Dispersed camping options near Plainfield, Massachusetts concentrate in the Green Mountain National Forest of Vermont, with most sites situated 20-30 miles northwest. Most primitive camping areas require navigating forest roads with variable conditions. Winter temperatures can drop to single digits with wind chills below zero, while spring brings challenging mud conditions across many forest service roads leading to campsites.
What to do
Explore Somerset Reservoir: At Somerset Airfield, campers have access to water recreation opportunities. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes one visitor who explored the area.
Visit nearby towns: Several camping areas provide good access to local communities. The NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot serves as a convenient base for day trips. According to a camper, "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
Stargazing: Forest locations offer excellent night sky viewing opportunities away from light pollution. One camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1 specifically mentioned this benefit: "But what a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many dispersed camping areas feature generous site dimensions. A visitor to Green Mountain National Forest FR71 noted the practical benefits: "At least a dozen spots, some very spacious. Only crashed for 1 night but will be coming back to spend a few, this area was excellent!"
River access: Several sites offer water features that enhance the camping experience. A camper at NF 83 - riverside described: "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
Privacy between sites: Some camping areas provide good separation between sites. One visitor observed: "I've camped here a couple of times and it is ok. This really is just a grass strip next to FR71 with a bunch of sites and a pit house. It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailor's that can't get into smaller sites."
What you should know
Seasonal road closures: Forest roads frequently close due to conditions or maintenance. A camper at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot 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."
Limited facilities: Most primitive camping near Plainfield offers minimal or no amenities. Somerset Airfield provides basic toilet facilities, but conditions vary: "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service."
Bug pressure: Summer months bring significant insect activity in wooded areas. A visitor to NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot warned: "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Tips for camping with families
Consider campsite layout: Some areas offer better options for family groups. At Somerset Airfield, "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."
Weekend crowding: Popular free camping areas fill quickly during peak periods. One visitor observed: "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot."
Site cleanliness varies: Previous campers sometimes leave trash behind. A camper at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 shared: "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."
Tips from RVers
Ground clearance requirements: Forest roads leading to dispersed sites often have rough sections. As one camper at NF 83 - riverside noted: "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."
Parking surface conditions: Weather significantly impacts site accessibility for larger vehicles. A camper commented: "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."
Overflow options: During busy periods when preferred sites are full, alternatives exist. At Hogback Mtn Trailhead, "Great place to stop for the night. Not a lot of ambiance, but plenty of room for any number of rigs."
