Primitive camping near Ashuelot, New Hampshire requires campers to cross into Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest where elevations range from 1,600 to 2,500 feet across most dispersed sites. Winter temperatures in this region can drop below 10°F with significant snowfall accumulation, while summer brings moderate 70-80°F days. Many sites feature established fire rings but lack other amenities, requiring full self-sufficiency.
What to do
Reservoir activities: Somerset Reservoir provides excellent paddling and fishing opportunities just minutes from several campsites. A camper at Somerset Airfield observed "the stunning babbling brook and reservoir- saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping" during their stay, noting the peaceful atmosphere on weekday mornings.
Winter exploration: For cold-weather adventurers, the area offers snowmobile access and winter camping challenges. At Somerset Airfield, one experienced winter camper reported "enduring snow and mid-20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday" before conditions worsened with "sleet, freezing rain, and rain."
Hiking trails: Multiple trail networks connect to dispersed camping areas, particularly near the northern sites. A visitor to Statton Pond Camp mentioned "good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT" from their site.
What campers like
Privacy levels: While some sites offer isolation, others maintain a social atmosphere. A visitor to George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed found "large, well organized camping spots along the road" and noted their chosen spot "had a beautifully built fire pit" despite being slightly muddy from rain.
Night sky views: The minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1 appreciated the "great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions" though they cautioned it requires "more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle" to access.
Fire ring quality: Many sites feature well-established fire rings. At the Dispersed Site along Forest Road 71, one regular visitor mentioned they "camp here every summer and make sure the site is left clean and ready for the camper" though they noted having to clean up after previous visitors two years in a row.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically between sites. A visitor to Hogback Mtn Trailhead found it to be a "great place to stop for the night" with "plenty of room for any number of rigs" but no amenities beyond the open parking area.
Access challenges: Road conditions limit vehicle types at many locations. For NF83 riverside, a reviewer 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."
Site availability patterns: Finding a spot can be difficult during peak periods. A visitor to NFR 273 in October "had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot" despite traveling midweek in the off-season.
Private property awareness: Some mapped camping areas may not permit overnight stays. A visitor to Somerset Vt Dispersed reported finding "no camping signs all along road" and "private property" notices, resulting in needing to find alternatives.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: Choose sites with safe water access for children. At NF 83 riverside, a camper found "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit" that was "peacefully placed along the bends of the river" though they cautioned the left side of the drive was swampy.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be significant even in summer. Pack additional warm layers as evenings can drop below 50°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 70s.
Activity planning: Scout nearby recreation areas before setting up camp. Multiple sites along Forest Road 71 offer access to ponds and hiking trails suitable for children of different ages.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Statton Pond Camp, a visitor with a teardrop trailer found "easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering" with a "stone fire ring in the center."
Ground clearance requirements: Higher clearance vehicles fare better on forest roads. The Somerset Airfield area has "flat level sites" where people were "able to fit their campers" according to one reviewer, who added that "there are more sites if you pass the airfield that are more spread out."
Generator considerations: Many sites prohibit generators or restrict hours. Primitive camping near Ashuelot typically requires self-contained power solutions as most sites lack electricity.
