Dispersed camping near Claremont, New Hampshire offers primitive sites throughout Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 2,900 feet. Sites experience significant seasonal variations with thick snow cover from December through April, affecting access to many forest roads. Summer temperatures average 65-80°F during the day and 45-60°F at night, requiring layered clothing even during peak camping season.
What to do
Paddle Somerset Reservoir: Just 45 minutes from Claremont, this large body of water provides excellent paddling opportunities. A camper at Somerset Airfield noted, "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping."
Hike interconnected trails: Access the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail system from multiple dispersed sites. A camper at Stratton Pond Shelter shared, "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT."
Winter camping: Forest Road 71 sites remain accessible for winter adventure seekers who come prepared. One 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."
What campers like
Riverside settings: Sites along streams provide natural soundscapes and water access. At NF 83 - riverside, a camper described, "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
Seclusion at end-of-road sites: The furthest sites offer the most privacy. At Last light on Michigan Brook, a visitor advised, "The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"
Multi-site group camping: Some areas feature large clearings suitable for group camping. A visitor to Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 described it as "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center."
What you should know
Site cleanliness varies: Previous campers may leave sites in poor condition. One camper reported, "Site was littered with places previous campers had left human excrement. While not in the site directly, it was all around it."
Seasonal mud challenges: Spring thaw and rain can make sites difficult to access. A camper attempting to reach Forest Road 71 reported, "This particular campsite is very muddy. Well, at least today it is. I have an SUV and I didn't trust it to get through, and I didn't want to get stuck."
Weekend crowds: Holiday weekends can become overcrowded and noisy at more accessible sites. A camper at Somerset Airfield shared, "Weekend was interrupted by a domestic violence situation a few sites down that resulted in fights and someone shooting off a handgun. Took state police over 50 minutes to respond."
Tips for camping with families
Arrive early on weekends: Popular sites fill quickly, especially in summer. One visitor to Downed Bridge Camp advised, "Note that fills quickly on a weekend. But don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10."
Scout sites in daylight: Many unmarked sites are difficult to evaluate after dark. A camper suggested, "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."
Pack bathroom supplies: Most sites have no toilet facilities. A Somerset Airfield visitor noted, "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service."
Tips for RVers
Check clearance requirements: Access roads vary significantly in quality. At On the Hill Dispersed Camp, a camper warned, "Being a primitive site, expect that it is a little rough to get into."
Somerset Airfield for larger rigs: This area offers more open, level spaces. One visitor noted, "It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites."
Monitor weather impacts: Rain can quickly change road conditions. A camper at NF 83 advised, "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."
