Primitive camping near Hancock, Massachusetts predominantly consists of dispersed sites throughout Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest. Most locations sit at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet, creating challenging weather conditions year-round. These rustic campsites typically feature only basic fire rings and require complete self-sufficiency with proper waste disposal practices.
What to do
Paddling at Somerset Reservoir: Access this large body of water from Somerset Airfield, where campers can enjoy various water activities. One visitor noted: "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities."
Winter camping adventures: For cold-weather enthusiasts, the Green Mountain National Forest offers challenging but rewarding winter camping experiences. At Somerset Airfield, campers should prepare for extreme conditions as described by one visitor: "In the morning when packing up and breaking the ice glazed on everything."
Explore bicycle trails: Ushers Road State Forest provides access to bike-friendly nature trails. A recent visitor shared: "I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall."
What campers like
Well-built fire pits: Many dispersed sites feature established fire rings. At NF 83 - riverside, campers appreciate "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!" While Ushers Road State Forest offers "a stone fire ring, indicating prior use."
Privacy between sites: Unlike the more crowded areas, George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed offers good separation between campsites. A camper noted: "The camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on."
Dark skies for stargazing: Remote locations provide exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. One camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1 highlighted "a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
What you should know
Road and access challenges: Many sites require vehicles with adequate clearance. For NF83 Dispersed site 1, a camper advised: "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Site cleanliness varies: Some campers report needing to clean up after previous visitors. At Dispersed site along Forest RD 71, one regular noted: "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."
Seasonal mud issues: Spring and fall rainfall can make access difficult. A visitor to Forest RD 71 shared: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Platforms for tent setup: For families with young children, Sage's Revine offers stable tent platforms. A camper described: "12 platforms available... 50 feet between platforms. Right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail."
Consider campground density: During busy periods, expect some sites to be occupied. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, one camper found it "Large enough for 2-3 vehicles or one large rig/RV" with "very few vehicles pass, some days none."
Scout for the best sites: With variable terrain, arriving early helps secure ideal spots. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, a camper shared: "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. It was large and flat."
Tips from RVers
Limited options for larger rigs: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. Somerset Airfield might be the best option as one camper noted: "It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailor's that can't get into smaller sites."
Level parking challenges: Finding completely flat parking can be difficult. NF 83 - riverside campers warn: "The left side of the drive in is swampy so be sure to not drift to that side. The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks."
Pre-scout if possible: Road conditions vary significantly by season. A Somerset Airfield visitor explained: "Only the first section of the campground was open due to flooding. As a result, there were puddles everywhere."
Guide
