Primitive camping options near Royalston, Massachusetts primarily extend into Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest. This region offers elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,900 feet with forest roads cutting through dense mixed hardwood forests. Most dispersed sites sit between 1,500-2,500 feet elevation where night temperatures can drop 15-20 degrees lower than surrounding towns even in summer months.
What to do
Hiking access: Sites along Forest Road 71 provide easy trail connections to several notable destinations. "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT," notes one camper at Statton Pond Camp.
Water activities: Somerset Reservoir offers extensive paddling and fishing opportunities from camps in the area. "The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail," explains a winter visitor to Stratton Pond Shelter, which requires a 3.75-mile hike from parking in winter months.
Winter exploration: Several sites remain accessible for cold-weather adventures. One camper at Somerset Airfield describes their experience: "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
Site spacing: Many dispersed sites provide reasonable separation despite their proximity to forest roads. At George D Aiken Wilderness, campers appreciate the layout: "I believe I have the last of 4 sites. Nice camp fire area," and "Large, well organized camping spots along the road."
River proximity: Several locations offer streamside camping with natural white noise. At NF 83 - riverside, one visitor describes: "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
Solitude opportunities: Lesser-known sites provide quieter experiences. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, campers note: "Very few vehicles pass, some days none" and "Peaceful and quiet dispersed camping spot."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access varies significantly by site and recent weather. "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," reports one visitor to NFR 273.
Site competition: Weekend crowding affects even remote locations. A camper at Somerset Airfield states: "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot."
Site maintenance issues: User stewardship varies across locations. One visitor at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 notes: "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 for camping with families
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be significant in the Green Mountains. "It had rained a lot prior to our arrival, and several sites were damp," reports one camper at George D Aiken Wilderness, who still managed to find "a perfect site off the road on the right side."
Wildlife awareness: Large mammals are present throughout the region. A camper at Statton Pond Camp reports: "I did see a huge blackbear," emphasizing the importance of proper food storage.
Campsite selection: Some sites offer better setups for family camping. "Large open site just off of Forest Road 273" and "At least a dozen spots, some very spacious" describe the options at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Many forest roads have limitations for larger vehicles. At NF 83 - riverside, a camper advises: "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."
Seasonal timing: Mud seasons (spring and fall) can limit access significantly. "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," cautions a visitor to Dispersed site along Forest RD 71.
Site capacity: Some dispersed areas can accommodate multiple vehicles or larger rigs. The Statton Pond Camp site is described as "a great site... very flat and could accommodate several small campers," making it suitable for group camping with smaller RVs or trailers.
