Tripoli Road offers dispersed camping options approximately 45 miles northwest of Franklin, New Hampshire. The seasonal forest road traverses the southwestern portion of White Mountain National Forest, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 feet. Weather conditions vary significantly throughout the camping season, with nighttime temperatures often dropping below 50°F even in summer months.
What to do
Hiking to remote summits: From Guyot Shelter, backpackers can access multiple peaks along the Pemi Loop. "We got to the site, claimed our platform and hiked over to West Bond to catch a beautiful sunset," shares Hollie G., who notes the shelter sits at 4,360 feet elevation.
River activities: The Pemigewassett River provides excellent opportunities for summer recreation. "Great spot to start getting into camping with less amenities and more outdoors. Drive up the dirt road and find a nice riverside camp site," notes Joseph A. about camping along Tripoli Road.
Fishing access: Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site provides direct access to fishing opportunities. According to Dom L., "Theres a nice pond with great views and good fishing." The pond contains native brook trout and is accessible via rough forest roads.
What campers like
Remote setting: Dispersed sites along Tripoli Road offer varying levels of seclusion. Ryan M. describes the experience as "pretty remote. Choose your own site. Some are better than others, some have streams going thru them. Lots of local hiking."
Bear box availability: Guyot Shelter provides critical safety features for backcountry campers. Jerome S. notes the site has "x3 bear boxes" and a "great water source right near the eating area," making food storage more convenient during overnight stays.
Weekday solitude: For campers seeking quieter experiences, timing is important. Ali B. reports, "Great spot for the weekdays, hardly anyone around and got a great site right by the river (mid-sept.)." She also observed that "a lot more people were coming in" as the weekend approached.
What you should know
Bear activity concerns: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation when camping in this region. Jean C. warns that "bears are in the area" and notes that following a July holiday weekend, "the camping area was closed after bears visited campsites and got into food that was left in the open and not secured in vehicles or bear canisters."
Vehicle limitations: Access to Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site requires appropriate transportation. Dom L. cautions that "the road in is pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars." Similarly, Kevin C. describes having to navigate dry wash areas that challenged even 4WD vehicles.
Campsite registration: Most dispersed camping areas require registration despite their primitive nature. Beau B. explains that along Tripoli Road there are "several areas on the road labeled as 'no parking' just watch the signs," indicating the importance of following posted regulations.
Tips for camping with families
Platform camping options: At backcountry sites like Guyot Shelter, families can utilize wooden platforms. Asher K. explains, "We actually stayed on one of the wood platforms since the hut was already full. It is a great site and worth staying at to see all the peaks in the area."
Water access planning: Water sources vary significantly between sites. Sean F. notes that Guyot "has a nice shelter, spring, privy, platforms," but warns it's "despite being so remote, one of the busiest back country camps in the Whites."
Noise considerations: When selecting sites, consider proximity to other campers. Kat B. observes about Tripoli Road that "spots are well maintained" but "the road can be irritating/cars kick up dust as they drive by," which could affect children's sleep quality.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: When bringing trailers or RVs to dispersed sites, carefully evaluate space limitations. Kevin C. shares his experience: "Camped in a very small spot, just barely enough room for our SUV and small teardrop to get off the road," noting the "20 foot by 12 foot space to camp in" at Elbow Pond.
Seasonal access limitations: Free camping near Franklin, New Hampshire often has weather-related closures. Laura notes about Tripoli Road sites: "Would call this a solid car camp spot" but recommends camping "a little further in" from the road for a better experience.
