Dispersed camping near Newport, New Hampshire offers multiple free sites across the Connecticut River in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest. Sites cluster around forest roads at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 feet, creating varied camping conditions dependent on seasonal weather patterns. Many locations require traveling washboard dirt roads that become particularly challenging after rainfall or during spring thaw.
What to do
Paddling and fishing on Somerset Reservoir: Somerset Airfield provides convenient access to water recreation. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes one camper.
Stream access for cooling off: At NF 83 - riverside, campers enjoy water access right at their site. "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!" reports a visitor who appreciated the waterfront location.
Hiking trail connections: Forest Road 71 sites offer connections to regional trail systems. One camper staying at Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 noted, "Good hiking access to Stratton Pond, to Branch Pond, to Grout Pond Recreation Area, to the AT/LT."
What campers like
Solitude on weekdays: Free camping near Newport often means different experiences depending on timing. "I couldn't believe that the site was not being used at all, especially just a couple of days before Fourth of July weekend. Many other sites further south on 71 were filled and some were just TTs holding the space," reports a Statton Pond Camp visitor.
Winter camping experiences: For adventurous campers, Somerset Airfield offers four-season camping. One winter camper noted, "Everything crusted was over with a good inch of ice. I have never endured such winds camping, I was sure camp was going to be blown apart."
Riverside settings: Many sites feature waterfront locations. A visitor to Last light on Michigan Brook advised, "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"
What you should know
Site cleanliness varies: Pack out trash bags and possibly cleaning supplies. At Dispersed site along Forest RD 71, one regular camper explained, "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."
Vehicle clearance matters: Low-clearance vehicles struggle at many sites. A NF 83 - riverside camper warned, "The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks. We have substantial ground clearance so no issues there but smaller ground clearances may feel a bump or two!"
Cell service limitations: Communication options vary by site. A Statton Pond camper reported, "2 bars of USCellular LTE," but most locations have minimal or no service, requiring planning for emergency communication.
Tips for camping with families
Look for flat, open sites: Some locations offer better setup for families with multiple tents. At On the Hill Dispersed Camp, a camper noted, "It's a nice size primitive site for a small group."
Consider vault toilet availability: Somerset Airfield provides bathroom facilities. "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water, no cell service," explains a visitor, making it more suitable for families than completely undeveloped sites.
Arrival timing matters: Secure family-friendly spots by arriving early. A Downed Bridge Camp visitor advised, "If you're looking for the ideal spot to stay a few days make sure you show in daylight so you can explore for that."
Tips from RVers
Space constraints at some sites: Several dispersed sites have limited turning radius. "OK for an overnight stay but not a desirable camping location overall," notes a visitor to Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site who struggled with a small teardrop trailer.
Airfield sites offer more space: Somerset Airfield works better for larger setups. A camper observed, "This really is just a grass strip next to FR71 with a bunch of sites and a pit house. It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites."
Road conditions change seasonally: Forest roads deteriorate after rain. An Elbow Pond visitor warned, "The road in is pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars," which applies even more to vehicles towing RVs.
