Dispersed camping near Gilford, New Hampshire provides access to the eastern section of the White Mountain National Forest where elevations range from 500 to over 4,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-85°F during the day, while dropping to 45-60°F at night. Most dispersed camping areas remain accessible from late May through October, with closures during mud season in early spring when forest roads become impassable.
What to do
Hiking to mountain summits: The Osceola trail near Tripoli Road offers moderate hiking with strategic timing advice. "Hiking in the region include the Osceolas (moderate hike with beautiful views, exceedingly popular and crowded on autumn weekends - get there early!)," notes Jean C. Shorter options include "Welch-Dickey (great open ledges) and Snow's Mountain (along a river with falls)."
Water activities: Rivers near dispersed sites provide cooling recreation during summer months. According to Laura, "The Pemigewassett offers tubing and kayaking put ins. Outfitters one exit south can provide you with transportation and rentals." At Guyot Shelter, the water source is conveniently located "right near the eating area," as Jerome S. points out.
Wildlife observation: The White Mountain region hosts diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Greg L. notes that at Haystack Road, "wildlife like bear and moose will visit you at night. It's almost a certainty." Bring binoculars and observe from a safe distance, especially near water sources at dawn and dusk.
What campers like
Remote riverside sites: Many campers appreciate the water access at Town Hall Road Dispersed sites. Erin H. describes: "We drove down the road a bit, past a few tent sites just off the road. About the fifth one or so, you pull in and the fire pit is right there. Then walk down a bit and there's a large group site with another pit. Down toward the river there was plenty of open space."
Secluded platforms: Backcountry camping options provide more isolation. At Guyot Shelter, Hollie G. notes: "There are some overflow sites that are more private, which I wish we knew about!" The area features "wooden platforms and a three-sided cabin (fills up quickly) at 4360 ft."
Site spacing: Dispersed camping areas typically offer better separation between campers. Laura M. describes Town Hall Road as having "many designated dispersed sites, all far apart from each other and all varying in levelness and size." She adds that "the road is dirt, but it's hard packed and smooth, with a few dips and holes here and there."
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Wildlife encounters require preparation at all dispersed sites. At Haystack Road, Greg L. advises: "Keep your food locked in a bear tight container." Similarly, Ali B. reports at Tripoli Road: "Didn't see any [bears] but saw plenty of evidence."
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites requires navigating unpaved roads. At Elbow Pond, Dom L. warns: "The road in is pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars." Laura M. notes Town Hall Road is better: "The road is dirt, but it's hard packed and smooth, with a few dips and holes here and there."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites offer minimal facilities. Asher K. explains that at Guyot Shelter: "There is a small stream to pump water from but it is seasonal." Similarly, Dom L. notes at Elbow Pond: "Some of the camping spots have fire pits but not all."
Tips for camping with families
Midweek arrival: For better site selection with children, plan weekday visits. Ali B. advises: "Great spot for the weekdays, hardly anyone around and got a great site right by the river (mid-sept.). We left on a Friday morning and a lot more people were coming in."
Stream exploration: Water features provide natural play areas for children. At Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site, "There's a nice pond with great views and good fishing," according to Dom L. Similarly, Erin H. notes at Town Hall Road: "If you cross and go through the woods to the right there's some great spots to explore further!"
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly, requiring extra clothing layers. Rowan E. shares: "It was a great place for Rainy Camping. We went during a pouring rain storm and our site remained relatively dry. We even enjoyed a small fire the next day."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed areas accommodate smaller RVs only. Laura M. explains at Town Hall Road: "We got lucky and snagged a perfect spot 2 miles in from the entrance sign - completely level (didn't even need our leveling blocks) and big enough for our 26ft class c. Each site is different, but there were plenty that could fit a medium sized RV like ours. I wouldn't recommend a giant 5th wheel or class A to come here looking for a spot."
Limited turnaround space: Forest roads pose challenges for larger vehicles. Kevin C. shares an Elbow Pond experience: "Had to back my trailer about a quarter mile, so they could get out. Camped in a very small spot, just barely enough room for our SUV and small teardrop to get off the road."
Power considerations: Solar limitations exist in heavily wooded areas. Laura M. notes: "Heavily wooded area, so it's not so great for solar panels and probably not starlink either (we don't have starlink so I can't report on that)."
