Dispersed camping opportunities exist within driving distance of West Hatfield, Massachusetts, primarily in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest, located 30-60 miles northwest. The region sits at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 feet, creating variable camping conditions throughout the year. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-85°F during day, while spring and fall can bring overnight temperatures below freezing.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Somerset Reservoir near Somerset Airfield offers swimming, kayaking and fishing opportunities. "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping," reports one visitor who noted the site has pit toilets and limited cell service.
Forest exploration: The network of trails throughout Green Mountain National Forest provides hiking options for all skill levels. At NF 83 - riverside, campers can access "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit" positioned "peacefully along the bends of the river," making it ideal for water-focused recreation.
Brewery visits: Free camping areas near George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed provide access to local beverages. As one camper noted, "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed camping area, visitors appreciate the spaciousness. "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," shared one camper.
River access: Many dispersed sites feature water proximity. The NF 83 riverside site is described as "a nice clearing near the river where the road used to cross," offering direct water access.
Well-built fire rings: NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot features established fire rings. One camper noted, "Large, spacious sites with well-organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many free camping areas near West Hatfield requires navigating dirt roads of varying quality. At NF 83, one camper cautioned, "The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks. We have substantial ground clearance so no issues there but smaller ground clearances may feel a bump or two."
Seasonal access limitations: Winter creates challenging conditions at higher elevations. A Somerset Airfield camper shared their experience: "We stayed in the first few sites, there are walk-in sites behind these that have easy river access. In the winter be ready for snowmobiles, in the summer trucks."
Site cleanliness concerns: At Dispersed site along Forest RD 71, a recurring issue has been noted: "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
Trailhead accessibility: For families seeking easy access with minimal hiking, Hogback Mtn Trailhead provides "a large open lot at top of paved highway pass" where there's "plenty of room for any number of rigs."
Restroom availability: While most dispersed sites lack facilities, Somerset Airfield has basic amenities. "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service," reports one camper.
Site selection timing: Arrive early at popular spots. At NFR 273, one visitor noted, "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."
Tips from RVers
Ground clearance requirements: Many free camping areas near West Hatfield present challenges for vehicles with lower clearance. At Somerset Airfield, the sites are described as "flat levels" with "people able to fit their campers," though access roads may require caution.
Space limitations: While dispersed sites exist, many have size constraints. One camper noted that Somerset Airfield might be "good for people who camp with RVs or trailers that can't get into smaller sites," suggesting that larger rigs should research specific options before arrival.
Weather preparedness: Extreme weather can impact RV camping at these sites. A Somerset 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."
