Dispersed camping near Walpole, New Hampshire typically requires crossing into Vermont, where the Green Mountain National Forest offers year-round primitive camping opportunities. The region features elevations ranging from 900-1,800 feet with dense northern hardwood forest cover. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, while summer days average 75-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing access: Somerset Reservoir provides excellent fishing opportunities near primitive campsites. "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir—saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping," notes a camper at Somerset Airfield.
Winter camping: For those seeking solitude, winter dispersed camping provides a challenging experience. A visitor to Stratton Pond Shelter reports: "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!"
Hiking trail connections: Multiple campsites provide access to major trail systems. One camper at Stratton Pond Shelter explains: "The shelter is at the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail... There are 2 tent platforms, 2 outhouses and at least 16 bunk spaces in the shelter."
What campers like
Complete solitude: Free primitive sites in less accessible areas offer true wilderness experience. A camper at NF 83 - riverside shares: "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
Dark skies: The area's minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. A visitor at Branch Pond on National Forest Hwy mentions: "Tons of different styles of camping spots (if you get there while its still sunlight you can pick a spot by a flowing stream/river)."
Wildlife viewing: The remote camping areas support diverse wildlife. "I did see a huge blackbear," notes one camper, highlighting the importance of proper food storage when free camping in this region.
What you should know
Access road conditions: Many forest roads require careful navigation. One camper at NF 83 notes: "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: Prime locations fill quickly during peak times. "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.
Variable site quality: Conditions at dispersed sites can differ dramatically. "I've camped here a couple of times and it is ok. This really is just a grass strip next to FR71 with a bunch of sites and a pit house," reports one camper about Somerset Airfield.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites have minimal or no facilities. "The only thing you will find at this primitive site is a fire ring," notes a camper about Downed Bridge Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Consider site layout: Some areas provide better family camping options than others. "The site was very flat and could accommodate several small campers," writes a visitor to Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71.
Noise factors: Different sites offer varying levels of privacy and quietness. "It was quiet during our overnight stay other than a car or two on Stratton-Arlington Rd. There weren't many mosquitoes either," reports one Statton Pond camper.
Bathroom access: Plan accordingly for sites without facilities. Somerset Airfield offers basic amenities: "There are pit toilets. AT.T service at bridge prior to camp- short walk. SOS only in camp," explains one reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some dispersed areas accommodate RVs better than others. A camper at George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed notes: "The camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on."
Parking considerations: Ground conditions affect vehicle access. "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," shares a George D Aiken Wilderness camper.
Weather preparedness: Weather can change rapidly in this region. "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," recounts a winter visitor to Somerset Airfield.
