Tent campsites near Freedom, New Hampshire range from water-adjacent sites along the Saco River to higher-elevation options with views of Mount Chocorua. The camping season typically runs May through October, with some backcountry sites accessible year-round. Winter camping requires additional preparation with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing, while summer nights often cool to 50-60°F even after warm days.
What to do
Hiking from camp: At Camp Penacook Shelter, accessible via a moderate 3-mile trek up the Piper Trail, campers can use the shelter as a basecamp for summit adventures. As one camper noted, "The Camp Penacook Shelter is a nice stopping point on a moderately difficult hike up to the peak of Mt. Chocorua...drop your big packs off in the shelter to mark your spot, and then finish the hike to the top with just your water bottle."
Water activities: Fourth Iron Campground offers direct river access with multiple rocky beaches. A visitor mentioned, "The water is clear and cold, refreshing on a warm day." The campground is a short walk from parking, making it accessible for day trips.
Winter exploration: Sawyer Pond remains open during winter months, offering a different experience. A regular visitor explained, "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 campers like
Easy access sites: For campers wanting minimal hiking, Northern Nursery Brookside Campsites offers 15 tent sites along water with quick access from the parking area. A visitor commented, "There is no running water, only a porta potty but it was great for a place to stay the night while exploring the white mountains."
Lean-to shelter options: Camp Penacook Shelter provides a three-sided structure perfect for those wanting protection without a tent. According to one camper, "This is a 3-sided shelter with a fairly low roof. You could fit one larger tent or two smaller tents, but I highly suggest sleeping in the open air! When I stayed here, there were 7 of us, and we comfortably laid side by side with our packs tucked against the back wall."
Stargazing opportunities: The darkness of the White Mountain nights creates exceptional stargazing. At Sawyer Pond, one camper shared their experience: "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. I've never seen stars like I did here, all around the pond. They took my breath away!"
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Fourth Iron Campground and other sites in the region require proper food storage. As one camper observed, "This is bear country, so bear boxes are provided. You will cross train tracks to reach the campground and they are active tracks, so you'll hear trains."
Water considerations: No potable water exists at most primitive sites. For Fourth Iron Campground, a camper advised, "There is no potable water available here, so be prepared to treat (filter, boil, chemical, etc.) or carry in enough water for your stay."
Weekend crowding: Popular sites fill quickly, especially Sawyer Pond. One camper warned, "Due to the site's popularity, plan accordingly. Have a back-up plan for an alternate camping location (beyond the posted Forest Protection Area). We witnessed several parties, many with young children, arriving late to find that all the sites were occupied."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Sawyer Pond works well for families new to backpacking. A camper observed, "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. You can reach the backcountry campsites via a 1.5 mile walk from the Sawyer Pond Trail Head off of NH highway 302."
Safety precautions: At Camp Penacook, know the terrain before bringing children. A regular visitor noted, "Back towards the main piper trail is a brook where you can pump water if you have a filter. It can be hard to determine where the bank is if there's still snow on the ground, so be careful!"
Entertainment planning: At Saco Old Orchard Beach KOA, families find numerous activities. A camper shared, "Amenities include a heated pool, hot tub (adults only), basketball, volleyball, playground, and various activities like s'mores, crafts, ice cream socials and more. This campground is very kid-friendly."
Tips for RVers
Site capacity limitations: Most tent sites near Freedom cannot accommodate RVs. For RV camping, Saco Old Orchard Beach KOA provides better options about 40 miles away. One visitor explained, "The campground sits among tall pine trees which offer nice shade helps alleviate some of the feel of a crowded campground. There are a myriad of sites including rustic tent, cabins, and full hook-up RV sites that accommodate the largest of RVs."
Alternative accommodations: For those who prefer not to tent camp but don't have an RV, cabin options exist. As one KOA visitor described, "K16 was a single room cabin that could comfortably sleep 4, furnished with a full-sized bed and a bunk bed. We were shocked to find that the cabin had electrical, lights and a small heater."
Seasonal considerations: Check operating dates before planning trips. Saco Old Orchard Beach KOA operates May 1 to October 15, while many primitive sites have no formal season but become difficult to access in winter without proper equipment and experience.
