Backcountry camping sites near Benton, New Hampshire provide access to the White Mountain National Forest's remote wilderness areas at elevations between 2,000-4,300 feet. Most primitive tent camping options require significant hiking distances ranging from 1.5 to 5 miles to access designated sites. Winter camping is possible but requires specialized equipment as snowpack can exceed 4 feet in depth and persist into late March.
What to do
Summit hiking from campsites: Liberty Springs Tentsite serves as an excellent basecamp for accessing Franconia Ridge, located just off the trail with water from a spring (requires filtering). According to one camper, "Located just off of Franconia Ridge, a great basecamp for anyone doing the ridge or a pemi loop... Gets packed on weekends."
Backcountry fishing: Sawyer Pond offers pond fishing opportunities across multiple seasons. A reviewer notes, "I've ice-fished on the pond. Sites are first-come, first-serve with a tent platform and fire pit. Plan to hang your food due to bears."
Watch mountain sunsets: From Guyot Shelter, hikers can access nearby peaks for sunset views. "We got to the site, claimed our platform and hiked over to West Bond to catch a beautiful sunset," reports one camper. The shelter area has designated platforms with views of surrounding mountains.
Waterfront camping: For tent camping along a scenic pond, try Ethan Pond Shelter. "Beautiful sunset over the pond. Pond can be pretty buggy with black flies, particularly in June, but that's to be expected," warns one camper. The site is accessible via a 3-mile hike from Ripley Falls parking lot.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Many backcountry sites offer raised wooden platforms that keep tents dry. At Ethan Pond Shelter, "There are several tent platforms (2 larger ones for groups and a few smaller ones for smaller parties) as well as the shelter itself."
Bear protection systems: Campers appreciate the dedicated food storage options. "Bear boxes are right next to the cooking area for overnight use," notes one visitor to Garfield Ridge Campsite, which has a "Large eating area. Great water source. Clean privy."
Star viewing opportunities: The best tent camping near Benton offers exceptional night skies. A Sawyer Pond camper shares, "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."
Private tent sites: Some areas offer more secluded camping. "There are some overflow sites that are more private, which I wish we knew about!" mentions one Guyot Shelter visitor, while another notes, "Despite being so remote, one of the busiest back country camps in the Whites."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Natural springs provide water sources at most sites but require treatment. "Water is pump-able at the intersection to the tent-sites," explains a Garfield Ridge reviewer, while at Guyot, "Great Water source right near the eating area."
No cell service: Most backcountry sites have no connectivity. At Rogers Ledge, expect "no signs of society (airplanes/cars/phone service)." Access requires "a 3.5 to 5 mile hike in depending on the direction you come."
Fire restrictions apply: Many backcountry sites prohibit open fires. At Sawyer Pond, "There was very little available firewood near the campsites," reports a camper, while high-elevation sites typically ban fires completely due to environmental concerns.
Tent platforms require adaptation: Non-freestanding tents can be difficult to set up. "No space for non-free standing tents. Quite a hike dropping down from the main trail to the campsite, 15-20 min straight up to hike out in the morning," warns a Guyot Shelter visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Choose shorter approach trails: For family tent camping near Benton, Sawyer Pond offers a manageable hike for children. "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," shares a reviewer.
Look for sites with amenities: Some backcountry sites have basic facilities. "The facilities here were great. There is a full bathhouse with individual rooms for showers and sink/toilets, with running water," explains a visitor to Baker Rocks, one of the few sites with such amenities.
Have backup camping plans: 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," advises a Sawyer Pond camper who "witnessed several parties, many with young children, arriving late to find that all the sites were occupied."
Avoid peak bug season: Black flies can be intense in early summer. "Pond can be pretty buggy with black flies, particularly in June, but that's to be expected," notes an Ethan Pond visitor. Late summer or fall camping may offer a more comfortable experience for children.
Tips from RVers
Use primitive sites as day trip destinations: While most best tent camping near Benton requires hiking in, RVers can stay at established campgrounds and day-hike to scenic areas. The proximity of Baker Rocks to the Baker River makes it "a host of different camping options onsite including tent platforms, yurts, and cabins."
Overflow parking considerations: During peak season, trailhead parking for backcountry sites fills early. A Rogers Ledge visitor recommends, "We parked at the Berlin Fish Hatchery and walked in via the Milbrook Trail," showing alternative parking exists for popular backcountry access points.
Climate preparation: Weather conditions change rapidly and RVers making day trips should come prepared. A visitor to Kinsman Pond Shelter notes, "The hike in isnt easy especially considering you'll need to carry all your gear in to stay," making day hiking from an RV base a practical alternative.
