Tent camping options near Grafton, New Hampshire range from primitive backcountry sites to more accessible established campgrounds within 20 miles of town. The region sits at the edge of the White Mountains with elevations between 800-3,000 feet, creating varied camping microclimates. Most campgrounds close between late October and early May due to seasonal weather conditions and frozen water systems.
What to do
Climb Mount Cardigan: From Cardigan Campsites, access a moderately challenging 3-mile round-trip hike to the summit with a historic fire tower. "Great spot to spend the night before a climb of Mt. Cardigan! Or after! The climb is challenging but shouldn't take too long. Great fire tower views at the top too!" notes Madison G.
Rock climbing at Rumney: AAC Rattlesnake Campground serves as a base camp for climbers heading to the internationally known Rumney cliffs. "I started climbing at Rumney about a decade before this campground was developed, and man, were we overdue for one! Maintained by the American Alpine Club, pretty much all the campers here are rock climbers," reports Les R.
Kayaking on Squam Lake: Squam Lakes Association maintains boat-in campsites that require paddling to reach. "Simple, but gorgeous. The association maintains about a dozen campsites in the Squam Lake area -- some hike-in and others boat-in only. There are some with tent platforms and all have fire rings (camping fee includes 1 bundle of firewood)," explains Shari G.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Baker Rocks offers secluded tent platforms within a forested setting. "The tent sites are within the wooded area around the property and felt very secluded. There was a bit of road noise overnight," reports Justin P., who appreciated the thoughtful site design.
Double-decker shelter options: The AT shelters provide unique sleeping arrangements. "The shelter had a ground floor and a loft but each floor could maybe fit 4-5 people comfortably. The loft was nice since folks could decide to sleep up there while others were down below, either cooking, arriving, or departing," notes Justin P. about Happy Hill Backcountry Shelter.
Riverside relaxation: Campers appreciate water access at several sites. "Around the campground there was a little beach along the Baker river. I only caught a few minnows when fishing but that may have been more to do with the angler. Along another bend of the river were two chairs for taking in the scenery," describes Justin P.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Most backcountry campsites have unreliable or seasonal water sources. "There wasn't any water at the source while I was staying here and it looks like a seasonal source," reports Justin P. about Happy Hill Shelter. Pack in water or bring filtration systems even when streams are flowing.
Reservation timing: Velvet Rocks Shelter and other popular sites fill quickly. For Squam Lake sites, "The sites are pricey and fill up quickly when reservations open for the year on Feb 15, but the money supports the conservation of the area via the Squam Lakes Association," advises Shari G.
Campfire regulations: Fire policies vary significantly between sites. Most AT shelters prohibit fires, while established campgrounds have designated fire rings. At Baker Rocks, sites include "a fire ring (with a free bundle of firewood), two chairs by the fire ring, and even a few strings of solar lights around the camp area."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For the best tent camping near Grafton, New Hampshire with children, look for campgrounds with consistent facilities. "The facilities here were great. There is a full bathhouse with individual rooms for showers and sink/toilets, with running water," notes Justin P. about Baker Rocks.
Try glamping options: Cardigan Skyline Camps offers alternative accommodations. "Our family of 4 visited Baker Rocks during a very rainy week and still had an amazing time. We stayed 2 nights in the double bell tent with two clean full size beds and a 3rd night in the yurt both were spacious and wonderful, among tall trees and pines," reports April W.
Pack bug protection: "Do bring bug spray, the mosquitoes at certain times of day were aggressive, as to be expected," warns April W. Insect activity is highest in June and July, especially near water sources and during evening hours.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping near Grafton caters to tent campers or small trailers under 25 feet. No sites offer full hookups, and most have limited or no facilities for larger rigs.
Staff assistance: While amenities may be basic, campground hosts can enhance your stay. "Check-in was super easy with the camp hosts who were very flexible with timing and wanted to make sure I had a great stay. The property and individual sites are deliberately designed with guests in mind," notes Justin P.
Consider drive time: Most tent sites require significant hiking from parking areas. For RVers preferring to stay connected to their vehicle, Baker Rocks offers some drive-in tent sites that accommodate small trailers while maintaining a natural camping experience.
