Do you hate the idea of paying to experience nature? Well, so do we. Thanks to the pandemic, camping is hitting record highs for individuals and families all across the US, which is driving up prices.
Thankfully, states like Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire still offer free campsites in some of the most pristine nature spots in the Northeast. Let’s talk about the free campsites in Somerset, Vermont, and see if they’re right for you!
About the Camping Spots
Keep in mind that these are all dry camping spots. There is no running water or electric hookups, but they are free!
When the Somerset Airfield was removed from the area, the state decided to use the land for camping in the area. This gives hikers and tourists an excellent opportunity for lodging when they go hiking in the Green Mountain National Forest.
Some of the spots are in the middle of the woods, some are right off the road, and some are directly on the river. Every spot is on a first-come, first-served basis, so getting there during the “off” times is your best bet. Essentially, this means not on a Friday or Saturday during peak season!
Getting There
Screenshot this paragraph for future reference, even if you use a GPS. There is conflicting information online, so follow these carefully. Heading west on Vermont Route 9, take a stop at Hogback Mountain Scenic Overlook, and keep going until you reach Wilmington.
Head all the way through Wilmington until you see Harriman Reservoir. Then, start paying attention to the exits on your right. Right after you see Lind Lane on your right (it’s a loop), take a right onto Somerset Road, following Deerfield River.
You will then get onto the long, dirt road on your right and keep going for miles. You will keep questioning if you’ve passed 3 bridges already, but don’t worry, you’ll know when you did. The third bridge will have a pull-off spot where you can camp on the river, but it’s almost always taken. Don’t worry, there will be more as you go.
Best Camping Spots
All the camping spots along Deerfield River here are free, so it’s just a matter of choosing the right ones. The best one is the one by the third bridge, which is like finding a $100 bill on the ground. However, feel free to stop here and dry camp, which we’ve done on other spots along the river multiple times without problems, but someone may ask you to move.
As a last resort, you can continue heading north on the road and bearing right. You will then see a left turn for “Somerset Airfield”, which you will take. Here, you will find free camping spots with firepits, but they are all close together. If you’re okay with that, there are almost always open spots available here!
Honest Review of Camping at Deerfield River
This is a beautiful place with a lot to offer. There are moderate hiking trails, beautiful woods, and amazing scenery all around. As always, there really isn’t a “bad place” to visit in Vermont.
Deerfield River is fairly loud, so try camping near it if you enjoy the white noise. If not, the Airfield should be a lot quieter for you.
One time, we camped on a rocky “peninsula” going into the river, and we brought our two cats with us. We thought we were weird until a woman pulled up next to us with her cats, asking for directions!
Overall, this is a family-friendly, pet-friendly area that is sure to feel as remote as possible! For us, that’s exactly what we’re looking for.
Try Free Camping in Somerset, Vermont!
Now that you know more about the free camping sites in Somerset, Vermont, head over to Deerfield River yourself and enjoy the scenery. Southern Vermont is a great place to get away from it all and maybe enjoy some hiking, so try it out for yourself!
As always, keep reading our blog for our latest reviews of your favorite New England destinations, and share your experiences in the comments below!
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