Dispersed camping near Lee, Massachusetts offers accessible wilderness experiences within New England's forested terrain. The region sits at the intersection of the Berkshire Mountains and Taconic Range, with elevations ranging from 800 to 2,600 feet. Most primitive sites remain snow-covered from December through March, with limited maintenance during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Swimming and paddling at Somerset Reservoir: Located near Somerset Airfield, this large body of water provides excellent recreation opportunities. A camper noted: "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities."
Mountain biking on established trails: The trail network at Ushers Road State Forest accommodates cyclists of various skill levels. "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side," one visitor reported.
Winter camping for experienced outdoors people: For those prepared for extreme conditions, some sites remain accessible year-round. At Somerset Airfield, one camper described: "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."
What campers like
Secluded riverside spots: NF 83 - riverside offers peaceful water access away from crowds. "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!" one camper shared, though cautioning about the approach: "The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks."
Lakeside camping options: Primitive sites surrounding Echo Lake allow for direct water access. A visitor explained: "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze." The terrain provides natural separation between sites, though some navigation is required: "Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)."
Well-established dispersed sites: The Green Mountain National Forest features numerous free camping areas with basic amenities. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, campers appreciate the organization: "Large, well organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit."
What you should know
Seasonal site availability fluctuates: Weather conditions affect campsite access throughout the year. One NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot visitor reported: "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."
Campsite privacy varies significantly: Some areas provide more seclusion than others. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, a visitor observed: "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."
Pack in all supplies: Most sites lack amenities beyond fire rings. At Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park, camping requires preparation: "If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites with facilities: Somerset Airfield provides basic amenities important for family camping. "There are pit toilets. No garbage service, no water, no cell service," reported one visitor.
Consider weather impact on site conditions: Families should monitor recent precipitation before arrival. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, a camper observed: "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."
Bring insect protection: Multiple sites report significant bug activity, especially in wooded areas. One camper at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot experienced: "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Tips from RVers
High clearance recommended for access: Many forest roads require appropriate vehicles. At NF 83 - riverside, a camper advised: "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."
Limited designated RV spots available: Free camping near Lee, Massachusetts includes few dedicated RV areas. At Somerset Airfield, one visitor noted: "It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailor's that can't get into smaller sites, but if you can I would go some where else."
Site selection timing matters: Popular free camping areas fill quickly during peak seasons. "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot," reported one NFR 273 visitor.
