Best Dispersed Camping near Gilsum, NH
The southwestern New Hampshire region surrounding Gilsum features primarily dispersed camping options, with many sites located in the nearby Green Mountain National Forest across the Vermont border. George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed camping area offers well-rated primitive sites approximately 30 miles west of Gilsum, with several campers noting its spacious, well-organized spots and established fire rings. Somerset Airfield provides a more open camping experience with basic amenities including pit toilets, while Forest Road 71 hosts multiple pull-off sites suitable for both tent and small RV camping. Most locations are primitive with minimal facilities but provide access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic forest settings.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the area, with many dispersed sites requiring moderate clearance vehicles. As one camper noted about NF 83 riverside site, "The access is a little rough but most cars should make it, though having more clearance is preferable." Weather impacts site conditions substantially, with many reviews mentioning muddy or wet areas after rainfall. Winter camping is possible but challenging, with one Somerset Airfield visitor describing "temperatures plummeting to 8° with a windchill of -3" during their stay. Cell service ranges from spotty to nonexistent at most locations, and campers should arrive prepared with all necessary supplies as most sites lack drinking water, trash service, or other amenities.
Proximity to water features ranks highly among camper priorities in this region. Somerset Reservoir receives frequent mentions as a destination for paddling and fishing, while riverside camping spots like NF 83 offer peaceful settings described by one visitor as "enchanting" with "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit." Privacy levels vary considerably between locations, with Somerset Airfield described as having sites "close together with little to no shade," while George D Aiken Wilderness sites are "pretty spread out from each other." Weekends see significantly higher usage, with several reviewers noting the need to arrive early or explore further down forest roads to find available spots. Bug pressure can be intense in wooded areas during summer months, with more open sites generally offering relief.
