Dispersed camping sites near Hanover, New Hampshire cluster within Green Mountain and White Mountain National Forests. Most locations sit between 800-2,500 feet elevation with forest roads typically open May through October depending on snow conditions. Winter closures affect most sites, and spring mud season often creates impassable conditions on forest service roads throughout April and early May even when barriers aren't present.
What to do
**Fishing opportunities: At Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site, campers enjoy a small pond with "good fishing" according to a recent visitor. The site offers both waterfront camping and fishing access with relatively easy proximity to other recreation areas.
River wading and swimming spots: The Austin Brook area features natural pools and calm areas for water activities. "Just south of Warren Falls trail head and parking lot and just north of Green Mountains National Forest Road #25, is a small (4-5 sites, 3 picnic tables) camping and parking area wedged between the Mad River and Vermont Route 100," notes a camper.
Backcountry exploration: Guyot Shelter serves as an excellent basecamp for peak hiking. "We got to the site, claimed our platform and hiked over to West Bond to catch a beautiful sunset," writes one camper. The shelter sits at 4,360 feet elevation, offering access to multiple peaks in a single day.
What campers like
Waterside camping: Many dispersed sites feature proximity to streams or rivers. At Patterson Brookside camp, "There are a handful of sites to camp at along the river here, each offering a slightly different experience. The dirt road along the river is an easy drive, though it is single lane in a few locations."
Off-grid seclusion: Campers appreciate the true wilderness experience at these primitive sites. At Michigan Brook, campers note the area's remoteness: "Love this site! The very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site! Keep it clean!"
Mountain views: The elevated campsites at Green Mountain National Forest provide panoramic vistas. "In the first large meadow, multiple fire rings / sites. Able to see sunrise/sunset/moonrise over the surrounding rolling hills and crests," writes one visitor about the FR207 area.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping areas have rough access roads. About Green Mountain National Forest FR25, a camper notes: "small number of sites and a bit hard to find." Another warns of theft concerns: "Beautiful sites on the River but with the wet summer, we just couldn't dry out. Make sure to lock you valuables. Our Jackery, Solar panels & toilet were stolen."
No amenities: Most sites have only fire rings. A visitor to On the Hill Dispersed Camp states: "I've camped here a few times, it a nice size primitive site for a small group. Being a primitive site, expect that it is a little rough to get into. The only thing you will find in this clearing is a fire ring."
Limited availability: Free camping near Hanover fills quickly in peak season. "We were here on a Friday & Saturday nights. Friday night had the whole place to ourselves. Saturday night all spots filled," reports a camper about Forest Road 25.
Tips for camping with families
Choose more developed dispersed areas: For families wanting free camping in the Hanover area with minimal facilities, consider Texas Falls Primitive campsites: "Past the gate at the end of the Texas Falls recreation area we found several sites with only a fire pit along the brook...Relatively short walk to waterless toilets was welcome."
Waterside camping with kids: Sites near streams provide natural entertainment. "Gorgeous rock river," mentions a camper at Patterson Brookside camp, while another notes the area has "quite a few sites along the road."
Limited cell service: Be prepared for disconnection at most sites. At Patterson Brookside camp, a visitor reports: "There is no electricity, no cell coverage, not outhouses in this area. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring in."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most dispersed camping sites near Hanover cannot accommodate large RVs. At Elbow Pond, a camper with a small trailer reported: "Camped in a very small spot, just barely enough room for our SUV and small teardrop to get off the road."
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "There was only a 20 foot by 12 foot space to camp in with no water, no dumpster, no toilet, no view of anything," notes an RV camper at Elbow Pond.
Access considerations: For RV camping near Hanover, scout locations first. "The road into the site was scenic and beautiful. We followed the river all the way to the very end of the road up on the mountain...Also, make sure your car has a bit of clearance as some sports have dips in the ground," advises a visitor regarding Green Mountain National Forest roads.
