Tent camping near Gorham, New Hampshire offers direct access to areas like the Wild River Wilderness, which spans both New Hampshire and Maine with multiple access points. Situated at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet, these backcountry sites experience temperature drops averaging 15-20°F lower than valley locations, requiring campers to prepare for overnight temperatures that can dip below freezing even in summer months. Several dispersed camping options exist along forest roads and trails with varying degrees of accessibility.
What to do
Hike to mountaintop views: Near the Nauman Tentsite, campers can access multiple peaks with relatively moderate effort. "Tentsite is 0.8 from the summit of mount Pierce and 1.6 from mount Jackson summit, so great base camp location," notes reviewer Jen O. The site serves as an excellent hub for day hikes.
Explore waterfall trails: Within a short distance of many campsites, water features provide natural attractions. At Blue Brook Tent Site, "There is a cool slab waterfall a short down hill walk from the campsite. There are a few social trails leading down to it. We enjoyed hanging out and cooling off in the cold water," reports Sarah C.
Wildlife watching: The White Mountain region hosts diverse wildlife populations accessible from camping areas. At Hermit Lake Shelters, one camper observed "tons of wildlife around, from birds to red squirrels to moose, who often go for a dip in the lake." Early morning and dusk provide optimal viewing times for larger mammals.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road earns praise for its privacy. Amanda B. notes, "8 huge, beautiful campsites in the heavily wooded Evans Notch section of The White Mountains National Forest. It's easy to forget there are other people camping on other sites because they're so far apart."
Water proximity: Many campers appreciate sites with natural water sources nearby. Jason R. mentions that at Little Larry Road, "Creek runs through road near sites good for getting water to filter or washing." This natural amenity adds practical value for backcountry campers.
Bear protection systems: Campers consistently mention bear management facilities as important features. At Hermit Lake Shelters, Sable W. points out "There is also a bear locker near the tent platforms! When I called Pinkham Notch (twice), they weren't sure if there was a bear locker, so I hiked in a bear can, but there was in fact a locker."
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Many camping areas near Gorham feature sloped terrain requiring careful tent placement. At Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed, Kevin C. reports "Site #9 goes back about 70 to 80 feet back off the road... Just past the boulders is a large fire circle with room for 6 to 8 campers to sit around the fire."
Water treatment needs: Natural water sources require proper filtering. At Blue Brook Tent Site, Sarah C. advises that "Bears are an issue so be sure to hang your food and toiletries. There is a perfect bear hang tree near the fire pit."
Road access limitations: Some sites have challenging access roads that may restrict vehicle types. At Hogan Road Pulloff near Appalachian Trail, Dominique F. reports, "About 1km (.6 miles) of gravel road, easy enough for a big road bike, but don't go any further as it gets rough."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with younger children, selecting sites with manageable hiking distances prevents exhaustion. One reviewer at Nauman Tentsite shares, "This is a beautiful camping area with several tent platforms, in the white mountains. It is an easy 3 mile hike for an adult, I did it with my 5 year old in tow."
Pack entertainment options: Without developed facilities, bringing simple games or exploration activities helps keep children engaged. One camper at The Bluff- Great Gulf Wilderness mentions "The hike in from route 16 is relatively easy with an uphill trend. Toward the end the trail is the steepest but it's a short climb and worth the effort."
Plan for wildlife education: The presence of wildlife creates educational opportunities. Sarah explains that at Wild River Wilderness Area, "There is plenty of 'dispersed' (aka bush crashing) available in the Wild River Wilderness. Just keep in mind that some areas are not open to camping, mainly Forest Protection Areas."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Most backcountry sites near Gorham cannot accommodate standard RVs. Cherry Mountain Road has "a string of tent sites on either side of the road...A few were small and could just fit a tent and a car, where some offered more space," according to Justin P.
Solar considerations: For campers using portable power, some sites offer better solar exposure. Kevin C. notes of Cherry Mountain Road, "We were able to collect sunlight onto our solar panel from the site," making it suitable for those requiring minimal power generation.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs dramatically between sites. At White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road, Robert B. reported, "Even had a cell signal that gave data with a weboost," while other sites have no service at all.
