Dispersed camping near Huntington, Massachusetts offers rustic outdoor experiences across the state line into Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest. While primitive sites lack amenities, many feature established fire rings and natural clearings for tent setups. Winter camping requires additional preparation with temperatures frequently dropping below 10°F in January and February, while summer months see higher competition for the limited number of accessible sites.
What to do
Paddling on Somerset Reservoir: The large reservoir sits near several primitive camping locations, providing excellent fishing and non-motorized boating opportunities. At Somerset Airfield, campers can access the reservoir for water activities. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes a reviewer.
Hiking forest trails: Many dispersed sites connect to hiking paths through Green Mountain National Forest. Near Green Mountain National Forest FR71, numerous unmarked trails branch from the main forest roads. The area offers solitude, with one camper noting, "Free camping" with "spotty service" - perfect for those seeking to disconnect.
Winter activities: For cold-weather adventurers, the region transforms with snow. A Somerset Airfield camper shared their experience: "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8 inches of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday... Saturday evening, we had 3 inches more by 11pm. Then temperatures plummeted to 8° and a windchill of -3."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, the separation between camping areas creates a feeling of seclusion. "The camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on," reports a visitor. Another notes the "Beautiful, Quiet and restful!" atmosphere.
Access to local amenities: Despite the primitive camping experience, many sites offer reasonable access to towns. One camper at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed appreciated that "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
Level ground and established sites: Many dispersed camping areas feature naturally level spots. Along NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, campers find "at least a dozen spots, some very spacious." Another reviewer described them as "Large open site just off of Forest Road 273."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Forest roads accessing primitive sites may become challenging after weather events. A camper at NFR 273 noted: "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."
Seasonal popularity fluctuates: Weekends and holidays become unexpectedly busy even in remote areas. One visitor to NFR 273 was surprised, commenting: "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot... Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck."
Bathroom facilities limited: Most dispersed sites have no facilities. Sage's Revine offers basic amenities with one camper reporting it's "Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms."
Wildlife considerations: Bears are active in the region, requiring proper food storage. Somerset Airfield has outhouses but most areas require wilderness bathroom etiquette, with one site unfortunately having "human excrement" issues according to a reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Choose more developed dispersed areas: For family camping, sites with basic facilities prove more manageable. Somerset Airfield provides pit toilets and space for multiple vehicles, though a visitor cautions it's "a strip of land with several campsites and fire pits... These sites are close together with little to no shade."
Plan for insect protection: Wooded areas harbor significant bug populations. One camper at Jug End Dispersed describes it as a "Great spot, I have section hiked the majority of the east coast AT and this is in my top 10 spots to stay at," though proper insect repellent is essential.
Consider noise levels: Some areas experience unexpected activity. At Somerset Airfield, a camper reported their "Weekend was interrupted by a domestic violence situation a few sites down that resulted in fights and someone shooting off a handgun. Took state police over 50 minutes to respond."
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At Hogback Mtn Trailhead, however, there's "plenty of room for any number of rigs" according to a reviewer who called it a "Great place to stop for the night."
Somerset Airfield RV advantages: Though basic, Somerset Airfield works well for recreational vehicles. One camper observed it "is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailor's that can't get into smaller sites," though they personally preferred more secluded options.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies widely throughout the region. At Somerset Airfield, a visitor reported: "AT.T service at bridge prior to camp- short walk. SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here."
