Dispersed camping options near Bartlett, New Hampshire provide alternatives to the established resorts. Located in Carroll County with elevations ranging from 700 to 3,000 feet, this area experiences cool summer nights with temperatures often dropping to the mid-50s. The White Mountain National Forest surrounds Bartlett, creating abundant backcountry camping opportunities within a region that receives 70-90 inches of annual snowfall.
What to do
River recreation: Float the Saco River at Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis, which offers tube rentals and river access points. Campers can enjoy both the Ellis and Saco rivers from various points in the campground. "They have tubing in the Saco River, ice cream socials and a food truck," notes a visitor.
Mountain trails: Hike directly from camp at Covered Bridge Campground where trails connect to the campsites. "The campground is clean and well kept. Extra bonus is the Boulder Loop Trail that is attached to the campground(it's relatively short, offers several great vista views, and you can walk there from the campground and not have to deal with parking)," explains one camper.
Winter activities: Experience yurt camping in Bartlett, New Hampshire during snow season. Several private landowners offer yurt accommodations when temperatures drop. While established campgrounds close for winter, backcountry yurts provide shelter for those seeking a unique cold-weather camping experience in the White Mountains.
What campers like
Natural water features: The Swift River access at Eastern Slope Camping Area draws many campers. "The river is right there and you can splash around in it," notes one visitor. Another camper shared, "Great location with easy ride to all North Conway attractions. Nice hay ride and playground. The beach is sandy and lots of room to spread out."
Tent platform camping: Many campers appreciate the raised wooden platforms at Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping for keeping equipment dry. "Amazing views from some of the platforms, easy access to water, friendly park managers," states one backpacker. Another adds, "Great campsite! With a large shelter renovated in 2019. Approx 10 platform sites. Some are very isolated and some with great views."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings and evenings provide chances to spot local wildlife. "Waking up to the sound of the loons in the morning was wonderful," writes a camper about their stay at a lakeside site. Bear sightings, though requiring proper food storage, are considered highlights by many visitors.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Multiple campgrounds report bear activity. At Waterville Campground, one camper noted, "I was sitting in my hammock reading when a black bear cub strolled through my campsite. We scared the poop out of each other. Local police came and said they have been having problems with the bears." Always secure food in approved containers.
Height restrictions: Some campgrounds have covered bridges limiting vehicle access. One camper advised, "Covered bridge has 7.9' height restriction from the main scenic highway. We had to go out to Conway and drive back in." Check route limitations before arriving with tall vehicles.
Weather variability: White Mountain weather changes quickly, with temperature swings of 30+ degrees possible in 24 hours. Pack layers and rain gear even for summer trips. Cell service is extremely limited throughout the region, particularly in valleys and on the Kancamagus Highway.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities for kids: White Lake State Park Campground offers family-friendly swimming. "The lake is clear, the swimming area is shallow for quite a distance so you can feel comfortable with kids, and there is a separate boat launch area. If you don't have your own boats, they offer rentals of kayaks and paddle boats," explains one visitor.
Playground access: Many area campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. One reviewer notes, "This is a wonderful place with lots of trees and sites that are reasonably spaced, if not all that private. There is a nice beach and a trail that goes around the entire small lake."
Book early for weekends: Family-suitable sites fill quickly, especially those with amenities like electricity and water. For yurt camping in Bartlett, New Hampshire, reservations should be made 3-6 months in advance during peak season (July-August) and holiday weekends.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Moose Brook State Park Campground provides some sites with utilities. "Sites have fire rings, picnic tables and nice areas to pitch tents," a camper notes, adding "The sites were large and level." Another mentions, "The sites are large, with a choice of wooded, partially wooded, or open. Sites are level, with the fire ring on the correct side for people with campers."
Narrow access roads: Several campgrounds have challenging entry roads. "Big RV will have trouble maneuvering in here because it is tight," warns one visitor about a local campground. Another notes there's "about a 1/2 mile that is mostly one lane (with a drop off on one side)."
Leveling challenges: Waterfront sites often require extensive leveling. One camper reported needing "a lot more leveling to do. And when I say a lot, I mean my 5" drive on leveling blocks weren't enough and I had to put them on top of a 2x8 to level the camper out."
