Tent camping near Hales Location, New Hampshire offers direct access to White Mountain National Forest and several glacial lakes within 15 miles. Situated at approximately 500 feet elevation with surrounding peaks reaching 3,000+ feet, this area experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations between seasons. Summer nights frequently dip below 50°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s, making proper sleeping equipment essential for comfortable overnight stays.
What to do
Swimming at riverside sites: Fourth Iron Campground provides excellent swimming access along the Saco River with multiple rocky beaches between the campsites and water. According to a camper, "The water is clear and cold, refreshing on a warm day," making it perfect for cooling off during summer afternoons.
Wildlife watching: The Milbrook Trail near Rogers Ledge offers excellent moose habitat viewing opportunities. One visitor noted, "We parked at the Berlin Fish Hatchery and walked in via the Milbrook Trail. A gradual climb from the trail head to the campsite through a few boggy areas before climbing into the boreal forest for a bit. Prime moose habitat!"
Star gazing: Sawyer Pond provides exceptional night sky viewing conditions with minimal light pollution. A camper mentioned, "I've never seen stars like I did here, all around the pond. They took my breath away!" The open areas around the pond create a natural observatory for viewing constellations.
What campers like
Easy access to secluded spots: Sawyer Pond offers a relatively simple 1.5-mile hike to reach tent platforms with pond views. A visitor shared, "The hike from the parking lot to the campsite was 1.5 miles and pretty easy. It is mostly flat with a few minor hills (I saw children and elderly folks easily using this trail)."
Private sites: Paugus Brook Farm provides field camping with ample space between sites. One camper reported, "The camping area is a field in the back with fairly level ground and lots of space, and is a very short walk from the designated parking area."
Well-maintained facilities: Squam Lakes Association gets high marks for their clean facilities despite being primitive camping. A recent visitor noted, "The composting toilets were clean" and another mentioned that "There are some with tent platforms and all have fire rings (camping fee includes 1 bundle of firewood)."
What you should know
Weekend crowds: Plan weekday visits when possible or arrive early on weekends. At Sawyer Pond, a camper observed, "I visited this campsite on a Sunday night in September with my dog and it was lovely. I passed a few day hikers but was the only person camping, however I did speak to a family that was hiking down who said that the campground was completely full the night before (Saturday night)."
Limited firewood: Some sites have scarce firewood resources. At Sawyer Pond, one visitor cautioned, "There was very little available firewood near the campsites." Bring a small camp stove as backup for cooking needs.
Water treatment essential: No potable water exists at most sites. Fourth Iron Campground has no drinking water available, with one visitor advising, "There is no potable water available here, so be prepared to treat(filter, boil, chemical, etc.) or carry in enough water for your stay."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Sawyer Pond offers an ideal introduction to backpacking for children. A camper recommended, "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."
Train awareness: Fourth Iron Campground requires crossing active railroad tracks. One visitor noted, "You will cross train tracks to reach the campground and they are active tracks, so you'll hear trains." Ensure children understand train safety when staying at this location.
Pack strategically: When camping at sites requiring short hikes, organize gear efficiently. For Fourth Iron, a camper suggested, "I would suggest packing in a manner that allows you to get your things from your car to the site easily and with the fewest trips possible."
Tips from RVers
Limited options for large rigs: Stagecoach Falls is one of few locations near Hales Location offering big-rig friendly camping with electric hookups including both 30-amp and 50-amp service. With only three sites available, advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Tent/RV combination trips: Many families use Squam Lakes Association as a tent base while keeping RVs at nearby established campgrounds with hookups. This allows for primitive camping experiences while maintaining access to shower facilities and electrical charging at the RV.
Seasonal access considerations: Most RV-accessible sites close between November 1 and May 1. Winter camping is primarily limited to tent sites requiring significant preparation and experience with cold-weather gear.
