Dispersed camping options near Hinsdale, New Hampshire extend primarily into Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest, where primitive sites can be accessed via several forest roads. Winter conditions significantly impact accessibility from November through April, with some roads becoming impassable due to snow and mud. The region receives approximately 60 inches of annual snowfall, creating seasonal challenges for campers seeking free camping opportunities.
What to do
Hiking to Stratton Pond: Multiple dispersed sites along Forest Road 71 provide convenient access to the Appalachian Trail and hiking routes to Stratton Pond. "The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers. It was quiet during our overnight stay other than a car or two on Stratton-Arlington Rd. There weren't many mosquitoes either. Hiking trail to Stratton Pond close by," notes a visitor at Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71.
River activities: Several sites offer direct water access for swimming and fishing. At NF 83 - riverside, campers can enjoy "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit" positioned along river bends. One camper shares: "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit! The left side of the drive in is swampy so be sure to not drift to that side."
Reservoir recreation: Somerset Reservoir provides paddling opportunities within 15 minutes of several dispersed sites. "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping. It's been quiet and peaceful and sometimes generators running all night," reports a Somerset Airfield visitor.
What campers like
Privacy levels: The George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed area offers varying degrees of seclusion. "Large, well organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit. It was a little muddy from rain," reports one camper, while another appreciated finding "a perfect site off the road on the right side. It was large and flat. We were off the road by 100 feet or so. It made it more private."
Night sky viewing: Remote sites with minimal light pollution create excellent stargazing conditions. At NF83 Dispersed site 1, a camper appreciates the isolation: "This primitive spot is a little more than a clearing with a fire pit. But what a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
Spacious gathering areas: Some sites accommodate group camping with multiple vehicles. A visitor to NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot noted, "At least a dozen spots, some very spacious. Only crashed for 1 night but will be coming back to spend a few, this area was excellent!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the dispersed camping areas. At Somerset Airfield, a camper reported "SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here." For those needing connectivity, "2 bars of USCellular LTE" were reported at Statton Pond Camp.
Site competition: Weekends and holidays see increased competition for prime spots. "Nice spot but to busy. Got up on a Friday with plenty of spots," notes a Somerset Airfield camper. Another at Hogback Mtn Trailhead found it a "Great place to stop for the night. Not a lot of ambiance, but plenty of room for any number of rigs."
Weather impacts: Rain can significantly affect ground conditions and accessibility. "It had been raining a lot prior to our arrival, and several sites were damp," reports a George D Aiken camper. Another mentioned, "Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck."
Tips for camping with families
Cleanliness concerns: Free camping sites require vigilance regarding sanitation. "Site was littered with places previous campers had left human excrement. While not in the site directly, it was all around it," cautions one George D Aiken camper. Consider bringing portable toilet systems for family comfort.
Somerset Airfield amenities: For families requiring basic facilities, Somerset Airfield provides pit toilets. "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service," notes a visitor. This makes Somerset Airfield one of the few dispersed sites with any toilet facilities.
Security considerations: Some areas have experienced disruptive behavior during holidays. "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 and multiple families left," reports a visitor to Somerset Airfield.
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Road conditions to many sites demand vehicles with appropriate ground clearance. "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle," warns a camper at NF83 Dispersed site 1. Another notes the entrance to NF 83 - riverside is "a little rough but most cars should make it."
Seasonal accessibility: Winter camping requires specialized preparation. A winter camper at Somerset Airfield shares: "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. The stakes didn't hold in the frozen ground. So, we tied them to the trees and our cars."
Site selection strategy: For RVs seeking level ground, multiple options exist. A visitor to Forest Road 71 found "an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering" with a "stone fire ring in the center." Late arrival may require driving deeper into the forest roads to find suitable spots.
