Best Tent Camping near Franklin, NH
Tent campsites near Franklin, New Hampshire range from established sites with basic amenities to remote backcountry shelters. Notable locations include Cardigan Campsites, a tent-only campground approximately 10 miles west of Franklin, and the Squam Lakes Association, which maintains several tent camping areas accessible by foot or boat. Baker Rocks provides tent platforms within wooded areas that feel secluded despite being relatively accessible, while Cardigan Skyline Camps offers walk-in tent sites with more primitive conditions.
Most tent campgrounds in the region provide fire rings and designated tent pads or platforms, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Campers at backcountry sites should prepare to filter water from nearby sources, as potable water is limited to more developed campgrounds. Several tent-only areas require permits or reservations, particularly during peak summer months. According to one visitor, "Sites have platforms large enough to accommodate two free standing 2-4 person tents, depending on size and style." Bear activity necessitates proper food storage at many locations, with some sites providing bear boxes while others require campers to hang food supplies from trees.
Areas farther from established campgrounds offer deeper seclusion for tent campers seeking primitive experiences. The Appalachian Trail corridor includes several backcountry shelters and tent sites, with Moose Mountain Backcountry Shelter providing tent camping options along with a three-sided shelter. A visitor commented that despite its proximity to roads, "the campground is quiet" with "multiple rocky beaches" providing access to water. Tent platforms at many sites help minimize impact on fragile forest floor environments while providing level sleeping surfaces. Seasonal considerations affect accessibility, with some higher-elevation tent sites remaining inaccessible until late spring due to snow cover. Early fall brings decreased crowds at most tent campgrounds, offering optimal conditions for campers seeking solitude.
