Primitive camping near Keene, New Hampshire centers primarily around the Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont, approximately 30-45 minutes west of Keene. Most dispersed sites sit at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet, creating cooler nighttime temperatures even in summer months. The area receives significant seasonal rainfall, making some forest roads challenging after precipitation events.
What to do
Hiking access: From Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, campers can reach multiple trail systems. "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT," notes reviewer Tim M. The site offers "2 bars of USCellular LTE" for those needing connectivity.
Water activities: The Somerset Airfield campground provides access to Somerset Reservoir. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," writes reviewer M.A.D. P. During summer weekends, expect to see "happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping."
Stargazing: Remote sites like those along NF83 offer exceptional night sky viewing. One camper describes it as "a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions." Winter camping presents prime viewing conditions when skies are clear.
What campers like
Varied site options: NFR 273 provides numerous camping possibilities. "At least a dozen spots, some very spacious," reports Michele N. Another camper noted: "Large open site just off of Forest Road 273." This area accommodates different camping styles and group sizes.
Privacy levels: Many campers appreciate the isolation of certain sites. The George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed camping area features "Large, well organized camping spots along the road" according to Tam E. Another visitor mentioned, "The camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on."
Riverside locations: Several campers value waterfront sites. At one riverside location, a visitor described "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit" positioned "peacefully along the bends of the river." Water proximity provides ambient sound and recreation opportunities.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Vermont mountain weather changes rapidly. One winter camper at Somerset Airfield reported: "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." Always check forecasts and bring extra layers.
Cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. At Stratton Pond Shelter, you should expect no service. At Somerset Airfield, one camper noted "AT&T service at bridge prior to camp - short walk. SOS only in camp. Another camper told me Starlink works here."
Site maintenance: Pack-out ethics aren't always followed. A camper reported: "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." Bring cleaning supplies and trash bags.
Off-season considerations: Many forest roads close seasonally. One camper reported, "The entrance to the road had a sign that said 'road closed ahead'. We chanced it and was able to find a really nice open spot right before the road closure."
Tips for camping with families
Space requirements: For family camping, look for larger clearings. At Statton Pond Camp, one visitor found "a large open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering." These areas provide room for kids to play safely away from roads.
Bug management: Dense forest sites can have significant insect activity. One camper at NFR 273 reported "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well." Consider open sites during peak bug season.
Holiday planning: Holiday weekends bring increased activity and sometimes disruptive behavior. A Somerset Airfield camper mentioned arriving "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." Weekdays offer quieter experiences for families.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most forest roads have clearance restrictions. For NF 83 sites, one camper warns, "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle." Another notes that "The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks."
Site selection timing: Popular dispersed areas fill quickly during peak seasons. A visitor to NFR 273 reported, "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot." Arriving mid-week or early in the day improves site options.
Elevation and exposure: The Hogback Mtn Trailhead provides "a large open lot at top of paved highway pass." One RVer called it a "Great place to stop for the night. Not a lot of ambiance, but plenty of room for any number of rigs." Higher elevations mean stronger winds and cooler temperatures.
