Dispersed camping near Alton, New Hampshire offers access to the eastern slopes of the White Mountains, with elevations ranging from 500 to 2,000 feet across various sites. The camping season typically runs from May through October, though some sites close earlier depending on weather and wildlife activity. Most locations feature mixed hardwood forests with maple, birch, and beech trees providing natural shade and fall color.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Tripoli Road dispersed camping provides access to several fishing spots. "Great hiking trails directly off Tripoli. Hiking the loop trail is amazing," notes Joseph A., who also mentions the nearby river access at numerous sites.
River exploration: Town Hall Road sites feature easy water access for wading and swimming. "Down toward the river there was plenty of open space so we pitched there and built a fire pit. There are trout in the river and if you cross and go through the woods to the right there's some great spots to explore further," explains Erin H.
Hiking nearby peaks: The Tripoli Road area connects to several notable trail systems. "Easy access to trailhead for Tecumseh Mountain. Rustic sites with no water or electric," reports Beau B. The road provides strategic positioning for hikers looking to access multiple trails without relocating camp.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Town Hall Road Dispersed offers well-spaced camping spots. "Sites were on a dirt road, but it was quiet for the most part. Sites were also a good distance from each other so it felt pretty private," shares Josie W., who stayed at multiple sites during her visit.
River proximity: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites. "We loved this spot. There were plenty of sites to choose from and most (not all) had access to the river as well as a fire ring," continues Josie W. about Town Hall Road.
Weather resilience: Some sites drain well even during inclement weather. "It was a great place for Rainy Camping. We went during a pouring rain storm and our site remained relatively dry. We even enjoyed a small fire the next day," explains Rowan E. about camping at Town Hall Road during wet conditions.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site requires higher-clearance vehicles. "The road in is pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars," warns Dom L. This contrasts with Town Hall Road, which is generally more accessible.
Navigation challenges: Finding the correct entrance can be tricky. "GPS initially took me on the wrong road - make sure you stay on Town Hall Rd no matter what the GPS says," advises Mark M., who eventually found numerous pull-outs for camping after passing residential areas.
Site variability: The quality and size of sites fluctuate significantly. "Camped in a very small spot, just barely enough room for our SUV and small teardrop to get off the road. There was only a 20 foot by 12 foot space to camp in," reports Kevin C. about Elbow Pond.
Tips for camping with families
Space for group activities: Some locations feature larger gathering areas. "We drove down the road a bit, past a few tent sites just off the road. About the fifth one or so, you pull in and the fire pit is right there. Then walk down a bit and there's a large group site with another pit," describes Erin H. at Town Hall Road.
Weekday timing: For a quieter experience with children, consider non-peak times. "Great spot for the weekdays, hardly anyone around and got a great site right by the river (mid-sept.). We left on a Friday morning and a lot more people were coming in," advises Ali B. about Tripoli Road.
Fishing for kids: Some sites provide accessible fishing opportunities. "Theres a nice pond with great views and good fishing," notes Dom L. about Elbow Pond, making it suitable for introducing children to fishing in a relaxed setting.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Many dispersed sites require preparation for RV parking. "We got lucky and snagged a perfect spot 2 miles in from the entrance sign- completely level (didn't even need our leveling blocks) and big enough for our 26ft class c," shares Laura M. about Tripoli Road.
Size limitations: Most areas accommodate only smaller RVs. "Each site is different, but there were plenty that could fit a medium sized RV like ours. I wouldn't recommend a giant 5th wheel or class A to come here looking for a spot," continues Laura M., providing practical advice about RV constraints.
Road assessments: The road quality impacts RV access significantly. "The road was not as bad as I anticipated. There was room for my Jeep Grand Cherokee towing a squaredrop camper to pass the very few oncoming vehicles we encountered," notes Bob G. about Town Hall Road, though he cautions the site itself was "a little bumpy getting into it."
