Dispersed camping options near West Swanzey, New Hampshire extend into Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest where elevations range from 1,500 to 3,900 feet. Most primitive camping areas experience temperature variations of up to 20°F between day and night, particularly at higher elevations. The forest roads accessing these sites typically open by mid-May and close with the first significant snowfall in late October or November.
What to do
Fishing and paddling: Somerset Reservoir offers excellent recreational opportunities beyond just camping. The reservoir is accessible from Somerset Airfield where one camper noted, "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir—saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping." The area provides access points for canoes and kayaks with multiple fishing spots.
Hiking trails: Access the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail system from several primitive campsites. Stratton Pond Shelter sits "at the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail" according to a recent review, making it a strategic basecamp. The shelter requires "a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter" but rewards with access to "one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail."
Stargazing: Forest Road locations offer excellent night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. Primitive sites along NF-83 provide optimal stargazing conditions as one camper described, "a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions." Clear nights typically offer visibility of the Milky Way and meteor showers during peak seasons.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: While the existing Somerset Airfield campground can get busy, other dispersed sites offer more seclusion. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, campers appreciate the isolation, with one noting it has "at least a dozen spots, some very spacious." Another reviewer mentioned, "Peaceful and quiet dispersed camping spot. Large enough for 2-3 vehicles or one large rig/RV."
Easy forest road access: Many primitive camping areas near West Swanzey connect via Forest Road 71. Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71 gets praise for being "easy to get to, had service the whole time, fire pits for every spot." Another camper described it as having "easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering."
Established fire rings: Most dispersed sites come with fire rings. At the NF 83 riverside location, one visitor described "a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit." Another camper at Statton Pond Camp mentioned "a stone fire ring in the center" of the clearing. These established rings help minimize fire impact while providing focal points for evening gatherings.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access roads to primitive camping near West Swanzey range from well-maintained to challenging. For NF 83 - riverside, one camper warned "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." Another noted "the beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks."
Seasonal crowding: During peak seasons, finding open dispersed sites requires preparation. One visitor to NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot reported: "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot." At Statton Pond Camp, a reviewer noted sites "further south on 71 were filled and some were just TTs holding the space for the upcoming weekend."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes quickly in this region. At Somerset Airfield, one winter camper experienced: "Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8 inches of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday, and our main Roadhouse down from the weight of the snow." Summer visitors should prepare for afternoon thunderstorms while shoulder season campers need gear for freezing nights.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom access considerations: For families with young children, toilet facilities matter. Hogback Mtn Trailhead offers a "large open lot at top of paved highway pass" that one camper called "a great place to stop for the night." While it lacks amenities, its ease of access makes quick trips to nearby facilities possible.
Site selection for swimming: Families often prefer sites near water features. At Somerset Airfield, campers report "sites behind the airfield that have easy river access" and note that "in the summer be ready for snowmobiles, in the winter trucks." The Somerset Reservoir nearby offers swimming options during warmer months.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity occurs throughout the region. One camper at Statton Pond Camp reported: "I did see a huge blackbear." Teach children proper food storage protocols and keep a clean campsite to minimize unwanted wildlife encounters.
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Many dispersed sites have rough access roads. One RVer at NF83 Dispersed site warned "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8 inches of clearance under your vehicle." Some sites along Forest Road 71 can accommodate larger rigs but require careful navigation.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at many primitive sites. At George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, one camper noted "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." Having proper leveling equipment helps maximize site options.
Seasonal road closures: RVers should check road status before traveling to remote sites. Some forest roads close after first snowfall or during spring thaw. One camper at NFR 273 commented that "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."
