Dispersed camping options near Alexandria, New Hampshire primarily cluster around the White Mountain National Forest. The forest encompasses over 750,000 acres with elevations ranging from 1,000 to over 6,000 feet at the summit of Mount Washington. Most free camping areas remain accessible from late May through October, with road conditions and weather determining exact opening and closing dates each year.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Haystack Road sites offer access to the Little River. A camper noted that "Right near a great swimming hole and the twin mountains. It is quiet, the sites are far apart," making it ideal for cooling off after a hike.
Fishing excursions: CherryMountain Rd Dispersed Pull Off sites provide access to nearby streams. While specific fishing reviews aren't available, this lesser-known area typically offers less competition for prime fishing spots compared to more popular campgrounds.
Hiking connections: Guyot Shelter serves as an excellent base for backcountry exploration. One camper described it as having "Great Water source right near the eating area" and noted the "large shelter renovated in 2019" with "Approx 10 platform sites. Some are very isolated and some with great views."
Paddling access: Several dispersed sites provide launching points for kayaks and canoes. At one site, a visitor mentioned that "Fosters Corners just a few miles north has an eclectic selection of essentials as well as gas" for any forgotten supplies needed for water adventures.
What campers like
Riverside locations: Many campers appreciate sites adjacent to flowing water. A reviewer at Haystack Road shared that "the first few sites on the left have a small stream behind them, it'll make your stay a little easier. Bathing, dishes, etc."
Hiking proximity: Haystack Road dispersed sites earned praise for trail access. One camper noted it's "in a frat location for hiking the northern white mountains. very primitive car camping with only a fire pit at the site. as a backpacker this suits me fine."
Solitude potential: For those seeking quieter experiences, timing matters. A visitor to Tripoli Road shared that it's a "Great spot for the weekdays, hardly anyone around and got a great site right by the river (mid-sept.)."
Platform camping: Elevated tent platforms at some sites provide dry, level camping surfaces. At Guyot Shelter, a camper appreciated the "platforms, water source, bear box, food area, cabin, Privy."
What you should know
Bear management: Wildlife encounters are common in the White Mountains. At Haystack Road, a frequent visitor warns "wildlife like bear and moose will visit you at night. it's almost a certainty, keep your food locked in a bear tight container."
Site security concerns: Some campers report theft issues. One camper at Haystack Road shared a warning: "I left out gear to claim a spot while out hiking and came back to people having stolen some of it as well as setting up in that spot."
Road conditions: Access to many free camping areas requires appropriate vehicles. At Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site, a camper advised "I wouldn't recommend trying to take a normal sedan or something down there and the sites are a little less spread out than I wanted."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites provide minimal facilities. A camper at Tripoli Road noted "Rustic sites with no water or electric. We found there to be a couple of large group camping areas but they were spread out enough not to bother each other."
Tips for camping with families
Platform selection: When camping with children, choose appropriate sites. At Guyot Shelter, a camper mentioned "Some are very isolated and some with great views. Privy is a bit of a walk. And the eating area is very small. X3 bear boxes."
Swimming spots: Children often enjoy water access for recreation. Tripoli Road offers swimming options as "hiked down a trail and found the most relaxing spot right by the river!"
Noise considerations: Families should be aware of noise levels. One camper at Elbow Pond Road observed sites that were "a little less spread out than I wanted," which could impact family privacy.
Wildlife education: Use camping as a teaching opportunity about forest inhabitants. A camper noted "Definitely watch out for bears though, didn't see any but saw plenty of evidence" at Tripoli Road sites.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should research space limitations. At Haystack Road, a visitor described "There are 11 options, each completely separated from the others. We were in spot #1 which is nothing at all like the others. It is next to the Highway on a paved fire road."
Access challenges: Many dispersed sites have rough access roads. A visitor to Elbow Pond Road warned "The road in is pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars."
Dry camping preparation: No hookups exist at these sites. One camper at Elbow Pond Road noted it offered "no water, no dumpster, no toilet, no view of anything" requiring complete self-sufficiency.
Group size limitations: Regulations restrict camping group sizes. At Haystack Road, "You may have up to 3 vehicles and 15 people on a site," which affects RV camping with multiple vehicles.
