Tent campsites near Belmont, New Hampshire range from secluded woodland settings to more established camping areas with basic amenities. The region sits between Lakes Winnipesaukee and Winnisquam at approximately 500 feet elevation, experiencing warm summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most primitive camping options in this region require visitors to pack out their trash and come prepared with water filtration systems or enough drinking water for their stay.
What to do
Hiking to spectacular views: Sawyer Pond offers tent campers access to both scenic camping and trail options. "The trail head is located at the end of a 9 mile road and there are several spots for parking," notes visitor Hunter P., who adds the hiking trail is "mostly flat with a few minor hills" making it accessible for various ability levels.
Rock climbing access: AAC Rattlesnake Campground provides tent campers with convenient lodging near popular climbing destinations. "Maintained by the American Alpine Club, pretty much all the campers here are rock climbers," reports Les R., who appreciated having dedicated camping near Rumney climbing areas.
Water activities: Tent camping locations around the Belmont area provide access to fishing, kayaking, and swimming opportunities. At Squam Lakes Association, camper Jen S. reported, "We really enjoyed our stay here - we prefer tent camping and like to be secluded; we are not into RV parks. This was fantastic. Beautiful trails, excellent kayaking, quiet and serene."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many primitive tent sites around Belmont offer privacy that RV parks cannot. At Baker Rocks, a visitor noted, "The tent sites are within the wooded area around the property and felt very secluded. There was a bit of road noise overnight."
Shelter options: Some tent camping areas feature unique structures for campers seeking alternatives to standard tent platforms. At Sawyer Pond, Ryan M. reported, "Probably one of my favorite nights out, stayed in the open air shelter. No one else was there. Waist deep snow made hike in a little more difficult, post holing every 5th step. Can't beat the view from shelter over Sawyer pond."
Simple amenities: Campgrounds provide different levels of basic facilities. Hunter P. described Sawyer Pond's offerings: "The camping area had 6 sites, 2 toilets, and 1 lean-to. There is a platform to pitch a tent (or 2) on and a fire pit with a grill attachment at each campsite."
What you should know
Firewood availability: At many tent sites near Belmont, gathering firewood can be challenging. At Sawyer Pond, Hunter P. noted "there was very little available firewood near the campsites," while another visitor mentioned "there is plenty of dead and downed wood to have a nice (responsibly small) campfire without cutting down standing trees."
Fire restrictions: Some campgrounds prohibit fires entirely due to local regulations. At Paugus Brook Farm, Justin P. reported that "fires aren't permitted due to area fire restrictions," an important consideration for campers planning evening activities.
Reservation systems: Tent camping options have various booking methods and timelines. Sarah C. warned about Sawyer Pond's popularity: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose appropriate hiking distances: When selecting tent camping with children, consider trail length. Hunter P. described Sawyer Pond as "a 1.5 mile hike from the parking lot to the campsite and pretty easy. It is mostly flat with a few minor hills (I saw children and elderly folks easily using this trail)."
Look for entertainment options: Some family-friendly campgrounds offer activities beyond the campsite. At Salmon Falls River RV Resort, Samantha N. reported, "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!! My niece had so much fun!"
Consider unique accommodations: Alternative camping options can enhance family experiences. April W. shared about Lost Boys Hideout: "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... We stayed 2 nights in the double bell tent with two clean full size beds."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options near climbing areas: Most tent sites near popular outdoor recreation spots lack RV amenities. When visiting AAC Rattlesnake Campground near climbing routes, visitors should know this area primarily serves tent campers, not RV users.
Explore alternatives with amenities: RV campers seeking full hookups can find options slightly farther from Belmont. Aaron G. found Salmon Falls River RV Resort offered necessary services: "Campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs. Have great activities daily for the kids a nice store onsite."
Consider seasonal timing: RVers should check operating schedules before planning trips to campgrounds near Belmont. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally, typically from May through October, with limited winter camping options for RVs.
