Primitive camping near Harrisville, New Hampshire primarily concentrates in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest, located approximately 30-40 miles west. Winter temperatures in this region regularly drop below freezing from November through March, with snowfall accumulation making many forest roads impassable without specialized vehicles. These remote sites lack formal infrastructure but offer secluded woodland camping opportunities along forest service roads with varying conditions.
What to do
Paddling Somerset Reservoir: Access the 1,568-acre reservoir via Somerset Airfield sites for kayaking and fishing opportunities. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes a camper from Somerset Airfield.
Hiking to Stratton Pond: Trek the 3.75-mile trail from winter parking to reach the remote Stratton Pond Shelter, which sits at the intersection of major trail systems. "The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter. There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter."
Stargazing from secluded sites: Take advantage of minimal light pollution at forest sites for night sky viewing. A camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1 noted it offers "no light pollution, cell signal or distractions," making it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
River access: Several primitive sites provide direct access to waterways for swimming or fishing. At NF 83 - riverside, one visitor described "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
Diverse site options: Forest Road 71 corridor offers numerous pullouts with established fire rings. "There are many locations along Forest rd 71, this spot was a good place to pitch a tent for the night while exploring the area even in the rain," reports a camper at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71.
Peace and seclusion: Most sites provide true backcountry quiet except during major holidays. At Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, a visitor found "Pretty quiet during our stay, plenty of dispersed sites along 71 further south."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many sites require higher clearance vehicles due to rough forest roads. At NF83 Dispersed site 1, one camper warns, "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Seasonal conditions: Spring brings significant mud issues to many forest roads. A visitor to Dispersed site along Forest RD 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."
Site cleanliness concerns: Previous campers occasionally leave trash. One regular at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose airfield sites for easier access: Somerset Airfield provides more developed facilities for families with young children. "The Airfield Campground is a strip of land with several campsites and fire pits. It has pit toilets," reports a visitor.
Plan for weather variability: Pack for changing conditions even in summer. One winter camper at Somerset Airfield experienced "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."
Consider nearby attractions: Base your site selection on proximity to activities. A camper at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed found "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for dispersed sites: Most forest road pullouts accommodate smaller rigs only. Somerset Airfield may work better for larger vehicles as one camper noted it "is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites."
Prepare for no hookups: All sites lack water, electric, and sewer connections. Even at more developed areas like Somerset Airfield, expect basic conditions with "No garbage service, no water, no cell service. Basically a camp site where you can share a fire with the neighbors."
Road condition monitoring: Check forest service updates before travel as conditions change seasonally. At NF 83 - riverside, a visitor observed "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."
