Primitive camping near Millers Falls, Massachusetts primarily consists of dispersed sites in the southern Green Mountains of Vermont, approximately 40-60 miles northwest. The region's elevation ranges from 800-1500 feet, creating cooler nighttime temperatures even in summer months. Winter access requires 4WD vehicles as many forest roads remain unplowed, with temperatures regularly dropping below 10°F in December through February.
What to do
Hiking access to Stratton Pond: The Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 provides direct access to several hiking trails. "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT," notes a visitor who enjoyed connecting to the Appalachian Trail network from this location.
Swimming at Somerset Reservoir: Located about 5 miles up the road from Somerset Airfield, the reservoir offers excellent swimming during summer months. A camper observed, "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping," making this a natural recreation hub when temperatures rise.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Many of the dispersed camping areas offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. A camper at Statton Pond reported, "I did see a huge blackbear," reminding visitors to properly store food and practice bear safety protocols when camping in this region.
What campers like
Privacy in secluded areas: The Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 offers seclusion despite regular use. "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," mentions a regular visitor who returns annually despite occasional issues.
Well-built fire rings: Many campers appreciate the established fire rings at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, with one visitor noting: "Quaint dispersed camping spot. Peaceful and quiet dispersed camping spot. Large enough for 2-3 vehicles or one large rig/RV. Very few vehicles pass, some days none. Two fire rings set up: a large one and a small cooking one."
Proximity to towns and amenities: Despite being primitive camping, some sites offer relatively easy access to nearby towns. The dispersed camping in Green Mountain National Forest has "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites," according to one camper.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to NF 83 - riverside requires navigating rough terrain. "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," advises one camper who visited during winter. Another notes, "The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies widely across the region. One visitor to Statton Pond reported "2 bars of USCellular LTE" while others found no service at all. Most sites have limited or no connectivity, so download maps and information before arriving.
Private property conflicts: Some areas shown on maps as dispersed camping may actually be private land. The Somerset Vt Dispersed area on the Deerfield River has "No camping signs. Private property," according to a recent visitor who gave it a 1-star rating.
Tips for camping with families
Toilet availability: For families with young children, Somerset Airfield offers basic toilet facilities. "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service," reports a camper, making this one of the few sites with any facilities in the region.
Seasonal considerations: Families should prepare for variable weather conditions. A winter camper at Somerset Airfield experienced "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."
Insect preparation: Parents should pack appropriate bug spray and protection. At one wooded site, a camper reported, "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seem to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Most forest roads require vehicles with adequate ground clearance. At Hogback Mtn Trailhead, there's "plenty of room for any number of rigs" according to one RVer, but the access road quality varies significantly by season and recent weather.
Large gathering options: Some sites accommodate multiple vehicles or larger groups. A visitor to Statton Pond Camp described it as "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center."
Seasonal road closures: RVers should check road status before traveling. One camper 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."
