Dispersed camping sites near Westmoreland, New Hampshire are primarily concentrated in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. The terrain features mixed hardwood forests with seasonal streams that can swell during spring runoff. Road conditions typically deteriorate after rain events, with many access points requiring careful navigation during wet weather.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Somerset Reservoir is accessible from Somerset Airfield, providing excellent fishing spots. "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 recreation: Cold-weather adventurers can access these sites year-round, though preparation is essential. "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8 inches of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday," shares a visitor who winter-camped at Somerset Airfield. Winter activities include snowshoeing on forest roads and snowmobiling on designated trails.
Hiking trails: The area connects to significant trail systems. Access points near Stratton Pond Shelter offer multi-trail connections. "Great location at the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail," reports a hiker. "The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter."
What campers like
Peaceful environment: The remoteness offers quiet camping experiences. At NF83 Dispersed site 1, campers appreciate the isolation: "What a great spot with no light pollution, cell signal or distractions."
Stream access: Several sites feature water access. At NF 83 - riverside, campers enjoy "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!" The site offers direct river proximity, though visitors should "be sure to not drift to [the left] side" of the drive-in as it "is swampy."
Variable site sizes: From small clearings to large group areas, the region offers flexible accommodation options. One camper describes a site along Forest Road 71 as "Easy access to an open circle, capable of handling multiple rigs for a large gathering. Stone fire ring in the center."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many sites require appropriate vehicles. For NF83 Dispersed site 1, "Don't expect to get in here unless you have more than 8 inches of clearance under your vehicle."
Variable conditions: Weather impacts site availability significantly. At NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot, a camper noted: "Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck."
Site maintenance issues: Some locations require cleanup upon arrival. One visitor mentioned, "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."
Summer insects: Dense woodland sites experience heavy bug activity. "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well," warns one camper at NFR 273.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection criteria: Choose sites with flat terrain and adequate space for activities. Somerset Airfield offers "a strip of land with several campsites and fire pits. It has pit toilets. These sites are close together with little to no shade."
Activity planning: Pack water activities for sites near streams or ponds. "Enjoyed the stunning babbling brook and reservoir - saw happy people swimming, kayaking, and camping," shares a visitor to Somerset Airfield.
Weekend timing: Consider weekday visits for rustic camping near Westmoreland, New Hampshire as weekend crowds can change the experience. "It's been quiet and peaceful and sometimes generators running all night. I arrived after the 4th of July and a neighbor said it was rowdy during the holiday with illegal fireworks set off every night."
Tips from RVers
Ground clearance considerations: Most dispersed sites require careful navigation. "The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks. We have substantial ground clearance so no issues there, but smaller ground clearances may feel a bump or two," advises an RV camper.
Site availability timing: Arrive early on weekdays for prime locations. "Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot," reports a van camper.
Generator etiquette: Be mindful of noise in these otherwise quiet locations. One camper at Somerset Airfield mentioned the otherwise peaceful area was "sometimes generators running all night."
