Green Mountain National Forest offers several dispersed camping options west of Spofford, New Hampshire. The forest contains numerous primitive sites along designated forest roads. Most sites accommodate moderate clearance vehicles, though conditions can change seasonally with sites becoming muddy or inaccessible during wet periods. Winter camping is possible in some locations with proper preparation and equipment.
What to do
Fishing access points: Somerset Reservoir provides fishing opportunities near the dispersed camping areas. One visitor noted, "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Resevoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities."
Winter hiking: For winter adventurers, Stratton Pond Shelter offers a destination accessible via winter hiking. A camper reported, "Spent the weekend here on the last weekend of Feb. 2024. Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods with only the people I hiked in with. It was great! The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter."
Star viewing: The remote locations provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities. At NF83 Dispersed site 1, a visitor appreciated "a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between dispersed sites. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, reviewers found "at least a dozen spots, some very spacious" and noted that there are "many pull offs" along the road.
Natural water features: Streams and water access enhance many sites. One camper at NF 83 - riverside described their site as "peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
Nearby attractions: The forest location provides access to regional highlights. A camper at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed mentioned "Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many sites require vehicles with adequate clearance. One camper warned about NF83 Dispersed site 1: "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8" of clearance under your vehicle."
Road conditions vary: Forest roads can be rough, especially after wet weather. A reviewer at NF 83 - riverside cautioned: "The access into this location is a little rough but most cars should make it, I would prefer having a little more clearance though just to be sure."
Site availability fluctuates: Finding an open site depends on timing and season. A visitor to Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 was surprised: "I couldn't believe that the site was not being used at all, especially the just a couple of days before Fourth of July weekend. Many other sites further south on 71 were filled."
Tips for camping with families
Open area options: Families may prefer larger, more open sites. Somerset Airfield offers "a grass strip next to FR71 with a bunch of sites and a pit house" which is "probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailor's that can't get into smaller sites."
Water activities: Somerset Reservoir provides family-friendly recreation. A visitor observed "happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping" and noted "It's great to see families camping."
Plan for variable weather: Vermont weather can change quickly. At Hogback Mtn Trailhead, the "large open lot at top of paved highway pass" provides "plenty of room for any number of rigs" but offers "not a lot of ambiance" — making it best for overnight stops rather than extended stays.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some sites accommodate RVs better than others. At Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, one site was described as "very flat and could accommodate several small campers."
Prepare for limited amenities: No hookups are available at any free camping near Spofford, New Hampshire. A visitor at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot confirmed there is "no water, no cell service. Basically a camp site where you can share a fire with the neighbors."
Consider seasonal impacts: Winter camping requires additional preparation. One winter camper at Somerset Airfield recounted: "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."
