Primitive camping near Munsonville, New Hampshire focuses on undeveloped sites across the Vermont border in Green Mountain National Forest. Most locations sit at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet with temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby towns. Winter visitors should prepare for nighttime temperatures that can drop below 10°F, while summer campers encounter frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through August.
What to do
Paddle Somerset Reservoir: Located near Somerset Airfield, this large body of water offers excellent kayaking and swimming opportunities. "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping," notes one visitor, mentioning that weekdays are typically quieter.
Hike to backcountry shelters: The area features several trail-accessible camping options, including Stratton Pond Shelter. "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," reports one winter backpacker who adds that it sits at "one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail."
Winter activities: Experienced winter campers can access many sites year-round, though proper gear is essential. Somerset Airfield accommodates cold-weather adventurers seeking snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities. Just be prepared for challenging conditions - "Saturday, we got at least 8 more [inches of snow] along with sleet, freezing rain, and rain," one winter camper recalls.
What campers like
Well-established fire rings: Many dispersed sites feature sturdy, well-maintained fire pits. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, campers appreciate the "large one and a small cooking one" fire ring setup, while another visitor to a different site mentioned their "beautifully built fire pit."
Riverside camping: Water access ranks high among camper preferences. One visitor to NF 83 - riverside describes the spot as "peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!" This natural setting provides both practical water access and scenic value.
Multiple site options: With numerous pullouts and clearings throughout the national forest, campers can usually find available sites even during busy periods. "At least a dozen spots, some very spacious," notes a visitor to NFR 273, while another camper observed, "Large, well organized camping spots along the road."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads require careful navigation. At NF 83, one camper warns "The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks," adding that "smaller ground clearances may feel a bump or two!" Similar reports come from other sites throughout the region.
Weather impacts accessibility: Seasonal conditions dramatically affect campsite usability. "Many pull offs were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck," reports one October visitor. Spring mud season (March-May) makes many sites impassable, while winter requires snow-capable vehicles.
Site cleanliness concerns: Some visitors report needing to clean up after previous campers. One regular at Dispersed site along Forest RD 71 mentioned, "2 years in a row my husband and I had to spend over an hour cleaning the site from the people before us," highlighting the importance of pack-in-pack-out ethics.
Tips for camping with families
Choose Somerset Airfield for easier facilities: Families appreciate the basic toilet facilities at this location, though be prepared for limited maintenance. "10 spaces between the bathrooms/vault toilets with only 3 other 4 in working order," notes one visitor, but the convenience may outweigh the drawbacks.
Consider noise levels on weekends: While weekdays tend to be quiet, holiday weekends can bring crowds and noise. One Somerset visitor reported that "weekend was interrupted by a domestic violence situation" and that "multiple families left" due to the disturbance, suggesting midweek visits may be preferable for family trips.
Look for the meadow sites: For families needing space to spread out, the larger clearing-style sites offer better options. At Downed Bridge Camp, a visitor recommends, "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic," though they caution it "fills quickly on a weekend."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most dispersed sites accommodate small to medium RVs but aren't suitable for large rigs. "This is a nice clearing near the river where the road used to cross," notes one camper about NF 83, suggesting the limited turning space makes smaller vehicles preferable.
Arrival timing matters: Weekend competition for prime spots is fierce, especially in summer. "Make sure you show in daylight so you can explore for that [ideal spot]," advises one RVer at Downed Bridge Camp, adding that arriving in darkness limits your options considerably.
Consider Somerset Airfield for larger rigs: This more developed area works better for bigger RVs. One camper notes it "is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites," though they personally preferred more secluded options elsewhere in the forest.
