Best Dispersed Camping near West Chesterfield, NH
Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the Green Mountain National Forest near West Chesterfield, New Hampshire. Several free primitive sites exist within a short drive across the Vermont border, including George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed, Somerset Airfield, and NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot. These areas feature basic amenities with established fire rings but limited facilities. The George D Aiken sites are particularly well-regarded, with campers noting "large, well-organized camping spots along the road" and sites that are "spread out from each other" providing good privacy.
Most dispersed sites in this region require self-sufficiency. No drinking water, trash service, or toilet facilities exist at most locations except Somerset Airfield, which has pit toilets. Fire rings are present at established sites, and fires are generally permitted when no fire restrictions are in effect. Vehicle access varies significantly between locations. Forest Road 71 and NFR 273 can become muddy after rain, with one visitor reporting they "didn't trust their SUV to get through" certain sections. Higher clearance vehicles are recommended for NF83 sites, which require "more than 8 inches of clearance."
Weather conditions can change rapidly in this mountainous region, particularly in spring and fall. Somerset Reservoir provides recreational opportunities including fishing and paddling. Cell service is spotty throughout the area, with some sites offering no coverage. Visitors should be aware that Somerset Vt Dispersed on the Deerfield River now has "no camping signs all along road" as it is private property. The area experiences moderate to heavy use during summer weekends, with several campers reporting they "had to drive miles down dirt roads to find suitable spots" during peak periods. Pack out all trash and practice Leave No Trace principles.