at Somerset described their 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. The stakes didn't hold in the frozen ground."
Hiking on Appalachian Trail sections: Reach hiking access points near the Massachusetts-Connecticut border. A reviewer at Sage's Ravine mentioned, "Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms."
What campers like
Riverside settings: Several campsites offer proximity to moving water. At NF 83 - riverside, a camper described the location as "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
Dark skies for stargazing: Rural dispersed sites provide minimal light pollution. One camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1 noted it has "no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
Well-constructed fire rings: Many primitive sites include established fire pits. "The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit," shared a camper at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed.
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access roads to many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. At NF 83 - riverside, a reviewer cautioned, "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."
Site availability fluctuations: Somerset Airfield experiences varied occupancy patterns. "Got up on a Friday with plenty of spots. 10 spaces between the bathrooms/vault toilets with only 3 other 4 in working order," reported one camper.
Changing regulations: Always verify current camping rules before traveling. A recent reviewer at Jug End Dispersed warned, "This is a hiking trail only- no camping per website: https://www.mass.gov/locations/jug-end-state-reservation-wildlife-management-area."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for space: Look for larger clearing areas for group camping. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, a reviewer mentioned finding "a really nice open spot right before the road closure."
Bug preparation: Dense wooded areas may have persistent insects. One camper warned about NFR 273: "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Weather planning: Temperature variations can be significant, particularly in shoulder seasons. A Somerset Airfield camper described how "temperatures plummeted to 8° and a windchill of -3" during their stay, with equipment becoming ice-crusted overnight.
Tips from RVers
Ground clearance considerations: Forest roads may have obstacles requiring higher-profile vehicles. One camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1 advised, "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Site spacing awareness: Some areas have limited separation between campsites. A Somerset Airfield camper noted, "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."
Seasonal access limitations: Winter conditions may close certain roads or make them impassable. At NFR 273, a camper reported, "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."
