Green Mountain National Forest offers several primitive camping spots within a 20-30 mile radius of Charlestown, New Hampshire. This mountainous region includes elevations ranging from 900 to 3,800 feet with terrain that varies from dense forest to open meadows. Winter temperatures often drop to single digits with heavy snowfall, while summer brings moderate days with cool nights.
What to do
Hiking the AT/LT trail network: Near Stratton Pond Shelter, campers can access multiple connected trails. "The shelter is at the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail. The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail," notes reviewer Miccal M.
Fishing and paddling: Somerset Reservoir provides water recreation opportunities close to Somerset Airfield. A camper reports, "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities."
Winter camping adventures: For those prepared for extreme conditions, winter camping offers a unique experience. "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday... Saturday evening, we had 3" more by 11pm. Then temperatures plummeted to 8° and a windchill of-3," shares one winter camper at Somerset Airfield.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Downed Bridge Camp offers secluded spots. "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend. But don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10," writes Caitlin K.
Riverside camping: Several locations feature stream and river access. At NF 83 riverside, campers enjoy "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit" along the river. Thomas and James S. describe it as "peacefully placed along the bends of the river."
Cell service availability: Connectivity varies by location. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, one camper notes "att cell reception" is available. Another mentions that at Somerset Airfield, "AT&T service at bridge prior to camp - short walk. SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads require higher clearance vehicles. For NF 83, "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 availability patterns: Weekends fill quickly at popular locations. "Don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10... 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."
Variable campsite quality: NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot offers "at least a dozen spots, some very spacious," but experiences vary. "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 for camping with families
Choose Somerset Airfield for facilities: With pit toilets, this location works well for families needing basic facilities. One camper notes "10 spaces between the bathrooms/vault toilets with only 3 other 4 in working order."
Consider peak season crowds: During holidays, some areas become rowdy. A camper at Somerset Airfield reported, "a neighbor said it was rowdy during the holiday with illegal fireworks set off every night over the dry forest."
Pack for bugs: Dense wooded areas have significant insect activity. At NFR 273, one camper warned of "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Tips from RVers
Site selection is crucial: For RVs, some areas provide better options than others. "Somerset Airfield is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailors that can't get into smaller sites," according to Miccal M.
Look for flat, open areas: At Stratton Pond Camp, "The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers," notes Andy M.
Consider ground conditions: Weather impacts accessibility. "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot. After what was very quiet and a peaceful place to be. Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck."
