For campers seeking primitive camping options in the Green Mountains, Jaffrey, New Hampshire serves as a starting point for exploration into nearby Vermont wilderness areas. The closest rustic camping near Jaffrey requires traveling approximately 60 miles west into Vermont's national forest lands. Weather patterns in this mountainous region fluctuate seasonally with summer highs averaging 75-80°F while winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Paddling at Somerset Reservoir: The large reservoir offers excellent kayaking and canoeing opportunities across its 1,600-acre surface. According to visitors at Somerset Airfield, "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and resevoir- saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping" with "plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities."
Winter recreation: For cold weather adventurers, the area transforms with snowfall. A camper at Somerset Airfield documented their experience: "Well, that was an experience! Met some friends Friday night at the Somerset Airfield for a weekend of camping. We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday." Winter visitors should prepare for extreme conditions but can enjoy snowmobiling on designated trails.
Hiking nearby trails: Several walking paths connect the dispersed camping areas. The Hogback Mtn Trailhead provides access to local trail systems, and one camper notes it's a "large open lot at top of paved highway pass" making it convenient for overnight hikers looking to hit the trails early.
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere during weekdays. A visitor reported, "It's been quiet and peaceful and sometimes generators running all night." Another camper mentioned Somerset Airfield has "other dispersed sites down the road that are free" offering more solitude than the main camping area.
River access: Several sites feature stream access for cooling off. A reviewer at Green Mountain National Forest FR71 noted there are "walk in sites behind these that have easy river access" providing opportunities for wading and fishing in warmer months.
Easy accessibility: Despite the remote feel, many sites are relatively easy to reach. According to one camper, "It is an easy dirtroad drive to get to this location, that is why they tend to be used so much by RVers." This accessibility makes primitive camping possible even for those without high-clearance vehicles.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Come prepared for truly rustic camping experiences. One visitor to Somerset Airfield reported finding "a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service." Another mentioned "only 3 other 4 in working order" regarding toilet facilities.
Cell service challenges: Communication is limited throughout the region. A camper reported "AT&T service at bridge prior to camp- short walk. SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here." At Deerfield River East Camp on Forest Road 71, signal is virtually nonexistent, requiring campers to plan accordingly.
Private property boundaries: Always verify camping locations remain accessible. Recent visitors to former dispersed sites noted "No camping signs. Private property" at previously available locations, indicating changing land access situations in certain areas.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Families should target specific areas for the best experience. One camper advised, "There are other dispersed sites down the road that are free" with more space between sites and better privacy than the main airfield area.
Weekend crowds: Plan for busier conditions during summer weekends and holidays. A visitor observed, "I arrived after the 4th of July and a neighbor said it was rowdy during the holiday with illegal fireworks set off every night over the dry forest." Midweek camping typically provides a calmer experience for families with children.
Water safety planning: Somerset Vt Dispersed on the Deerfield River areas near water require extra vigilance with children. The water behind some sites was described as "more like a marsh" by one camper, indicating varying water conditions depending on location and recent rainfall.
Tips from RVers
Space limitations: RV campers should note site constraints. A reviewer mentioned Somerset Airfield "is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailor's that can't get into smaller sites." However, they cautioned this area is "just a grass strip next to FR71 with a bunch of sites and a pit house."
Flat parking options: Look for level sites suitable for larger vehicles. One camper observed "flat levels it's and people able to fit their campers" at designated areas, making parking easier than in other more rugged locations in the region.
Winter access challenges: Cold-weather RV camping requires preparation. An experienced winter camper documented, "In the morning when packing up and breaking the ice glazed on everything." They also warned about snowmobile traffic in winter months that might affect RV camping areas.
