Primitive camping near Acworth, New Hampshire offers rustic backcountry experiences primarily across the border in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest. Sites scattered along Forest Roads 71, 273, and 83 require varying degrees of clearance, with many locations becoming impassable after heavy rains. Winter campers should prepare for temperatures that can drop below 10°F with significant wind chill factors.
What to do
Fishing access: Somerset Airfield provides an excellent base for visiting Somerset Reservoir, approximately 1 mile from camp. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes one camper.
Hiking to shelters: Stratton Pond Shelter offers access to multiple trail systems with a 3.75-mile hike required from the nearest winter parking. A camper reports, "The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter. There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter."
Local exploration: Forest Road 273 sites put you within 15 minutes of local attractions. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, campers mention "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Each dispersed site offers different privacy options. "The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit. It was a little muddy from rain," explains a camper at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed. For true seclusion, some prefer "We found a nice 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."
Space for groups: Many sites can accommodate multiple tents or small gatherings. At Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, one reviewer notes it's "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center."
River proximity: Several sites feature water access. The NF 83 - riverside location is described as "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Many access roads require careful navigation. One camper at NF 83 cautions, "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!"
Site conditions: Timing affects site usability. At Road's End Dispersed Camp, a visitor notes "The drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles." Another camper at NFR 273 reported, "Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck."
Weekend crowding: Weekdays offer better site selection. "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot," explains one NFR 273 camper. Another notes, "Nice spot. If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Select open sites: For family camping, consider sites with room for activities. At Statton Pond Camp, "This was a great site. I couldn't believe that the site was not being used at all, especially just a couple of days before Fourth of July weekend."
Clean-up needs: Be prepared to potentially clean sites before 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," shares a camper at Forest Road 71.
River access sites: Consider water proximity for hot days. At Branch Pond on National Forest Highway, "Tons of different styles of camping spots (if you get there while its still sunlight you can pick a spot by a flowing stream/river)."
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Many roads demand higher clearance vehicles. One visitor to Downed Bridge Camp advises, "The road into here was easy to drive. The only thing you will find at this primitive site is a fire ring."
Space limitations: Somerset Airfield offers more level parking but less privacy. A reviewer notes, "It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites, but if you can I would go somewhere else."
Early arrival importance: For RVs, arriving with daylight helps assess accessibility. "If you're looking for the ideal spot to stay a few days make sure you show in daylight so you can explore for that," recommends a Downed Bridge camper.
