The Alexandria area of New Hampshire's White Mountains offers backcountry camping experiences ranging from 500 to 2,900 feet in elevation. Several campgrounds feature platform camping on wooden structures designed to minimize environmental impact while providing stable tent foundations. Water availability remains highly seasonal with most sources drying up during July and August droughts.
What to do
Hike Mt. Cardigan: A 3-mile round trip from Cardigan Campsites to the summit rewards with panoramic views. "The climb is challenging but shouldn't take too long. Great fire tower views at the top too!" notes Madison G.
Fish the Baker River: Baker River access points near Baker Rocks provide opportunities for anglers. "I tent camped here while doing some fishing in the area... I only caught a few minnows when fishing but that may have been more to do with the angler," reports Justin P.
Visit farm animals: Some campgrounds maintain small farm areas. "They even have animals to visit like bunnies and goats (far away from the campsites)," says April W. about her stay at Baker Rocks.
Rock climbing at Rumney: Located near Alexandria, the Rumney climbing area attracts climbers from across New England. "I started climbing at Rumney about a decade before this campground was developed, and man, were we overdue for one!" shares Les R. about AAC Rattlesnake Campground.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many tent camping areas near Alexandria offer seclusion between sites. "The tent sites are within the wooded area around the property and felt very secluded. There was a bit of road noise overnight," notes Justin P. about his Baker Rocks experience.
Water access: Several campgrounds feature river or pond access. "Around the campground there was a little beach along the Baker river... Along another bend of the river were two chairs for taking in the scenery," describes one camper about Baker Rocks.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain nights provide exceptional stargazing. "The pond is gorgeous and the stars were AMAZING. You do have to forage for firewood, which can be rough, but there's a fire pit right in front of the lean to. I've never seen stars like I did here, all around the pond," shares Erin H. about her experience at Sawyer Pond.
Boat-in camping options: For water-based adventures, some nearby lakes offer boat-access campsites. "The association maintains about a dozen campsites in the Squam Lake area -- some hike-in and others boat-in only. There are some with tent platforms and all have fire rings," explains Shari G. about Squam Lakes Association campsites.
What you should know
Water sources are unreliable: Many backcountry campsites have seasonal water sources. "There is a water source in the area but it did not have water when I visited (probably on account of the drought)," notes Justin P. about Trapper John Backcountry Campground.
Bear safety required: Food storage precautions are necessary. "There is one bear hang located just in front of sites 3 and 4 that is large enough to accommodate food from multiple groups. You will need rope to hang your food, however a cable is provided," advises Sarah C. about Sawyer Pond.
Firewood availability varies: Some sites require foraging while others provide wood. "The site had a large tent platform they could fit multiple tents, a brand new picnic table, a fire ring (with a free bundle of firewood), two chairs by the fire ring," reports Justin P. about Baker Rocks.
Campsite popularity: Popular sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Due to the site's popularity, plan accordingly. Have a back-up plan for an alternate camping location. We witnessed several parties, many with young children, arriving late to find that all the sites were occupied," warns Sarah C. about Sawyer Pond.
Tips for camping with families
Start with easier backpacking trips: For families new to backpacking, choose shorter trails. "This is a great beginner backpacking trip, great even for kids! The site has one shelter and 6 campsites available on the bank of Sawyer Pond," recommends Sarah C.
Consider tent platforms for stability: Platforms make tent setup easier with children. "Our family of 4 visited Baker Rocks during a very rainy week and still had an amazing time. The campsites are private and spacious, the property is large and beautiful, close to the river," shares April W.
Check for wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer wildlife education. "The area offers water sports of all kinds, amazing views, spectacular hiking and backpacking in the White Mountains and some cute little villages along the local highways," mentions Shari G. about Squam Lakes.
Pack insect protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic during summer months. "Do bring bug spray, the mosquitoes at certain times of day were aggressive, as to be expected," warns April W. from her Baker Rocks experience.
Tips from RVers
Consider glamping alternatives: For RVers seeking tent camping near Alexandria, New Hampshire who want some comforts, look into yurts and cabins. "Baker Rocks had a host of different camping options onsite including tent platforms, yurts, and cabins... I would definitely stay here again if I'm in the area and might try some of the glamping options as well," suggests Justin P.
Check road conditions: Many camping areas have seasonal road closures. "The easier access is from the Sawyer River Rd, though until the road opens after mud season, it will be a longer hike. Check the White Mountain National Forest website for information about road openings in the spring and fall," advises Jean C.
