Rustic camping near Sullivan, New Hampshire often means venturing into the Green Mountain National Forest in neighboring Vermont. This region features elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 feet with dense northern hardwood forests and numerous small waterways. Winter temperatures regularly drop below 0°F with heavy snowfall accumulations exceeding 100 inches annually in higher elevations, while summer camping sees average highs in the 70s.
What to do
Paddling and fishing: Somerset Reservoir sits near Somerset Airfield and offers excellent water recreation opportunities. "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities," notes one camper.
Winter adventure camping: For those seeking extreme outdoor experiences, winter camping provides unique challenges and rewards. At Somerset Airfield, a camper reports: "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."
Appalachian Trail access: The Stratton Pond Shelter provides access to major trail systems. "Great location at the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail... The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail," writes one backpacker who visited in February.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many primitive sites in the George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed area offer good separation from other campers. "Large, well organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit," reports one visitor. Another notes, "The camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on."
Open sites for group camping: Some locations provide larger clearings suitable for multiple tents or vehicles. At Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71, a camper describes "a large open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center."
Riverside locations: Several primitive camping areas sit alongside streams or rivers. At NF 83 - riverside, campers enjoy "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit" that's "peacefully placed along the bends of the river."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites can be challenging depending on recent weather and vehicle clearance. "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," notes a camper at NF 83.
Cleaning up after previous campers: Unfortunately, some visitors report needing to clean sites upon arrival. At Forest Road 71, a regular camper mentions, "We camp here every summer and make sure the site is left clean and ready for the camper."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites have fire rings but lack other amenities. At Downed Bridge Camp, a visitor confirms, "The only thing you will find at this primitive site is a fire ring."
Tips for camping with families
Best time for family visits: Weekdays typically offer quieter camping experiences compared to weekends and holidays. At Somerset Airfield, one camper observed: "Weekend was interrupted by a domestic violence situation a few sites down... resulted in fights and someone shooting off a handgun. Took state police over 50 minutes to respond."
Site selection for kids: Look for established sites with natural boundaries and flat ground. "It had rained a lot prior to our arrival, and several sites were damp. We found a perfect site off the road on the right side. It was large and flat. We were off the road by 100 feet or so," reports a visitor to George D Aiken Wilderness.
Local attractions: Families can find activities beyond the camping areas. George D Aiken visitors note that "brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites."
Tips for RVers
Best dispersed RV locations: Somerset Airfield provides more open terrain suited for larger vehicles. One camper notes, "It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites."
Seasonal considerations: Winter RV camping requires extensive preparation. A Somerset Airfield winter camper described: "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."
Site availability patterns: Popular dispersed camping areas fill quickly on weekends. "If you're lucky enough to get the last spot on the road it's epic. Note that fills quickly on a weekend," advises a visitor to Downed Bridge Camp.
