Dispersed camping near Goshen, New Hampshire provides access to multiple primitive sites throughout the Green Mountain National Forest across the Vermont border. Most sites are accessible via Forest Roads 71, 83, and connecting routes within a 45-minute drive from Goshen. Winter conditions often limit access to high-clearance 4WD vehicles from November through April, while summer weekends frequently reach capacity by Friday afternoons at most popular sites.
What to do
Paddle Somerset Reservoir: Located near Somerset Airfield, this large body of water offers paddling opportunities. "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir- saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping," notes camper Licia S.
Winter camping adventures: For cold-weather enthusiasts, several sites remain accessible year-round. As one camper at Somerset Airfield explains, "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."
Hike to mountain ponds: The area features several backcountry water bodies accessible by trail. One camper at Statton Pond Camp mentions, "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT."
What campers like
Riverside camping options: Several sites feature water access along forest roads. A visitor to NF 83 - riverside shares, "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
True wilderness experience: The remote nature of these sites appeals to those seeking solitude. At Downed Bridge Camp, campers appreciate the isolation: "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend."
Variable campsite sizes: Sites range from small pull-offs to larger clearings for groups. A visitor to On the Hill Dispersed Camp reports, "It's a nice size primitive site for a small group. Being a primitive site, expect that it is a little rough to get into."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many sites require higher clearance vehicles. A camper at NF 83 - riverside 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!"
Seasonal crowding patterns: Holiday weekends bring heavy use and sometimes problematic behavior. As one camper at Somerset Airfield observed, "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."
Limited or no cell service: Connectivity is sparse throughout the region. At Branch Pond on National Forest Hwy, a camper reports, "I personally didn't have service," though other sites may have spotty coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Arrive during daylight: Finding suitable sites can be challenging after dark. A camper at Downed Bridge Camp advises, "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 extra trash bags: Some sites suffer from previous campers leaving waste. At Somerset Airfield, a visitor noted, "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."
Consider shelter alternatives: The backcountry shelters offer structured camping with basic amenities. At Stratton Pond Shelter, a winter visitor found, "There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter."
Tips from RVers
Locate more spacious sites: For larger rigs, certain areas offer better accommodation. One camper suggests Somerset Airfield is "probably good for people who camp with RVs or trailers that can't get into smaller sites."
Monitor weather forecasts: Rapidly changing conditions impact site accessibility. A Somerset Airfield winter camper reports, "Saturday, we got at least 8" more along with sleet, freezing rain, and rain. Saturday evening, we had 3" more by 11pm."
Bring leveling blocks: Most primitive camping near Goshen, New Hampshire features uneven terrain. At Somerset Airfield, one camper mentioned, "Flat levels it's and people able to fit their campers. Campers near us said there are more sites if you pass the airfield."
