Tripoli Road dispersed camping is located approximately 15 miles from Holderness, New Hampshire, accessible via seasonal Forest Roads in the White Mountain National Forest. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,200-1,800 feet, offering rustic camping options with varying levels of seclusion. Sites generally open from mid-May through October, depending on seasonal road conditions and wildlife activity.
What to do
Hiking nearby mountains: Several trailheads provide access to less-traveled peaks within 30 minutes of Tripoli Road, where the "hiking in the region include the Osceolas (moderate hike with beautiful views, exceedingly popular and crowded on autumn weekends - get there early!), Tripyramid, and Tecumseh" according to Jean C.
Water activities: The Pemigewasset River offers kayaking and tubing opportunities. Jean C. notes that "The Pemigewassett offers tubing and kayaking put ins. Outfitters one exit south can provide you with transportation and rentals."
Swimming spots: Multiple creeks and small rivers run through the camping areas, with one camper at Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site mentioning "a nice pond with great views and good fishing." Dom L. adds that some sites have "fire pits but not all."
Trail exploration: For backpackers seeking more challenge, trails connect to more remote areas. "An amazing spot. Pretty remote and all the better for it," writes Jen O. about deeper wilderness camping opportunities beyond the dispersed sites.
What campers like
River access sites: Many campers prefer spots near running water. At Town Hall Road Dispersed, one visitor shared, "We found our spot which had some river access and it was gorgeous. It had an above and below spot which hosted our two tents." Erin H. adds that "Down toward the river there was plenty of open space so we pitched there and built a fire pit."
Midweek availability: Most rustic camping options near Holderness see lower usage Monday through Thursday. Ali B. reports about Tripoli Road: "Great spot for the weekdays, hardly anyone around and got a great site right by the river (mid-sept.)."
Group camping flexibility: Several areas accommodate larger gatherings. As Kat B. notes, "spots are well maintained" but advises visitors to "be sure to get up early on Friday for a weekend campout."
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas provide separation between campsites. Mike M. describes Tripoli Road as "True primitive sites. First come first serve. Awesome feel. Cool road. Great access to tripyramid hikes. Somewhat isolated."
What you should know
Bears are common: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation. According to Greg L. at Haystack Road, "wildlife like bear and moose will visit you at night. it's almost a certainty, keep your food locked in a bear tight container."
Road conditions vary: Many access roads require vehicles with adequate clearance. Dom L. warns about Elbow Pond Road: "The road in is pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars."
Limited services: Bring all supplies needed for your stay. Jean C. notes that at Haystack Road, "The only amenity is a fire pit, but the road ends at the Little River, offering fishing and swimming options."
Cell service unreliability: Coverage is spotty throughout the region. One camper mentions, "Do not rely on cell phone trail maps, there is little to no reception trail on the trails. Use a downloadable GPS map like a Gaia GPS, or a Garmin type device."
Tips for camping with families
Stream-side sites: Look for spots with shallow water access for children. At Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed, Aimee L. recommends "site #5 because it was flat, sunny, grassy and had a little brook."
Camp security: Never leave valuable gear unattended. Sean L. cautions from personal experience: "I left out gear to claim a spot while out hiking and came back to people having stolen some of it as well as setting up in that spot."
Best family locations: Some dispersed areas offer more family-friendly amenities. Joseph A. recommends Tripoli Road for beginners: "This is a great spot to start getting into camping with less amenities and more outdoors. I have been going there for 20 years and I still recommend it."
Site selection timing: Arrive early, especially for weekend camping. Kat B. advises: "be sure to get up early on Friday for a weekend campout. But this is by far one of my favorite spots!"
Tips for RVers
Access limitations: Many rustic camping options near Holderness have restricted vehicle access. Nickolas H. notes at Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping that there's a "Step walk in and out though most of the tent platforms have amazing views."
Road width concerns: Forest roads can be narrow with limited passing areas. Bob G. reports about Town Hall Road: "The road was not as bad as I anticipated. There was room for my Jeep Grand Cherokee towing a squaredrop camper to pass the very few oncoming vehicles we encountered."
Site leveling: Many dispersed sites require leveling equipment. Kevin C. found at Cherry Mountain Road: "We stayed one night in campsite 9. This site is about 90 yards from the fire tower trailhead. Site #9 goes back about 70 to 80 feet back off the road."
Solar considerations: Some sites offer better solar exposure than others. Kevin mentions: "We were able to collect sunlight onto our solar panel from the site."
