Top Free Dispersed Camping near West Stockbridge, MA

Want to go dispersed camping near West Stockbridge? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of West Stockbridge's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near West Stockbridge, MA (14)

    • No image available

      1. Jug End Dispersed

      2 Reviews
      36 Saves
      • Pets
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Somerset Airfield
      Camper-submitted photo from Somerset Airfield
      Camper-submitted photo from Somerset Airfield
      Camper-submitted photo from Somerset Airfield
      Camper-submitted photo from Somerset Airfield
      Camper-submitted photo from Somerset Airfield

      3. Somerset Airfield

      5 Reviews
      59 Photos
      82 Saves

      Forest Road 71: This forest road stretches from the old Somerset airfield to the Kelley Stand Road. Campsites can be found in various spots along the way and along some of the forest roads leading off of Forest Road 71.

      There are many general forest areas available on the Green Mountain National Forest for rustic or dispersed camping. These areas provide a place to camp and enjoy nature’s solitude at no charge. Visitors can camp anywhere on the forest unless the area is posted closed to camping. Camp in existing sites or stay the strongly recommended 200 feet from roads, streams, trails, and bodies of water to disperse impact. Do not cut any vegetation. There is a camping limit of 14 days in any 30-day period on the Forest. Please leave the campsites clean by using Leave No Trace Principles, such as carry out what you carry in.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • ADA Access
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Group
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake

      4. Echo Lake

      1 Review
      3 Photos
      113 Saves
      • Fires
      • Dispersed
      • Firewood Available
      • Alcohol
      • No image available

        5. Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

        2 Reviews
        69 Saves

        The 917-acre Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Area is one of the largest state forests in Dutchess County. Most trails on this property allow multiple uses. It is very popular with mountain bikers, horseback riders, and dog walkers. Please be respectful of all users. Primitive Camping Camping at two designated sites is permitted on a first-come-first-serve basis. They're located on the west side of Brockway Road, south of Tyrrel Road. At-large primitive camping is also allowed. At-large campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • Tents
        • Group
        • Dispersed
        • No image available

          6. Green Mountain National Forest FR71

          1 Review
          68 Saves

          Forest Road 71: This forest road stretches from the old Somerset airfield to the Kelley Stand Road. Campsites can be found in various spots along the way and along some of the forest roads leading off of Forest Road 71. There are many general forest areas available on the Green Mountain National Forest for rustic or dispersed camping. These areas provide a place to camp and enjoy nature’s solitude at no charge. Visitors can camp anywhere on the forest unless the area is posted closed to camping. Camp in existing sites or stay the strongly recommended 200 feet from roads, streams, trails, and bodies of water to disperse impact. Do not cut any vegetation. There is a camping limit of 14 days in any 30-day period on the Forest. Please leave the campsites clean by using Leave No Trace Principles, such as carry out what you carry in.

          • RVs
          • Tents
          • Dispersed
          Camper-submitted photo from NF 83 - riverside
          Camper-submitted photo from NF 83 - riverside
          Camper-submitted photo from NF 83 - riverside
          Camper-submitted photo from NF 83 - riverside
          Camper-submitted photo from NF 83 - riverside
          Camper-submitted photo from NF 83 - riverside

          7. NF 83 - riverside

          2 Reviews
          18 Photos
          53 Saves

          Backcountry camping is allowed in most locations on the forest unless there is a specific closure order in place for a particular area.

          The following camping practices are recommended:

          Locate campsites at least 200’ from trails or waterbodies including ponds, rivers, and streams When able, utilize sites already managed for overnight use including designated tent platforms and established shelters Do not camp in alpine or sub-alpine areas where trees are 8’ or less. Help protect these fragile ecosystems!

          • Fires
          • RVs
          • Tents
          • Standard (Tent/RV)
          • Dispersed
          • No image available

            8. NF83 Dispersed site 1

            1 Review
            8 Saves

            Backcountry camping is allowed in most locations on the forest unless there is a specific closure order in place for a particular area.

            The following camping practices are recommended:

            Locate campsites at least 200’ from trails or waterbodies including ponds, rivers, and streams When able, utilize sites already managed for overnight use including designated tent platforms and established shelters Do not camp in alpine or sub-alpine areas where trees are 8’ or less. Help protect these fragile ecosystems!

            • Fires
            • RVs
            • Tents
            • Standard (Tent/RV)
            • Dispersed
            • No image available

              9. Somerset Vt Dispersed on the Deerfield River

              1 Review
              8 Saves

              Backcountry Camping (Dispersed Camping)

              Backcountry camping is allowed in most locations on the forest unless there is a specific closure order in place for a particular area.

              The following camping practices are recommended:

              Locate campsites at least 200’ from trails or waterbodies including ponds, rivers, and streams
              When able, utilize sites already managed for overnight use including designated tent platforms and established shelters
              Do not camp in alpine or sub-alpine areas where trees are 8’ or less.  Help protect these fragile ecosystems!

              ​Please follow the principles of leave no trace:

              Plan Ahead and Prepare
              Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
              Dispose of Waste Properly
              Leave What You Find
              Minimize Campfire Impacts 
              Respect Wildlife
              Be Considerate of Other Visitors
              • Pets
              • RVs
              • Tents
              • No image available
              Showing results 1-10 of 14 campgrounds

              Recent Dispersed Reviews In West Stockbridge

              19 Reviews of 14 West Stockbridge Campgrounds


              • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from Somerset Airfield
                Aug. 30, 2024

                Somerset Airfield

                Good stopover location

                Only the first section of the campground was open due to flooding. As a result, there were puddles everywhere.

                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.

                There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service. Basically a camp site where you can share a fire with the neighbors.

              • Thomas and James S.The Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from NF 83 - riverside
                Jun. 12, 2024

                NF 83 - riverside

                Enchanting

                Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit! The left side of the drive in is swampy so be sure to not drift to that side. 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! Live by the motto leave nicer than you found it so we all can continue to enjoy the beauty!

              • Miccal  M.The Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from Somerset Airfield
                Mar. 29, 2024

                Somerset Airfield

                Winter camping wonder

                Well, that was an experience! Met some friends Friday night at the Somerset Airfield for a weekend of camping. 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. So, we tied them to the trees and our cars. Saturday, we got at least 8" more along with sleet, freezing rain, and rain. Saturday evening, we had 3" more by 11pm.

                 Then the fun began as the wind blew the storms out and temperatures plummeted to 8⁰ and a windchill of-3 for this morning. Everything crusted was over with a good inch of ice. I have never endured such winds camping, I was sure camp was going to be blown apart. Even with a winter fly tight to the snow my hammock was rocking all night. Our tarps held mostly, we only lost one or two anchor points. Gear that wasn't staked, tied or put in our cars moved blown around inside our foxholes of snow.

                In the morning when packing up and breaking the ice glazed on everything.

                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.

                As I've stated in my other review for this location, there are outhouses here and firerings.  It is an easy dirtroad drive to get to this location, that is why they tend to be used so much by RVers.

              • Miccal  M.The Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from Somerset Airfield
                Mar. 1, 2024

                Somerset Airfield

                Least favorite of all the primitive sites in the area

                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, but if you can I would go some where else.

              • Miccal  M.The Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from NF 83 - riverside
                Jan. 18, 2024

                NF 83 - riverside

                Quiet spot on the river

                I've looked at this spot a few times and it is normally way to wet to camp at, but this time it was frozen.  This is a nice clearing near the river where the road used to cross.

                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.  

                Being a primitive site there is only a fire ring here.

              • Miccal  M.The Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from NF83 Dispersed site 1
                Jan. 18, 2024

                NF83 Dispersed site 1

                Nice remote location

                This primitive spot is a little more than a clearing with a fire pit.  But what a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions.  Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle.  

                I was here in winter, but I would expect in summer a lot of undergrowth in the woods, if your hammock camping bring a manchette to clear a spot.

              • m
                Camper-submitted photo from George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed
                Oct. 8, 2023

                George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed

                Beautiful, Quiet and restful!

                It was getting dark when we arrived and it had been raining all day. We just needed a night and it was great. Some sites were really wet but we found a nice dry place.

              • DThe Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed
                Sep. 27, 2023

                George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed

                Nice Night

                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. It was large and flat. We were off the road by 100 feet or so. It made it more private. I would highly recommend this site. We stopped on our way through to Stowe Vermont.

              • Erica M.The Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from Somerset Airfield
                Aug. 2, 2023

                Somerset Airfield

                Nice spot but to busy

                Westford there last weekend. Got up on a Friday with plenty of spots. 10 spaces between the bathrooms/vault toilets with only 3 other 4 in working order. Great location near Somerset Reservoir. Weekend was interrupted by a domestic violence situation a few sites downbeat resulted in fights and someone shooting off a handgun. Took state police over 50 minutes to respond and multiple families left...... Can't pick the other people using the space I guess, but lots of trash left in fire pitsand all along river. Water behind the sites more like a marsh. Flat levels it's and people able to fit their campers. Campers near us said there are more sites if you pass the airfield that are more spread out past the actual airfield sites.

              • c H.
                Camper-submitted photo from George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed
                Jun. 13, 2023

                George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed

                Cool Spot!

                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. Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites.

              • M.A.D. P.
                Camper-submitted photo from Somerset Airfield
                Jan. 1, 2023

                Somerset Airfield

                Small open park

                The Airfield Campground is a strip of land with several campsites and fire pits. It has pit toilets. These sites are close together with little to no shade. Some sites have access to a stream that flows behind the park. The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities. There are other dispersed sites down the road that are free

              • K
                Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake
                Jul. 9, 2021

                Echo Lake

                Lovely Camping in the Catskills

                This campground was my first backpacking trip and it was perfect!  There are tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail when you first arrive at the lake.  The sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees.  Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray.  Make sure you practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you bring in!  It does get a little crowded later in the day so you may have to share space with others and it can be a little noisy at night.

              • Doc B.
                Camper-submitted photo from Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park
                Jun. 17, 2021

                Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

                A hidden gem...

                99% off people don't even know this area exists. 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. Less then 10 min drive from town, but hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service. There is plenty of trails to explore and wildlife to enjoy, especially since these over 900 acres also back up to another huge plot of protected forests. Please enjoy Mother Nature's healing love, and leave the area cleaner than when you arrived. Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return.

              • Luke A.
                Camper-submitted photo from Jug End Dispersed
                Oct. 3, 2018

                Jug End Dispersed

                Jug End Campground, Great Spot for Section Hikers and All.

                Great spot, I have section hiked the majority of the east coast AT and this is in my top 10 spots to stay at. Trash cans, but carry out is preferable.

              • Luke A.
                Camper-submitted photo from Sage's Revine
                Oct. 3, 2018

                Sage's Revine

                Fantastic spot, right near water. 12 platforms available.

                Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms. Right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail. Great spot, highly recommend.



              Guide to West Stockbridge

              Camping near West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

              What to do:

              • Hiking: Explore the nearby trails, including those at Kenneth L Wilson Campground. One reviewer mentioned, “The campground has some great hiking trails and a cozy vibe in a beautiful part of NY.”
              • Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the lakes or rivers. At Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, a camper noted, “You’ve got fishing either in 2 private lakes or you can fish in the river.”
              • Swimming: Take a dip in the water at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner. A visitor shared, “The swimming there felt really clean and I loved the dock.”

              What campers like:

              • Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Woodland Valley Campground - DEC said, “The Catskills are very scenic and we enjoyed our time there!”
              • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A camper at North-South Lake Campground mentioned, “Each of the campsites in our loop has a lot of foliage around it, creating privacy between you and the site next to you.”
              • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, one visitor noted, “Pat and Gordon are incredibly welcoming hosts.”

              What you should know:

              • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service. A camper at Woodland Valley Campground - DEC mentioned, “No cell service anywhere close so you may be stuck driving around for a while looking for some.”
              • Close Campsites: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Kenneth L Wilson Campground said, “While some of the spots were fairly close together, they seem more spread out than in other Catskill camping sites.”
              • Amenities Vary: Facilities can differ greatly. One camper at Jamaica State Park Campground noted, “The bathrooms are BEAUTIFUL! The nicest I've seen yet.”

              Tips for camping with families:

              • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized activities. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner, a parent said, “This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore.”
              • Pack Snacks: Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as some campgrounds have limited stores. A visitor at Woodland Valley Campground - DEC advised, “Make sure you stock up before you get there; stuff is expensive at the corner stores.”
              • Plan for Quiet Time: Be mindful of noise levels, especially at family-friendly spots. A camper at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds mentioned, “Quiet at night. Lots to do for kids.”

              Tips from RVers:

              • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds noted, “We were assured that it would fit. It did—technically.”
              • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. One reviewer at North-South Lake Campground said, “There are some sites with an incline down to the site. That might give some RVs trouble.”
              • Utilize Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with dump stations for convenience. A visitor at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park mentioned, “They dump for you on the way out, no extra charge.”

              Camping near West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you’re hiking, fishing, or just enjoying nature, there’s something for every camper.

              Frequently Asked Questions

              • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near West Stockbridge, MA?

                According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near West Stockbridge, MA is Jug End Dispersed with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

              • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near West Stockbridge, MA?

                TheDyrt.com has all 14 dispersed camping locations near West Stockbridge, MA, with real photos and reviews from campers.