Tent camping near Bethlehem, New Hampshire provides access to the extensive trail systems of White Mountain National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 4,000+ feet. The region typically experiences a short camping season from late May through mid-October, with nighttime temperatures dropping below 50°F even in summer months. Most backcountry sites have limited cellular coverage, requiring campers to plan navigation and emergency communications in advance.
What to do
Summit sunrise hikes: From Liberty Springs Tentsite, experienced hikers can access Franconia Ridge for dawn views. "Located just off of Franconia Ridge, a great basecamp for anyone doing the ridge or a pemi loop," notes camper Sean F., who recommends arriving weekdays since it "gets packed on weekends."
Waterfall exploration: Multiple cascades dot the region within day-hiking distance of tent sites. At Ethan Pond Shelter, campers can take "a nice spur trail to a water fall to explore on the hike up or down," according to Jen O., who adds the shelter "can fit maybe 12... maybe more if it had to."
Pond swimming: Summer tent campers can cool off in multiple mountain ponds. One visitor to Sawyer Pond reports, "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."
What campers like
Alpine isolation: Many backcountry tent sites offer escape from civilization. Ryan M. describes Kinsman Pond Shelter as providing an "amazing stay, no signs of society (airplanes/cars/phone service)" after a "tough hike in, but worth it for the quiet and secluded location."
Bear management systems: Garfield Ridge Campsite provides "Joe boxes for bear protection" according to Raj T., who appreciates the campsite's "big group size platform as well smaller platform, cooking and dining area, pivy...and sunrise view point."
Winter camping options: Unlike many White Mountain facilities, several tent sites remain accessible year-round. At Sawyer Pond, Jean C. notes "This is open year round and each season offers something different. It's a nice snowshoe hike in winter. I've ice-fished on the pond."
What you should know
Tent platform requirements: Many backcountry sites have wooden platforms only. Sean F. notes about Liberty Springs: "Tent sites are platforms, so make sure to have a free standing tent. There are a couple 'overflow' spots the caretaker may let you stay in if you can't use a platform."
Limited firewood availability: Several sites restrict fires or have depleted nearby wood sources. Hunter P. reports about Sawyer Pond: "there was very little available firewood near the campsites," while at Fourth Iron Campground, Sarah C. notes sites "have picnic tables and fire rings" but "there is no potable water available here."
Seasonal staffing affects fees: Many tent sites have different management during peak months. Sarah C. explains that Ethan Pond has "a kitchen area with a bear box and a privy (not maintained in the off season so a little out of control in early May) tended to by a seasonal AMC caretaker."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Newer tent campers with children should consider shorter approaches. Sawyer Pond "was my introduction to backpacking more than 40 years ago," says Jean C., who recommends it as "family friendly" with "easy access" particularly from Sawyer River Road.
Train awareness: Some accessible camping areas have railway lines nearby. At Fourth Iron Campground, Jean C. warns "you will cross train tracks to reach the campground and they are active tracks, so you'll hear trains."
Multiple site arrangements: Guyot Shelter offers diverse tent options for different family needs. Jerome S. describes it as "a very large campground. With a large shelter renovated in 2019. Approx 10 platform sites. Some are very isolated and some with great views."
Tips for RVers
Dispersed car camping alternatives: For those seeking a transition from RV to tent camping, Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed offers vehicle-accessible sites. Justin P. notes, "There are a string of tent sites on either side of the road with some right up to the intersection with Cherry Mountain trail. A few were small and could just fit a tent and a car, where some offered more space."
Solar access considerations: Some forest tent sites allow partial charging capability. Kevin C. reports about Cherry Mountain Road site #9: "We were able to collect sunlight onto our solar panel from the site," adding "the site was open to the sky near the road yet protected from the wind."
Road access variations: Forest roads to tent camping areas vary in condition. Kevin C. describes Cherry Mountain Road sites as "not a decent unpaved road and our campsite was only about 3 miles from the highway," making them more accessible than deeper backcountry options requiring extended hiking.
