Tent camping areas near Campton, New Hampshire offer experiences ranging from established sites with amenities to remote backcountry locations. The region sits at the southern edge of the White Mountains National Forest, with elevations varying from 700 feet in valley areas to over 4,000 feet at alpine campsites. Late spring through early fall brings typical temperatures of 45-80°F, with cooler nights at higher elevations and frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months.
What to do
Sunrise hiking from high-elevation sites: Guyot Shelter provides an excellent base for early morning summit attempts. "We got to the site, claimed our platform and hiked over to West Bond to catch a beautiful sunset," shares one camper, highlighting the stellar views from nearby peaks.
River swimming access: Fourth Iron Campground sits directly on the Saco River with multiple access points. A camper notes, "The water is clear and cold, refreshing on a warm day" with "multiple rocky beaches in between the sites and river."
Winter camping adventures: For cold weather enthusiasts, several sites remain open year-round. "Ive been camping here several times a year with a bunch of guys. We typically go at least once in the summer and once in the dead of winter," reports one Fourth Iron Campground visitor, showing how the area offers distinct seasonal experiences.
Wildlife spotting opportunities: The forests around Campton host diverse wildlife. When hiking to Rogers Ledge, you'll pass through "a few boggy areas before climbing into the boreal forest... Prime moose habitat!" according to an experienced camper.
What campers like
Secluded riverside locations: Many sites offer direct water access. At Fourth Iron Campground, "Sites are situated just off the Sacco River and river access is easy," with "the water is clear and cold, refreshing on a warm day."
Platforms for clean tent setup: Several backcountry sites feature wooden platforms. At Liberty Springs Tentsite, "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."
Bear-safe food storage: Many campsites in the White Mountains provide dedicated bear protection. At Guyot Shelter, there are "bear boxes located at a communal 'cooking area'" according to one reviewer, making food storage more convenient.
Access to extensive trail networks: The best tent camping near Campton, New Hampshire connects directly to major hiking routes. Liberty Springs Tentsite is "Located just off of Franconia Ridge, a great basecamp for anyone doing the ridge or a pemi loop," making it ideal for multi-day hiking expeditions.
What you should know
Walk-in requirements: Several sites require hiking from parking areas. At Sawyer Pond, "The hike from the parking lot to the campsite was 1.5 miles and pretty easy. It is mostly flat with a few minor hills (I saw children and elderly folks easily using this trail)."
Firewood limitations: Finding fuel for campfires can be challenging. One Sawyer Pond camper noted, "there was very little available firewood near the campsites," suggesting you bring your own or forage farther from established sites.
Water treatment necessities: Most backcountry sites lack potable water. At Liberty Springs, "There's a spring for water (still should probably filter it)," and similar situations exist at most remote sites.
Train noise at select sites: Some campgrounds have nearby railroad tracks. At Fourth Iron Campground, "You will cross train tracks to reach the campground and they are active tracks, so you'll hear trains," which might affect light sleepers.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shorter access trails: For camping with younger children, consider accessibility. Sawyer Pond is described as "a great beginner backpacking trip, great even for kids" with an approach that "is mostly flat with a few minor hills."
Look for platforms that accommodate multiple tents: When camping with family groups, space matters. At Sawyer Pond, "Sites have platforms large enough to accommodate two free standing 2-4 person tents, depending on size and style."
Consider glamping options for less experienced campers: Baker Rocks offers alternative accommodations alongside traditional tent sites. "Our family of 4 visited Baker Rocks during a very rainy week and still had an amazing time... We stayed 2 nights in the double bell tent with two clean full size beds and a 3rd night in the yurt."
Plan for variable weather conditions: Mountain weather changes rapidly. At Baker Rocks, even during "a very rainy week" a family "still had an amazing time" by utilizing the sturdier accommodation options, showing weather-resilient planning is important.
Tips from RVers
RV parking is limited at backcountry access points: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Campton have small parking areas. At Fourth Iron, "There is a small parking lot with space for several cars," which may not accommodate larger RVs.
Consider car-camping alternatives: Some sites offer accessible options without RV hookups. At Paugus Brook Farm, "The camping area is a field in the back with fairly level ground and lots of space, and is a very short walk from the designated parking area."
Look for private farms with camping options: Some private properties offer tent camping with more amenities. Paugus Brook Farm features "The outhouse is brand new and super clean and right nearby" while providing a convenient base for exploring the region.
